Once you have made the decision to pursue a modeling career, then the first step is to get a PORTFOLIO done.
The tools of your trade are your portfolio photographs. Basically, a portfolio is a model’s “resume” consisting of the best photos from tests and bookings. Your portfolio is your main selling tool. Presentation, quality and variety of shots are all very important factors to be considered. It doesn’t matter whether you have more black and white photos than color ones- great pictures are great pictures. Every portfolio needs a mix of commercial and editorial shots, location as well as studio. It is also good to have at least one body shot, and one headshot. Your portfolio is your responsibility and it must be well taken care of. If your portfolio is lost, you may not be able to replace it. That is why it is good to have a back up portfolio, or a CD-ROM PORTFOLIO- in case of theft, loss, or damage to your “first book.”
“TEST”: Photo shoot done by a professional photographer at the models expense, resulting in the selection of two or three photos to be used in the model’s portfolio.
“PORTFOLIO”, also referred to as a model’s “book”: a models basic promotional tool consisting of an album showing the best photos from tests and bookings.
“COMPOSITE”, also referred to as “ZED CARD”, “CARD”, “COMP”: A Promotional tool in the form of a 5.5 x 8.5 card intended for clients. The comp card is a selection of 4 to 8 of the model’s best photos and is updated regularly at the model’s expense.
WHAT IT TAKES TO BECOME A MODEL
It is impossible to specify individual facial features, since a model’s character, beauty and above all photogenic qualities are the sum of the all.
Healthy skin, well-cared-for teeth and natural, well cut hair are generally sought after.
Models can come in all shapes and sizes. What one client may be searching for, another client may not be interested in. Plus-size models earn just as much as “traditional” models and at times are in more demand.
This is the most demanding criterion. Many pretty girls do not meet this ultimate requirement- a photogenic face. And yet certain girls whose looks are ever so slightly ordinary or even somewhat unusual can be highly photogenic. This criterion is the most subjective and the hardest to evaluate. Only a modeling professional can give you an accurate appraisal of your photogenic potential. The reality of it is that only 5% of the people who meet the main criteria will also pass the final test. But physical appearance isn’t everything. You also need a certain temperament to be a model. You should be aware that it’s an exciting but highly demanding line of work.
A model must have poise. Modeling involves meeting many people in many situations- auditions, photo shoots, fashion shows, go-sees, and etc- and possibly in many different countries. It’s important to be at ease, to be able to communicate easily and to radiate self-confidence. An outgoing person with an appealing smile will always receive more work than someone who is shy and withdrawn.
A model has to be very disciplined. They have to be organized, available and presentable at all times. That means getting the right amount of sleep, eating properly, and avoiding smoking and excessive drinking. Models must also take care of their skin, hair, and bodies. The modeling scene does often involve partying. A model must have the strength of character and will power in order to stay away from too much drinking and partying. An agency will drop a model very quickly if it becomes known that they drink and party a lot.
To succeed, a model must be an intelligent businessperson. He/she must know how to spend and invest money wisely. Also, a model must know how to conduct business with agents, photographers, and clients, and must appear professional at castings, go-sees, and bookings.
HAVE CONFIDENCE
Clients are looking for someone who is self-assured and whom they think can sell their product. A model must be able to sell themselves before they can sell a product. It is very important to handle the rejection that every model must face. No model could meet the expectations of every possible client. It is best to go into castings not concerned whether or not you get the job. That way it’s a pleasant surprise if you get it, but you aren’t let down if you don’t.
The bottom line is that modeling isn’t for everybody. However, it can be an extremely rewarding experience- not just financially. The possibilities of traveling the world, meeting new people and developing excellent people skills are all wonderful benefits of the modeling industry. Do you have what it takes? If it is something you would like to try, then go for it. You won’t know until you try. Who knows, you may be the next Supermodel!