How to Become a Teen Model

Becoming a model is the dream of many young girls, but it’s not all glamour and fun. Modeling is hard work that requires a high level of self-esteem, common sense and confidence. Breaking into the modeling business is not easy, but there are ways to get yourself noticed and prepare yourself for your big break. If you want to become a young model, here are some things to consider.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Good grooming Good quality photographs Local experience

How to Be a Teen Model

1. Prepare your look. Although you may be naturally beautiful, you want to make the most of your looks by polishing them up before you have photographs taken. Get your hair styled by an experienced stylist, clear up any blemishes and groom nails for a finished look.

2. Learn light and natural makeup application. Go to a professional to learn some basic light make up techniques to get yourself ready for your photographs. Businesses like Sephora or Merle Norman will teach you makeup application that is age-appropriate

3. Invest in good photographs. Hire a professional to provide you with head shots and a variety of poses to begin to build your portfolio. You’ll want some “glamour” shots, some natural outdoors looks as well as full body and head shots. Once you get signed to an agency you should not have to pay for additional photos.

4. Create an introductory models “card.” You’ll want to create a sheet that has your head shot, plus a variety of your best looks as well as your “stats,” including your height, weight, age and any experience you already have. Include your phone number, email address and home address as well.

5. Take part in local beauty pageants to build your confidence. Beauty pageants can be controversial for this age group, but they do help build confidence and allow girls to gain some experience in front of an audience. State fairs and local festivals have pageants for local teens, so start there.

6. Build your portfolio with small local jobs. Offer your services in exchange for experience and photographs to local businesses or advertising agencies. Get your face on local brochures, newspaper ads and billboards for small businesses and add those jobs to your resume and portfolio.

7. Be a photographer's model. Many college students and new photographers also need to build their portfolios, so offer to pose and share prints as pay. This helps build both your portfolio and modeling experience. Have a parent go along to supervise.

8. Find a good modeling agency for children. Skip the no-names and stick to legitimate modeling agencies like Ford Models and Wilhelmina. Visit their businesses or send them images per their website instructions.

Tips & Warnings

• Follow photo submission guidelines of modeling agencies to the letter to make sure your submissions are seen and responded to.
• Don’t post images on the Internet, as they can sometimes attract the wrong attention. Keep a private website updated with professional images to share with agencies but not for public views. Don’t pay for a modeling agent. Agents work on commissions gained from your jobs, and agencies that require you to spend money are usually not legit.