First Step Modelling: How to Become Successful in a Competitive Market
Although the process of becoming a model seems relatively simple; you submit your photos to a modelling scout or agency and if they like you, you get signed, pay a fee and start your career, it really isn’t as easy as that. There are thousands of women, men and children who aspire to become models and without the hard work and dedication that modelling requires, it’s going to be extremely difficult to become successful. There are many routes that one can take to get into modelling, but knowing ahead of time that it can be: dangerous, it is competitive and it is hard will help you in the long run. You may be told that you have to be a certain height or weight to become a model, but this isn’t true necessarily. You just need to know what the odds are for the market that you want to get into. So, if the above hasn’t deterred you, then here are several tips from First Step Modelling on how to become successful and well paid in the modelling industry.
• Know the Odds of the Market: If you don’t look like a runway model (above 5’7” in height) then don’t worry about it. There are plenty of other markets out there that you may have better odds in. For instance, a model of 5’5” may be better off doing commercial outlet modeling for cosmetics, or magazine ads. Look at who you are and figure out what is needed in the area you live as that is your market. Once you have figured that out, go for what is needed. If you know your odds, you’re more likely to get in!
• Excellent Headshot: Get a natural headshot taken of you from a professional photographer. Very little makeup, no Photoshop, no re-touching, simple hair and no overdone looks. Literally get your most natural look photographed as this really shows off your potential.
• Practice: Agencies are super busy so it’s unlikely you will get a meet and greet as soon as you walk in the door. Take this time to learn how to stay casual. Practice your confident walk as a fake aura will only get you the exit.
• Be Aware: Do not sacrifice your morals, your integrity or your beliefs! It is a cut-throat industry at times but be aware that you may need to be on set for 12+ hours a day and that the photograph will always take precedence over your needs. You will go up against a lot of aspects that may make you uncomfortable and being aware of them ahead of time helps!
• Know Your Market: This is extremely important for becoming successful. Depending on where you live, you will have different trends. For instance, a big city might want more glamour whereas a smaller suburb may be looking for a more natural looking model. You will need to fit the market that you want to get into. If you live in a city, then go for that sleek, sexy and trendy look. Know if you are auditioning for certain clothing trends, or be aware of certain cosmetic companies in the area. Knowing your market and where you fit comes with research and practice.
• Find a Top Agency: If you find yourself needing to pay upfront or there are ‘weird’ terms for signing, then you know you haven’t found a top agency. Instead,First Step Modeling suggests doing research for your area and take a look to see if the agency you are looking at is on the Better Business Bureau’s website. A proper agency like firststepmodelling.com will never put you into a compromised situation and will understand that you have personal needs.
• Invest in You: Eat right, exercise correctly and keep yourself at the top of the health charts. Investing in your health will keep you looking slim and trim. Plus, you should invest your earnings into yourself. Never spend your money all at once and since the modeling industry pays in lump sums, you are going to want to invest it. You never know where or when the next job will come from so saving your money and investing it for the future is how you make sure you keep paying yourself well. If you’re looking to get paid well, look at commercial jobs! They are more plentiful and they come in a wide range of options in terms of market availability.
• Learn Related Disciplines: For instance, if you’re going to be a successful model then you’re going to need to know how to walk and stand in various heel sizes comfortably. You are going to need to know how to apply your own makeup and how to pose. Learn these before applying and it will give you a higher success rate!
Finally, it doesn’t hurt to look at the reviews of agencies that you may be looking to work with. For instance, First Step Modelling reviews are listed on their website and are easily viewed by the public. Know what type of agency you are looking at and if you know someone who has connections, use them! It may get you a meet and greet, a photo shoot, or a look at your profile.




No comments:
Post a Comment