How to Become a Model Without Training

If you're young and attractive, tall and slender, you meet the basic requirements to become a fashion model. But you also need to market yourself well, get noticed in modeling circles and be in the right places at the right times. Here are some tips on how to present yourself, how to find an agency and how to let the world know about your talent.

Instructions

1. Invest in professional photographs. Follow the accepted format: an 8 1/2-by-11 inch black-and-white picture on one side with information about you on the other side (a contact number, plus things like height, weight, age, eye and hair color). Make sure the photo is all about you--keep everything else simple. Use a plain background, apply light makeup and wear a bathing suit or other form-fitting attire.

2. Send your photograph to modeling agencies, and/or participate in an agency's open call (a free showcase for aspiring models). Signing with an agency is a big step forward. In exchange for a commission on what you earn, the agency develops your career and your image, helps you become known and--most importantly--helps you find jobs (see Resources below).

3. Attend a modeling convention or a model search. You'll pay to enter these, but you'll learn how things work and make valuable contacts. Modeling agencies can tell you when and where these events take place.

4. Post your own profile online (see Resources below). You register with a modeling website and post your photos and contact information; model scouts peruse the site and get in touch with you if they like what they see.

Tips & Warnings

• Stay away from unscrupulous photographers and agencies that charge fees higher than the norm. Stay further away from any "professional" who asks you to pose nude or in compromising positions.

Resources

• Post your modeling profile online.
• Learn how to pose for photographs.
• Modeling agencies directory