How to begin a modeling career?

Ever imagined yourself draped in the shimmery, glittery cosmos filled with myriad hues and silken fabrics. Holding a position where you have the Midas’s touch, where everything you touch or wear or even have the slightest courtesy to lay your eyes on, turns to gold.  Even an ice-cream shop that Gigi Hadid or likewise any place one of the Angels frequent, people are seen swarming to these places of hubbub. Imagine what would be the case with products or clothes. Just a little swish and a flick and magically everything these supermodels do are trending. Modeling is an art.

Well, if it were possible I think people would even sell the air these supermodels breathe out, for who knows it might be pixie dust. Isn’t that thought admiringly alluring? So why not, all thanks to the new God for aspiring models and wannabe fashionistas, THE SOCIAL MEDIA has avenues to offer and you cannot fathom. You no more have to wait for a fashion agency to ‘discover’ you sitting poised nonchalantly sipping coffee in a booth. Now you get the power to make yourself seen.

Surfing the internet you might have come across various pop-ups or a cheesy video saying, “Want to become a model? All you need is” ….and then probably a huge red arrow saying click here to know. As if by clicking on it, probably Tyra Banks or Naomi Campbell would adopt you, and the very next day you are walking in Milan fashion week. But just like any other profession there cannot be an ’all you need is in the fashion industry either. It includes serious work and dedication.

Where to start?

Instead of all the whimsical daydreaming, what you actually need to do is to use the resources that are so easily and most importantly freely available, exploit them as much as you possibly can. Modeling is not just limited to one type. Know which body category you fall into and then work accordingly. There is no point in cribbing about the flaws you think you have, acceptance leads to confidence.

Be comfortable in your own skin, only then will you be able to reflect that confidence. Once you have precisely chosen the category you fit in, research the type of modeling best suited for your body shape and size. You can go for high-end fashion modeling or plus-size modeling, commercial modeling, print modeling, petite modeling. Based on your measurements and interests, make your pick. There are various model training academies that you can check out which provide professional guidance and the right grooming necessary. Further, you will need a model portfolio. (Read more at the article building portfolio)

Know the industry.

The unrelenting world of fashion can be very intimidating and hence it is of utmost importance that you educate yourself as much as possible about the ways of the business. Read online or consult someone who is working closely with the fashion industry. Use social media to connect with models. Observe what they do or how they do it. Devour the internet, google as much as you possibly can. How you get signed, what all pointers you need to cater to while going for auditions, the commission rates and the current trends in the industry. Through the years the fashion world has changed drastically and has embraced new and innovative ways. Where earlier you had to be found, today you make yourself seen. After all, in the daunting industry, you need to know the tricks of the trade.

Participation and Recognition

All the fame and popularity isn’t the instant result of modeling. In contrast to the general misconception, there is a lot of hard work that goes into it. Make yourself visible, participate in contests or fashion events. There are a myriad such events that are organized locally as well as nationally. Don’t miss a single chance to go out there and show your best. For you never know what wonderful opportunity you might come across. Be aware of such events and beauty pageants that are being organized around you. The more you work, the more feedback you can collect which gives you more room to work on your shortcomings. Become a member of communities that could notify you of the upcoming contests. Have a digital presence.

The social outreach you hold is a major factor that the agencies put into consideration while picking their next face. Just like building a resume for any other job, Instagram, Facebook and other social media profiles comprise of your digital resume and the one which leaves comparatively a much larger impact. Collaborating with other brands becomes easy, helping you get the connections you need and more open opportunities. Be it a bigger brand or one that has recently started you get to endorse them equally the larger the outreach the better. (Read more at Things to look for while signing with a model agency)

 The lustrous dream

Do you see yourself walking the ramp for Victoria’s Secret? Is that your ultimate dream in the chosen field? Like every career field, you need to set your goals and have a very clear mindset as to where you want to see yourself as a model in the upcoming years. But your goals don’t have to be outrageously unrealistic. For starters it is not smart, rather a necessity to have a backup or a side job along with your goal. Opt for a side job which is related to the industry, it helps you get perspective and also alternate ways to stay connected to the fashion world.

Set a timeframe for yourself and improve your work along the way. Workout for a better and healthier body, actively participate in social media because that is an inseparable and rather highly important part of your career. In the initial stages you might not get paid for a photo-shoot or the job you book, don’t get disheartened, this is a necessary step.

At a point where any and every recognition is appreciated even if you do a few jobs that you did not make any money out of, you are gaining experience. But remember you are not there to provide and do not let the agencies feed off of you. For the first few times it is understandable but make sure to discuss the terms of the contract. Demand a genuine price for your work and there is no shame in asking the right amount that according to you is practical. There is a thin line between getting paid and underpaid. Knowledge is key, know the current market rates for the jobs and put forth your demands accordingly.

Determination 

You can go through any number of articles or blogs looking for pointers and gaining the prerequisites for the job, but unless you are determined and serious about your career in modeling, you can keep acquiring all the knowledge but it would be obsolete if you don’t put it to practice. The industry comes with its own challenges and demands your dedication. If you know you have what it takes to become a model then go ahead, get yourself that first modeling job. One step at a time and the runway is already lit up for you.