How does one become a Model?
On rare occasions models are discovered. Optional available are:

+ find a reputable agency to represent you.
+ find a reputable photographer in the fashion industry to help you get you started.
+ find a reputable contest or model search.
+ find a client to hire you and you can always promote and market yourself.

How Do I find an Agency?
Finding a reputable agency is probably the best means for a prospective model to break into the business. They are some approaches to finding an agency:

+ Ask someone you know who is a model.
+ Ask a commercial photographer which agencies he works with.
+ Check your yellow pages or phone book.
+ Check some of the Internet.
+ Do not sign a modeling contract on the spot. Take it home overnight and read it carefully. If you see clause text you don’t like, ask them to take it out. If you want, you can always ask a lawyer to examine the contract for you.
+ Never accept the clause that says it you leave the agency you will not model elsewhere. Tell the agency that they do not have to worry about you leaving them if they treat you right.
+ Always remember that an agency’s job is to get you work. So in a sense, the agency work for you.

How Do I find a Photographer?

+ Early on you will need photos to start your portfolio, and sometimes just to see if you are photogenic.
+ If you are with reputable agency they should be able to provide a list of competent photographer to choose from. Ask other models whom they used. Otherwise, check your phone book for commercial fashion photographers. You should avoid neigbourhood studio, portrait, wedding, wildlife, etc. photographers as they do not understand the needs of the modeling business when it comes to picture.
+ Your agency will try to get you modeling jobs by sending you on “ go-sees” to as many prospective clients and photographers as possible.
+ The purpose of go-see is to allow the prospective client to view your portfolio and see what you look like in person. Always bring your portfolio and comp cards with you!
+ Always arrive on time to your interviews.
+ Check with your agency ( or with the client) what to bring or wear.

How should I prepare for a Photo Session?

+ Men and women should get a professional manicure and maintain their nails in perfect condition.
+ Eat properly and maintain your weight at desired levels. Some models become depressed when traveling to foreign countries and put one excessive weight as a result. Be sure to avoid food, which degrade your skin complexion.
+ Use appropriate products to treat dry or oily skin conditions.
+ Maintain a healthy life-style of exercise, sleep, etc.. No drugs, minimal alcohol.
+ Practice walking, posing and depicting different facial expressions/ moods on a regular basis.
+ Woman should remove unwanted body hair before a job.
+ If you will be wearing revealing clothing like swimsuits, lingerie, or posing nude, do not wear any tight clothing or elastic 12-24 hour prior to job.
+ Your hair should be freshly shampooed and conditioned before each job.

Do I need to know about Make-up?
Absolutely. When you arrive at a photo session one of three situations will exist:

+ You weren’t needed to wear any make up.
+ A makeup artist will apply your makeup.
+ You will be required to apply your own makeup.

Modeling Professionalism?

+ Always be on time for a job. In general, plan on arriving 15 min early.
+ Accidents happen, but if you are going to be late try to call and let people know.
+ When you arrive you should look and feel best, ready to work, not tired from lack of sleep.
+ You like the clients product or clothes, no matter how stupid they look.
+ Never steal anything from a session.
+ Pay attention to what you are doing.
+ Always pick up after yourself.