Fashion model, how to start

Barackachess

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Sep 1, 2018
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Hello everyone, I'm Baracka, Brand manager at THE INNOVATION HOUSE BRAND WORLDWIDE (Modeling Agency ) in london , Today on behalf of INHB WORLDWIDE (@theinnovationhouse.uk) • Instagram photos and videos

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There are many myths about the modeling profession that can create confusion for new models which may stop them from pursuing their lifelong dream of becoming a professional model.
Here are 5 of the top myths about becoming a professional model along with real information

01You Have to Be Tall
While there are certain height requirements for runway models and high-fashion (editorial) models, there is a tremendous amount of work available for models who are under 5' 9". Even the big agencies in New York, Paris and Milan, are willing to make exceptions for a model who is a "complete package."
Supermodel Kate Moss was one of the first to break the height barrier at 5' 6" (some agencies list Kate at between 5' 7" - 5' 8", but most people think that is generous). There are even male models like Aaron Frew who, at just 5' 7", is represented by top fashion agency d'Management in Milan, Italy. Agents have been known to hire models who were 5' 3" and 5' 4" to top agencies Elite Model Management and Ford Models.
But, don't worry if you can't get signed to a top fashion agency due to a height issue, because there is a substantial commercial market that is always open to models of all heights.

02 You Have to Be Skinny to Be a Model
With more women demanding to see models who better represent what "real" women look like, the fashion industry has responded. Over the past ten years, the plus-size modeling market has become one of the fastest growing and most important sectors of the fashion industry.
Not only are modeling agencies welcoming models who are curvier and more voluptuous than the usual super thin fashion model, but they are turning these girls into superstars! Many of the top modeling agencies in New York, L.A. and even Paris and Milan now have divisions devoted solely to plus-size models.
So, if you are curvy or big, bold and beautiful, and know how to work it, then many of the top agencies will want to see you!

03 You Have to Be Young
Just as consumers demanded to see models who better represent the various size categories of real women (see Myth #2), the demand for models who represent a variety of age categories has also become an important part of the modeling industry. The baby boomers are aging, and there is a real demand for models who can represent products that are important to this age demographic. There is a wide range of products for which mature models are needed such as the travel industry, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and even high fashion. So, if you have always dreamed of becoming a model and you're over 25 don't let age hold you back. Agencies are always looking for mature models of all ages!

04 You Need Professional Photos
Professional photographs are never required when you are first starting out. All you need are some simple snapshots for the agents to determine your potential as either a fashion model or commercial model.
Once an agency has determined that it would like to represent you, then you can discuss with the agents what type of photos you'll need for them to promote you to their clients. Depending on the type of agency and the market you are in, the agency may be willing to advance the cost of your first photo shoot. Otherwise, this will be an investment you will have to make.


The most common question that modeling agents and scouts receive from aspiring models is, "how do I become a fashion model?." There is so much information in books, on websites, and swirling around in modeling forums that it can seem very confusing and overwhelming to a new model who is just starting out. Here are 5 simple steps to help you get started.

1. Take a snap
In the beginning, the only photos you need to present to modeling agents and scouts are some basic snapshots. They are looking for a nice face shot (smiling and not smiling), left and right profiles of your face and body, a full length shot and a back shot.
Wear form-fitting clothing like skinny jeans or leggings and a simple tank top or t-shirt. If you are comfortable wearing a swimsuit, then include a few swimsuit shots as well, either a one-piece or two-piece swimsuit is fine.
Male models need to show the agents their fitness level, so it is recommended that male models wear swim trunks or boxer shorts, or wear jeans without a shirt in at least one of their photos.

2. Find agent, agence
You can start with INHB WORLDWIDE (FIND THEM ON INSTAGRAM ) Most new models start their quest because their family and friends have said “you should be a model," or they are the prettiest girl or guy in the school. They may have even won some local modeling competitions.
That’s a great start, but it doesn’t necessarily translate into what the agencies are looking for. It is essential that you get your modeling potential evaluated by an experienced model agent or scout before you invest too much time or money into your pursuit.
This step can get a little tricky. How do you determine whether the agent or scout who is evaluating you has the experience and knowledge to help you?
Also, many new models find that they live in a smaller market where many of the agents are affiliated with a modeling school or photography studio. As a result, they may not be getting an accurate evaluation if the "agency" is more interested in selling courses or photo shoots.
It doesn't mean that the agent isn't good or that the courses or photo shoots they are offering are bad; it just means that you need to think about what is motivating them to tell you whether or not you can be a model.


3.Get as Much Exposure as Possible
Many agencies specialize in only one particular area. Some may only represent high fashion (editorial) models. Others may only represent commercial models, or plus-size, petite, or child models. If one agency is unable to represent you don’t get discouraged, it’s important that you get seen by as many agents as possible and on a routine basis.
If you live in one of the major markets you may be able to attend an open call or go-see at the agency. If you live outside one of the major markets the best way to get exposure is to send your photos to as many agencies as possible.
It can be a very time-consuming and expensive endeavor, especially if you are making copies of all your photos and then mailing them. The cost of prints, envelopes, and stamps can easily add up to over a thousand dollars. Another option is to email your photos--but with thousands of photos being emailed to model agencies every day, it is very easy to get lost in the mix.
To increase your chances of being signed by an agency, it is important to work with people who have experience and direct connections to all the agencies in a wide variety of markets.
ModelScouts.com is a great place to start and offers the most legitimate and cost-effective way for you to get the exposure you need to be seen by many agents around the world and in the quickest way possible.

4.Know the Best Modeling Market for You
The term “market” refers to the various geographical locations in which models work and earn a living. New York is a “market,” Paris is “market,” Tokyo is a “market," and so on. The word "market" can also refer to the category your particular look falls into such as the fashion market, commercial market, plus market, or petite market.
While the supermodels you see in major magazines and walking the runways for top clients generally work in every market, there are many successful models who only work in one or two markets.
So, even though you may not get represented by an agency in New York or Paris, you could very well be perfect for Tokyo, Singapore, and other Asian markets. An experienced agent can help guide you to the right market for your particular look

5.Be Persistent
Becoming a professional model is a process. It rarely happens overnight. Even the models who say “I was just walking down the street one day and the next I was on the cover of Vogue” are exaggerating.
Becoming a professional model takes time. Many of today’s top models didn’t get signed to an agency the first time out of the gate. Supermodel Gisele Bundchen was turned down over 40 times before she was finally signed to an agency.
Stay positive and remember that just because an agency wasn’t able to represent you today, it doesn’t mean they won’t be interested tomorrow.


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