How to Be a Male Model at 16

Enlist your parents' help if you want to pursue a modeling career.

Male modeling is becoming increasingly popular in the fashion industry. It can be very difficult to get a modeling career started when you have little or no prior experience. However, at 16 years old, you will be considered for the younger-male industry where there is likely to be less competition. This makes 16 a good age to begin building your modeling career.

Things You'll Need

• Portfolio
• Transportation

Instructions

1. Talk to your parents about your modeling aspirations. As a minor, you will need your parents' permission and support to handle any legal documents, such as waivers and contracts. Furthermore, ask your parents to help you research potential clients, especially those you find online. In the modeling industry there are plenty of scammers as well as potentially dangerous people who pose as legitimate photographers or agents. Your parents should help you check on your clients' validity, as well as accompany you to shoots and other modeling work for safety reasons.

2. Study and practice modeling. Read current fashion magazines to get an idea of the popular styles. Study the work of other male models, as this will help you develop a proper style of your own. Practice modeling poses at home so that you will be able to pose more naturally in front of the camera.

3. Build a portfolio. Your portfolio will consist of your best modeling work you've done. To break into the industry, you may need to hire a professional photographer to take portfolio shots for you. This will allow you to show your abilities to potential clients, as they are not likely to hire you without previewing your sample shots.

4. Search for freelance projects that fit your modeling style and aims. One place to find freelance work is through online classifieds. Often, photographers and clients will list a potential project online with open casting, meaning anyone can apply. Such projects will allow you to build up your modeling portfolio.

5. Acquire contacts in the modeling and fashion industry by working with photographers and stylists. Clients who enjoy your work will likely want to work with you again. Furthermore, they are likely to recommend you to other clients they know. Always be professional when interacting with clients, and try to leave a lasting impression so they remember you. This will make them more likely to consider you for future projects.

References

• Instant Cast: Male Modeling Tips
• Bobpardue.com: 6 Quick Tips on How to Become a Teen Model