How to get into modeling?

I get asked this question a million times a day! "How do I get into modeling?" I will try to make this as simple/short as possible.

Before I begin I want to ask YOU a question, are you serious about modeling? If you are you can keep reading. I ask this because so many people want to be models, want to be actresses, want to be this and want to be that. If you don't really want this? Save it for someone who really does.

Here's a few things you need to know. Just because you take photographs doesn't mean your a "model". Just because you were in 1 music video doesn't mean your a "model". Just because you went to a model school? You are defiantly not a model.

Here's a few tips to start your modeling career!

1. Practice.
To become a model you must practice. It may sound silly but, practice your posses in the mirror.  Look at how other models pose just so you can get an idea when you start shooting and so you actually LOOK like a model.

* Show your beautiful long neck, learn to extend you neck and make it look long.
* Everyone has a better side/fierce side, perfect it and show it off!
* Legs, Show off those long legs as best as you can
* If your short learn to look tall by extending your neck & not bending your legs.
* The best shoots are natural. Just have fun with it and try not to be so posy. Don't think just be confident.
* make sure you trying new things! Keep moving your body in every shot and also change your face expressions.
* have your friends & family take pictures of you constantly get the hang of being in front of the camera!
* Remember modeling is not fb, myspace or twitter pics. They are not the kind of photos where your sticking your butt out trying to look cute or putting your middle finger up.. That is not art!

2. Test Shoots

Once you've got the hang of practicing your posses and you think your ready to start shooting, start getting in touch with photographers. Test shoot with as much photographers as you can so you can start your portfolio, comp cards, head shots or even business cards if you want to go all out. Make sure also you are shooting with the RIGHT photographers. You will learn that in time. Try to make you portfolio editorial, creative and lifestyle photos. Try to leave out the ones where your wearing a lot of make up,  or your  in shots with other people, or photos where there's no emotion or you look weird. You will learn that all in time.. Also please try to look your age? Or try to look young. Because agencies love young fresh models so try to go for that! If you look to old who is going to want you? Now, when first starting off your portfolio make sure the photos are 8 by 10. Also, make sure you keep it to 15-20 photos. Make sure every photo looks different and better from the last photo. You will learn it all in time. It get's easier through  experience. Just keep shooting with many photographers non stop and then start a nice, clean book!

3. Find an Agent!

Once you have started your portfolio book, start looking for agencies in your area. It's simple just go to google.com and type in agencies in (your state). Make sure they're an agency and not a SCHOOL! you don't need to go to school for modeling ( that's kind of stupid ). Check out their website find out when their open calls are, what their emails are so you can email them your photos and measurements. When sending emails, only send your snap shots (snap shots are just simple/natural photos of yourself, agencies want to see you & your natural beauty!).  You want to send a head shot, body shot, half body shot and profile shot. As for measurements, bust, waist, hips, height, age, dress and shoe. Don't forget to say your name, age, address and contact information. Now, if they have open calls make sure you bring your port, comp card, and head shot w/ resume. ( head shot and comp card is not really necessary  but, might be eventually.) Make sure you are dressed simple. So wear tank and skinny jeans or shirt and mini skirt ( but not too short!). Just wear natural make up as well and make sure you hair is perfecto! Also wear your tallest heels!!

There's no need to call the agency and don't just show up because that's unprofessional! Modeling is not like finding a regular job. So, please just either send an email or go to an open call. This is very important make sure when you send your email that the files don't go over 2MB or else it's possible it will go to spam. So, you might have to make your photos smaller. Remember you don't pay the agent, they pay you! Good luck finding your agent!


4. Research

People want me to tell them step by step about photographers, head shots, comp cards, what to wear, where to go, who to write, scams, agencies names, other models, websites, how to pose, who to talk to or how did I do this, how did you do that.. blah blah blah. I love to give advice and thats really amazing that you come to me! But, you have to be motivated. Now, if you really want this... You have to do your research on everything you need to know about modeling! There's so much to learn and I can't tell you every single detail because that would take years! So just get some inspiration and start shooting! Remember google is your friend and you will only get better if you know your facts! Now, perfect your craft and good luck !!

If you still have questions about other things you can still write me and I'll be glad to answer.


www.cargocollective.com/kouwaipotocnik
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