Mastering the Basics of Modeling : Part 1 of 3

1. 1. Be healthy inside. Eat and drink healthy foods and get plenty of exercise. Having a healthy body will help you look your best.
   
   • Fitness is important. Consider working with a trainer who works specifically with models. Tell him about your modeling goals and how you want to look, and ask for a tailored exercise regimen that will support those goals.

   
   

   

   
   

   • Eat right. Contrary to what some people tell you, you should eat healthy foods, as well as healthy amounts of food. Veggies, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats, and proteins should make up the basics of your diet. Sugars, starches, empty carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats should be avoided as much as possible.

   
   

   

   
   

   • Be sure to drink a lot of water. Avoid sodas (even diet sodas) and minimize your alcohol intake.

   
   

   

1. 2. Maintain your appearance. Take care to make yourself look healthy and well-groomed. What you wear and how you carry yourself are important as well, but you should have a routine that supports the health of your skin and hair.
   • Focus on keeping your skin clear and glowing. Wash your face in the morning and at night, exfoliate once a week, and remember to wash your makeup off before you go to sleep.

   
   

   

   
   

   • Keep your hair shiny and healthy. Some agencies and managers prefer the "natural greasy look," so it may be okay if you prefer to minimally shower.

   
   

   

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   3. Match your modeling goals to your body type. Technically, anybody can be a model. However, if you don't meet certain requirements, the work available to you will be incredibly limited or you may have to compensate in other areas (reliability, technique, etc).

   • A Plus-Sized Model: If your body is full and curvaceous, you may be able to be a plus size model.

   
   

   

   
   

   • A Runway Model: Most women on the catwalk are at least 5'8 and commonly small-breasted. Men are mostly between 5'11 and 6'2.

   
   

   

   
   

   • A Print Model: Most editorial female models are at least 5'7, but a beautiful face with great personality are the most important features for print models.

   
   

   

   
   

   • An Underwear Model: For women, this requires large breasts but small hips. For men, this requires broad shoulders but slim waists.

   
   

   

   
   

   • An Alternative Model: Some agencies hire alternative models: models who do not conform to the industry “standards” of beauty, height, and weight. Additionally, having a specific passion or cause that you’re working towards can help open doors that may be closed due based on a body feature that does not “fit industry standards”.

   
   

   

   
   

   • Other Types of Modeling: If you don't fit any of the face or body descriptions, perhaps you can be a foot, hair, or hand model.

   
   

   

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   4. Consider situational modeling. If you do not think the runway or magazines are the place for you, look into other types of modeling. Companies use models for special events or to promote specific products. There are fewer restrictions on body type and more emphasis on personality for these modeling jobs.

   • A Promotional Model: Some companies want their customer base to interact directly with models who are generally attractive with likable personalities to promote their brand. You may see these models in grocery stores, events, or clubs promoting things like food, liquor, or new products.

   
   

   

   
   

   • A Spokesmodel: Spokesmodels are hired to be consistently associated with a specific brand. Contrary to popular thought, spokesmodels don't always have to verbally promote the brand.

   
   

   

   
   

   • A Trade Show Model: This type of model is hired by companies or brands to advertise to attendees at a trade show tent or booth. These models are typically not employed by the company but hired as "freelance" models for the event.

   
   

   

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   5. Consider your "look". The look that you communicate can be made up of both your body type and your style. There is more of a curvy California look, a svelte and sophisticated New York look, a waif-like European look, and a boy- or girl-next-door look. Know what you're equipped with, but also try to pull off other looks.

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   6. Educate yourself about the industry. Learn as much as you can from reading books, blogs, and articles about modeling. Reading quality guides, articles, and books will help you improve important skills (like posing and posture) and better understand how the industry works (such as how to find an agent).

   • Also research reputable agencies that place models in high-profile places, such as magazines and fashion shows.

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   7. Be prepated for a difficult road. The modeling world is jam-packed with pretty faces. Being good looking does not equate to success as a model. The modeling business is not just about looking great; you have to fit the need of specific jobs just in order to get a chance. Modeling is only for serious people who carry unique looks and characteristics. Since there are so many people trying to become models in today's world, it's very challenging to get into the industry. Success will only come with patience and perseverance.
   
   

   8. Do not be shy. You will have to promote yourself and look for opportunities to step up and prove your abilities. Standing back and being “polite” will not get you where you are going. Be yourself, let your personality shine, and have a confident attitude. If you don’t feel confident, fake it; modeling often requires acting skill as well!