How to Become a Successful Model

Many women aspire to be a successful model for the exciting career path, celebrity status, fashionable clothes, possible wealth and jet-setting job opportunities. However, the journey to a modeling career can be a long, difficult and frustrating one due to heavy competition and rigorous modeling beauty standards. Following a few key steps will help any potential model build a career from inexperienced to established.

Instructions

1. Study the modeling industry. It can be an emotional challenge to break into the business, so careful analysis and introspective awareness will help you decide if this is the right career choice for you. Examine the reality of the modeling business. There is high competition from other (and more experienced) models and exhausting judicial standards of beauty. Very few models develop a long-term, successful and glamorous career. Analyze the different types of modeling: high-fashion, runway, print, commercial, fitness and artistic. Each field defines beauty in different ways and has varied standards for height, weight and body measurement requirements. It is easier to get a modeling job in certain fields--such as catalog and commercial--and is healthier for long-term success.

2. Analyze your modeling strengths. Take a realistic look at what you have to offer. Have beautiful hands? Consider hand modeling for products, web videos, commercials and infomercials. A fit, defined physique? Consider fitness modeling for athletic training equipment, health shakes or sportswear. A unique physical look? Companies need models of all types--from punk looks to balding hair--to sell diverse products. Access your specific features and look into brands that may benefit from your modeling services.

3. Get high-quality head shots taken from a credible, professional photographer. Research and find a local photographer that knows the modeling industry, who will take several photos of you in different looks and can produce a comp card (a modeling business card). Ask a photographer for references and portfolio samples, and be prepared to spend upwards of $300, depending on the photographer's experience, photo package rates and popularity.

4. Build your modeling portfolio. Look for jobs online, in the newspaper and by contacting companies directly. Have your comp card readily available at all times, as you never know when you will have the opportunity to network. Additionally, practice positive behaviors for a successful modeling career: act professional at all times, demonstrate a positive and strong work ethic, arrive on time to booked jobs and take care of yourself physically, emotionally, spiritually and mentally.

5. Get an agent. Once you've established a brief modeling history, created a portfolio and have professional comp cards, consider approaching a modeling agency. Do your research to avoid scam artists. A modeling agency will give a model credibility, job opportunities and essential career advice. Read all contracts carefully before you sign anything, and call an attorney if you are unsure of the fine print.

Tips & Warnings

• Take care of your body by eating right and exercising--it is a business asset in the modeling world.

• Prepare yourself for many more rejections than acceptances. It's a fact of life in the modeling industry.