How do I get started in Modeling?

You’ve got the right stuff baby...Finding the right Modeling Agency 

Every aspiring model hits the pavement thinking that it is difficult to become a model or to get signed to a modeling agency.  Well in fact it is simple.  There is a formula and a method to the madness.  The formula requires a use of a few simple things among them common sense which is the agile ability to learn, be teachable and to self evolve. 

There isn’t a single living soul on this planet who could not stand to fair well and do better than the day before.  The goal is improvement and not perfection.  Perfection will absolutely kill you because quite frankly it is not a possibility.  In order to learn, in order to grow we are gifted with “mistakes” but they are never really mistakes but rather simple lessons in the continuum of our continuous journey.  Everything that we endure is here to assist us in this journey called life and to assist us in achieving the amplification of becoming our best selves.  In our reach to become a better version of who we are hopefully we inspire others not to become us but to have the courage to make the very same journey.  The journey is love.

The key ingredients to success in the modeling industry is, love and learning.  This holds true in every single industry.  No, this is not new but honest and truthful.  Loving what you do and having passion behind it will give you the grace to endure the trials and test of time to achieve the vision.  

Wear confidence.  Wear confidence everyday like on overbearing overcoat.  Wear it heavy, wear it like a protector from the outside conditions, wear it long and wear it well.  Confidence is being relatable and being you.  Confidence is the ability to tell your story and your narrative of WHO you are no matter what. Confidence is defining character.

Bare it all.  Digitals, Digitals…DIGITALS.  Digitals also referred to as Polaroids and are the basis of the modeling industry.  Suffice it to say it is undoubted that they will go away any time soon.  Digitals are photos take in natural sunlight, without the use of filters.  For the boys and girls, no makeup.  For girls, hair pulled back, up, or off the face.  No cheesy posing, smile with your eyes and convey the message with your eyes.  Wear a plain white, black or ash t-shirt or tank top, dark fitted jeans (skinny jeans, or straight leg jeans or slim boot jeans), and casual dress shoe for the guys…heels for girls.    No need to hire a professional photographer but a strong need to know your angles and catch the light.  Phone a family member or friend to help by using a smart phone to shoot the photos for you.  Shoot them against a plain, solid wall preferably white.

Videophone.   Create a model reel showcasing your walk.   How do you walk? It is simple walk like your naturally would and walk with confidence.  Again no posing …posing is for imposters and we want to see you…not the other “guy.” (Insert air quotes here.) State your name, age and location and measurements (height, waist, inseam, suit size for the guys, dress and bust size for the girls.) 

It is always a good idea to start locally.  Find reputable agencies in your area.  Reputable does not mean large reputable means quality.  If they are asking for any version of nudity right off the bat chances are that they are not reputable.    Know what category of modeling you fit into.  Runway, commercial, editorial and fit modeling are the basics but there are other categories.          

Interview.  Keep in mind that as much as you are being interviewed for acceptance into the agency you are also interviewing the agency.   The goal is to find the right fit.  People work for people and if you really have the idealistic perspective we are working together and on equal planes.   Communication is the most important thing.    There are models with large agencies with zero work and who are not booking anything.  There are those with agencies you have never heard of but they are being booked consistently.  Large agencies rarely spend the time to develop unless you have proven that you have put in the effort yourself and worth developing.  If you need help ask for it be intentional not entitled.

Network.  The most successful models are those that are connectors and have the ability to network.  The aesthetic is only one small part of the job it isn’t the whole kitchen.    For more tips and creative artistry follow us on Instagram www.instagram/thefstate , DM us and visit thefstatemag.com

“Know that you are LOVE and LOVED”