Modeling is one of the most competitive industries out there. Models not only win the genetic jackpot – they also have to be professional, ambitious, hardworking and unique. Not everyone is ready to be a model, but if you're willing to put in the work, you might find yourself on the cover of a magazine someday.

1 Build Your Portfolio

Get Headshots.

To submit to agencies, you'll need pictures to show them how you look. Photos don't need to be professional, but they should clearly convey how you currently look.

Schedule a photo shoot with a friend of yours who has a good camera.

Make sure you have at least one good shot of the head and a good full-length shot of your body.
Don't wear makeup and keep your clothes plain (a tank top and jeans work best).
Take pictures outside to take advantage of natural lighting.
Do not apply any filters to the photos afterwards.

Work With Different Photographers.

To have a compelling portfolio, you need to have a lot of photos of yourself and they should all be different. Working with different photographers on different shoots will help give you lots of picture options to choose from when creating your book.

Try to show facial expressions and body movements while working on different shoots.
The more photographers you work with and the more shoots you do, the more comfortable you will be in front of the camera.

Some photographers bring out the best in certain models. Find photographers who work well with you and collaborate with them often.

Look for photographers who are just starting out.

1. They will be more likely to work with the new model.
2. You can find photographers by looking on Craigslist or creating a profile on Model Mayhem.
3. Know and embrace your modeling "type." The fashion industry is all about putting people in boxes, so to be able to market yourself effectively, you need to know and understand your "type."
4. If you have an acceptable type of beauty, you are ideal for commercial print modeling.
5. If you have an interesting, unpredictable face, you are ideal for editorial fashion shoots.
6. If you have an amazing body, you are ideal for lingerie and swimwear shoots.
7. If you are very tall, you are ideal for bridal shoots and runways.
8. If your face is perfectly symmetrical, you are ideal for beauty shots.
9. If you are very toned and in shape, you are ideal for fitness modeling.
10. If you have perfect hands and/or feet, you are ideal for modeling parts. The ideal shoe size for women is between 6 and 7, while the ideal size for men is between 9 and 10.
11. If you are very outgoing as well as attractive, then you are ideal for promotional modeling.
12. Modeling agencies these days are on the lookout for models with all body types, so don't feel like you have to have a certain body type to get into the industry.

2 Securing Representation

research agencies. Do a Google search for modeling agencies in your area. Check to see what models the agency currently represents, what types of jobs those models book, and how often the models work.

Check to make sure the agency is reputable. If they have reviews online, read them to see how they represent the models it's like to work with them.

If you are interested in working with a smaller agency, pay attention to how large the agency is.
If you live in a rural area, look for modeling agencies in the nearest large city.

Submit agents.

Most agencies have online submission forms where you can submit your information and photos. Be honest about your height, weight, and other measurements.

If an agent is interested in representing you, they will usually reach out within four weeks.
Don't feel bad if you don't get the call. The agency may already be representing someone who is very similar to you.

just do not give up! Keep submitting to agencies until you find a good match participate in modeling open calls. Look for modeling casting calls in your area. Sometimes agencies catch up with new talent when they want to sign them. Attend the casting call wearing minimal makeup, simple clothing, and high-heeled shoes (for women).

1. Women should wear jeans and a black tank top.
2. Men should wear jeans and a form-fitting black T-shirt.
3. Be sure to bring copies of your headshots and body shots.
4. If you have any other previous modeling work, print out the pictures and bring them with you.
5. be on time! Professionalism will set you apart in the modeling industry.

3. Show your personality.

If you get the opportunity to spend time with an agent, be yourself. Agents want to book models that are interesting, professional, smart and unique. The better able the model is to present herself, the easier it will be to book a job for that model.

Besides modeling, what are your interests?

Gender classes are a great way to build industry relationships, learn about the business, and get feedback on your looks and pictures. In a modeling class, you'll learn how to pose, walk, and brand yourself effectively to secure the most work.

Be sure to research the class before signing up. Some modeling classes are scams and should be avoided.

You don't need to take a class to be a successful model, but it's a good way to get started.
Practice posing in front of a mirror. Actors and singers practice in front of the mirror and models should do the same. It's important to see what your face looks like when you're executing different facial expressions. Work your mirror for five minutes every day and you'll find that you have more control over your facial muscles and expressions.

1. Practice smiling without squeezing your eyes or showing too much gums.
2. Focus each practice session on perfecting one facial expression.
3. Be sure to use your hips in your poses as well.
4. Standing completely straight isn't great, so try placing your hands on your hips and rotating your hips to the left or right.

List your submitted repertoire. Each model should have ten different poses that they can whip up on command. Practice in front of a mirror until you have ten different poses, then work on moving from one pose to the next.

Everyone's body is different, so focus on hiding your flaws as well as finding poses that highlight your body's best features.

Look in magazines for inspiration for new poses. Make sure you have a pose that makes you feel great when wearing a swimsuit or lingerie.

Work on your body. As a model, your body is your most important asset, so it's important to keep it in tip-top shape. Create an exercise regimen that you enjoy so you'll be more likely to stick with it.
Models do everything from yoga to spin classes. There's no one right way to stay in shape, so focus on doing things that you enjoy.

Eat right.

Models maintain very busy schedules and spend a lot of time traveling, so eating right is a must. Focus on getting plenty of protein, such as egg whites, Greek yogurt or protein shakes.
Drink water regularly to help with energy and keep your skin clear.

1. Supplement your diet with additional vitamins.
2. Drink green juice for an extra helping of nutrients.

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