How do I get into modeling?

How do I get into modeling? I am frequently asked this question by men, women and parents of children.

My first suggestion would be to get a directory of modeling agencies in your area. Models-mart.com sells modeling directories, books, composite cards and just about anything a model needs. which covers agencies across the US. You can also Google for local agencies.

In general, be careful. If an agency asks you for money up front for a website, schooling or to take pictures I would pass on the offer. Most legitimate agencies, if they believe in you, will be willing to put you on their website and take the fee out of your first check. The agency should also be able to introduce you to photographers for test shooting which is usually free. I have paid for test shoots if the photographers work is magazine quality and I feel his/her work will make me money back. But, don’t pay the agency for their in house photographer to shoot you.

Most agencies are looking for a fresh face with no experience. They may want you to submit a photo of your face with no make up and a full length shot. Alternately, they are looking for a fully developed model with tear sheets and a book. Of course, this blog is for newbies. You can find an agencies submission requirements posted on their site. Submit what they require or attend an open call if they have one.

Another type of modeling work which a model can obtain without an agent is showroom and trade show modeling. I did plenty of this in my late teens to mid twenties. It is best to have a professional composite card to leave with potential clients so they can contact you at a later date if they are interested. To get live modeling such as this, research when trade shows are coming and what and when fashion weeks are taking place. Once you have the dates go to the location of the trade event the night before when the wholesalers are setting up their booths. Just go booth to booth asking if they need a model for the show. If a market week is coming up i.e. a bridal market, you must do some research and drop by the showrooms introducing yourself and letting them know you are interested in part time showroom modeling. I always, got work doing this. It’s not the glamorous magazine work a lot of people dream of, but you can earn a some nice cash in hand and still have the flexibility to pursue additional work.

And most importantly have fun!