What Education & Training Does a Model Require?

Models are trained to walk properly on the runway.

Formal education or training is generally not a prerequisite for successful models. Modeling agencies look for a variety of attributes in potential models, including inexperience. Potential models needn't sign up for modeling classes; in fact, such classes are often warned against by the Better Business Bureau and similar consumer's advocate groups. Successful models need to learn how to walk, act and be photographed, for example, but such classes are generally provided by an agency that sees potential in the model.

History

Signing with a reputable modeling agency is the foundation for an aspiring model. It is with the agency that the model receives the education and tools she needs to succeed in the business. The first -- and currently one of the most recognizable - modeling agency was started by Jerry Ford. Ford founded Ford Modeling Agency with his wife, Eileen Ford, in 1946. Ford -- who eventually represented big names like Lauren Hutton and Christie Brinkley - was the first self-proclaimed modeling agent to instate a contractual payment system between the agent, model and client. "Before Jerry came along, there were only robber barons who were out there running modeling schools," said Carmen Dell'Orefice in the New York Times. Dell'Orefice was a model with the Ford Modeling Agency for 60 years.

Significance

Formal education is relatively insignificant when it comes to modeling. No degree is required. An aspiring model may, however, wish to take resume, poise or interviewing classes in order to land his first gig. Once a model is signed to an agent, the agency generally provides any necessary training for the model hopeful.

Benefits

A model can benefit from the training her agency provides. Agencies may provide inexperienced models with style classes, such as hair and makeup styling. A model also benefits from the runway and photography lesson tutorials she is provided with through her agency. During runway or print training, for example, a model learns how to position her body while strutting her stuff or posing for a photo. Such sessions giver her familiarity with the business as well as experience to add to her portfolio.

Warning

Many model aspirants begin their search for local agencies, photographers and model casting calls online. However, budding models -- or parents, in the case of child models -- should be wary of modeling schools. Legitimate modeling schools exist, but the Better Business Bureau suggests, "Avoid high-pressure sales tactics. Never sign a document without reading and understanding it first. In fact, ask for a blank copy of the contract to take home and review with someone you trust. If the company refuses, walk away."

Misconceptions

Modeling schools and reputable modeling agencies are not the same. Modeling schools make commission on class fees, and therefore accept most anyone into their programs. Most modeling agencies won't take money upfront, and they'll still provide model training. Since agents make a percentage of their models' salaries, they generally only sign those with true potential. Neither schools nor agencies can provide model hopefuls with a guaranteed career.

References

• Better Business Bureau: FTC - If You've Got The Look, Look Out! Avoiding Modeling Scams
• New York Times: Jerry Ford, 83, Man Behind the Models, Dies

Resources

• Modeling Scams: Modeling Schools