How do I break into modelling?
Do I have the look and the potential to be a model? What types of modeling are out there? How can modelling forums such as Diesel Models help me get into the modelling industry? How do I avoid scam modelling agencies? Is it worth travelling to modelling agencies in London?
The first stage of getting into modelling involves doing your research..
You need to decide what type of modelling would be right for you. Whenever we hear about modelling it’s normal to think of those that we see in magazines such as Vogue and Tatler or the models on the Catwalks in Milan and Paris. However this makes up only a tiny proportion of models in the industry. Models and modelling can also fall into a number of other categories such as Commercial Print, Editorial Print, Children and Teens. Catalogue, Promotional, TV and Film Extras. Glamour, Petite , Plus size, Mature, and even Fit and Showroom Modelling.
Approaching the agencies
Once you have done your research into the types of modelling that are out there then the next stage is to think about how and which agencies to approach.
One of the easiest and most recommend routes would be to go through a company such as Diesel Models. Diesel Models are not a modelling agency, they were founded to help aspiring models get themselves into a position where they can confidently approach the right agencies.
Diesel Models London will be honest with you and let you know if they think you have what it takes. They can suggest the areas of the industry they think are most suited to based on your look, height age and size.
Diesel models are aware there are a lot of scam agencies and people out to make money as modelling is such a competitive industry. They can therefore advise you on the agencies to approach that will offer you genuine work and which ones to avoid.
Portfolios
A small group of agencies will take you on with out seeing any images often only the very high end fashion catwalk agencies. If you are one of the select few to be taken on by these modelling agencies then you do not need to worry about having a portfolio as they will work with you to produce your first promotional shots. However you will be one of the very lucky ones if this is the case.
The majority of models do not meet these extremely high standards. So it is highly recommended that you arm yourself with a professional portfolio. This means that you need to find a photographer who specializes in modelling shoots and has experience in putting together portfolios for new models up to the industry standard.
This is something that Diesel Models and other such forums can help with. They often work with studios that specialize in shooting portfolios for new models. They use photographers and makeup artists that are professionals in the industry, and they know exactly what the agencies are looking for. Diesel Models may even offer to cover the costs of the shoot, the hire of the studio, make up artist and photographer.. This would mean that the only cost you would incur would be the purchasing of the images that make up your portfolio.
Tips for your portfolio
Remember - your portfolio is not a photo album for sentimental pictures. It is there to sell you, so it is important to keep this in mind.
Ideally, you should aim to have photos no older than approx a year as it is important to keep it fresh, and if you update your look drastically, hair etc then new pictures would be recommended.
It's a good idea to keep spare copies of the photos and to keep a hard copy on your computer in case you damage you disk.
Don't assume that the photographer charging you the most will be the best, but also remember that you also get what you pay for. You need to Strike a balance between the two. This is where companies like Diesel Models can come into play saving costs on studio hire and makeup artists etc so all you need to purchase is your images.
Once you have your portfolio
Once you have purchased the full copyright of your images you then need to start approaching the agencies. Diesel Models would be able to give you a list of agencies to approach and those not to approach. If you haven’t gone through a forum then you will need to look for agencies in your area by searching online or searching the yellow pages.
You should then email your professional pictures over to them with a short message and your statistics. It is also important to ask them what they will be doing for you if they take you on. Will they actively seek work for you or will your images just appear on their website for clients to browse? If the agencies haven’t been recommended as safe then it is also important to see who there client list includes and see if they have any testimonials from other models that maybe you can contact.