How to Become a Full-Figured Model

Becoming a full-figured model is a bit tougher than breaking into traditional modeling. There are fewer jobs available, but just as many beautiful faces competing for the jobs. But you can become a full-figured model if you want to and if you follow a few basic steps.

Things You'll Need

• Photographs
• Pretty face
• Well-proportioned body

Instructions

1. Think about why you want to be a model. Is it because everyone has said you have a pretty face? Do you enjoy the attention? Do you love being photographed?Once you have examined why you want to be a model, make sure those reasons are in line with the demands of modeling. Can you sit for hours on end? Are you patient? Are you willing to do whatever it takes to get a good photo? Are you persistent? Can you take rejection?Working as a plus-size model can be tough. You might have to endure a lot of rejection or ignorance. You might deal with some mean comments from other models. You have to believe in yourself and have enough confidence to take all that in stride.Having said all that, however, remember that this is one part of the modeling industry that’s booming. As more Americans wear plus-size clothing, there’s more of a demand for good full-figured models. That’s where you come in.

2. Now, think about your body size and shape. Most successful full-figured models are between 5 feet 7 and 5 feet 11. They are usually between a size 12 and a 16. Some models are a size 18. Rarely are models larger than a size 18.Although any body shape is OK for plus-size modeling, most models are well-proportioned and have either an angular shape or a slight pear shape. Because clothes tend to hang and drape better when there are fewer curves, less curvy models are more desirable over models with dramatically curvy silhouettes.

3. You must have pictures to become a model. If you can afford it, have professional pictures taken of yourself. If you can’t, have a friend take some high-quality photos of you against either a black or white background.At the minimum, you should have a full-body shot, a headshot, one photo that best shows your full smile, and a swimsuit shot (you can substitute a pair of shorts and a tank top if you’re more comfortable with that).Make sure that your hair is well-styled and your skin clear, blemish-free and healthy looking. Place the photos in a portfolio (available at most art supply stores) and add to the collection when you can (you can add photos from paid modeling work as you move through your career).

4. Look into local modeling agencies. Find out which ones are looking for or that book plus-size models. Find out (either by calling or consulting their websites) when they have open calls. Open calls are when the modeling agency meets with models who aren’t yet represented by an agency. When you go to the open call, bring your portfolio. Wear your best professional yet appropriate clothes, and wear an appropriate amount of makeup. The plus-size model agents want to see what your skin and body look like, so don’t cover either with too much makeup or clothing.If there are no local agencies to visit at open calls, send the nearest relevant agencies a package containing your photos and a letter of introduction. Some agencies will also accept photos via email.

5. Know all your sizes. You should know your pant size, blouse size, dress size, shoe size. You will be asked this question by modeling agencies.

6. Finally, follow up with the modeling agency if you don’t hear back. You can do this via email or standard mail (but don’t call unless asked to).Thank the agency for its time, and reiterate your desire to work for it. Be sure to consider any tips the modeling agents give you. If they suggest you lose weight, try to do that. If they suggest you should keep your hair shorter (or longer, or more blond), try to do that as well. They know what the advertisers and clients want in their models the best, and it’s your job to try to provide it.Keep going to open calls or sending your information to modeling agencies. It could take some time before you get the response you’re looking for.

Tips & Warnings

• When you go to open calls, dress as classically as you can while still being current. Stay away from clothes that are too trendy.

• Keep yourself well-groomed. Shave your legs, keep your nails neat and make sure your skin is clear and bright.

• You should never have to pay a modeling agency to represent you.