8 EASY STEPS TO BECOMING A SUCCESSFUL MODEL
A lot of young girls want to become models and not just any kind of model but a recognized one. No doubt modeling is lucrative and glamorous – The industry is extremely competitive and full of rejection. There is no gainsaying that a lot of people may not be recognized in this space.
However, if it is your dream and you want to be a model, there are a few steps I believe can bring you closer to your dreams. But before then, it is important to know that modeling jobs can be hard to come by and that is why dedication and perseverance are very important in this industry. Below are some of my outlined Steps to becoming a Successful Model.
1. HEALTHY LIVING.
This is by every measure one of the most important ‘must do’ for one who aspires to be a model or one who is a model. You can only be as good as you look and you can only look as good and as healthy as you live.
To live healthy, it is imperative that one takes exercising seriously – this will keep you fit at all times.
Closely tied to exercising is ensuring that one eats and drinks healthy food. A healthy body will help you look your best.
You may decide to work out by yourself or you may get a personal trainer who understands your modeling goals.
The key thing here is to eat right and carry out the tailored exercises that will project your body the way you want it. Always drink lots of water and keep your alcohol intake low.
2. IDENTIFY YOUR STRENGTHS AND PRESENT THEM.
You have to know what makes you “YOU”. What is that unique thing you possess that makes you feel strong and confident. Basically, everything about you being a model revolves totally around your appearance.
In as much as beauty is subjective, you never know what someone will find beautiful around you. For example, your confidence in your body language and the way you carry or present yourself can affect how other people perceive you. You have to always remind yourself that you have something unique to offer. Showing confidence can play a big role in you becoming a successful model.
3. LET YOUR MODELING GOALS MATCH YOUR BODY TYPE.
Knowing your body type or shape plays a great role in defining your modeling goals. In as much as anyone can become a model, if you don’t meet the requirement for a particular work, your chances of getting it are almost zero.
There are different types of models, so your body type will be first to define your options. For example;
v A Plus-sized Model: If you have a full body and you are also curvy, you can fit into a plus size model.
v A Runway Model: This kind of modeling is almost an exclusive preservation of tall models with slender frames. For the girls, an average height of 5.8 feet and an average breast size – While the men, a height requirement of between 5’11 and 6’2 is usually sought.
v A Print Model: To fit into this category, the key thing here is beautiful face with great personality. So if you have that, then you can now develop yourself further.
v An Underwear Model: This category requires women with large breasts but small hips. For the men, the focus is on broad shoulders but with a slim waist.
v Other Types of Modeling: there are other modeling options like; the foot, hair, skin, nails and hand modeling.
However, one may decide to redefine the industry expectations – Try something new maybe. There is no harm in trying something different and creating a new acceptable type of modeling.
4. IDENTIFY A GOOD AGENCY YOU CAN TRUST.
Because your choice of an agency can either make you or mar you, a model must ensure that full attention is paid to the agency to work with.
It is important to deal with an agency that will understand your personal needs as a model, lift you up, and never ask you to subject yourself to dangerous or compromising deeds.
Take your financial capability in comparison to what the agency offers into account before deciding which to go with. Ensure that the agency is not one that exploits you and offers little. You must ward against getting into a contract that you would regret.
5. BE AWARE OF THE DUTIES OF THE JOB
This is one of my key point and I always love to let it out. You have to know what you will face as model. Bad agencies will want you to sacrifice your morals, integrity or beliefs just to obtain certain photo shots.
Modeling can be a very tiring job and the idea of modeling is not to make you popular but it is for you to create a certain look defined by the photographers and companies. It is therefore important for you to know that models are used to create the right desired photo. And that is why photographers, agencies and product campaigns, value the photo goal ahead of the model’s needs.
6. RESPECT AND UPHOLD YOUR VALUES.
This is a very delicate point and everyone going into this industry has to take it very seriously. If you don’t respect and keep your values, wrong agencies will gladly help you to destroy it. Know your values and keep it close to your heart. I always say this, don’t sacrifice yourself in anyway to be a model. The industry can be laced with drugs, alcohol, sex-trades, rape, greed and more. You can easily find yourself in this crowd when you’re looking for a quick way to fame and money. For me, this point is very special, “know your values and stick to your guns! Always work with good agencies; they will honor your values and can lead you to a great career.
7. YOU HAVE TO EDUCATE YOURSELF AND ALSO PRACTICE.
You have to spend time reading books, articles and blogs that talk about modeling. This will help you understand what is expected of you in the industry.
Reading will help you improve your skills and give you a better understanding of how the industry works. Like it is said, practice makes perfect: You have to practice, practice and practice. Don’t think that when you walk into a modeling agency and do a few twirls they will quickly sign you. It doesn’t work that way.
You have to practice so that you will outdo other girls who are also seeking out agencies to work with. You must have something in you that interests the agency as well.
8.TAKE GOOD HEADSHOTS.
Part of what agencies require of models for consideration is a variety of headshots and full body shots as well.
You must have them handy and they must have been taken in your natural looks – no make ups are needed. The agency would want to see the real you.
Get a photographer or a photo studio to take a natural headshot. The picture must be without any photo-touching. Always keep this in mind, you’re pretty just as you are, so let the agencies see you for you!
Thank you for reading and if you want to join this industry, don’t forget, to always be yourself. Don’t change who you are, either on the inside or outside to please anyone.
Honestly, modeling can build your self-confidence and can also add plenty money on the side of your regular day job. However, do not sacrifice yourself, your values or your self-esteem.
Let me have your comment below and feel free to email model@nhoodmag.com if you want to join the neighborhood magazine models and enjoy the exposure. In your mail include a headshot and full body picture of you and your CV. See you soon.
