How to Become a Ford Model

Ford Model Chanel Iman Robinson

Ford Models is arguably one of the biggest and best-known modeling agencies in the world. Started by Eileen and Jerry Ford in 1946, this agency represents industry names like Stephanie Seymour, Chanel Iman, Lakshmi Menon and AJ Abualrub. With modeling divisions including parts, plus, fitness, kids and runway, this agency holds a deserved spot as a beauty trendsetter.

Things You'll Need

• Digital camera Measuring tape Resume of relevant modeling experience (if any)

Instructions

Online Application

1. Research the Ford agency to see what kinds of models it is representing, and choose the division to which you'd like to apply. Narrowing down your focus will be a big help in deciding whether Ford will be a good fit.

2. Be honest with yourself and take stock of your looks and body. Ford is stringent about their stable of models, with most women over 5 foot 9 inches in height with very slender frames (except for the fitness and plus divisions) and men over 5 feet 10 inches with slender but defined muscles. They're notorious for being picky, and they can be; they get thousands of emails and packages from hopefuls.

3. Visit the Ford Models website and click on the link at the bottom that says "Become a Model". Select "Apply Now" from the pop-up menu.

4. Fill out the requested information on the form after reading the User Agreement for the website (link located at the bottom under "Apply Process and Rules"). Use the tape measure to take your measurements for the pull-down boxes. Be honest about these numbers.

5. For the photos, follow the instructions in the submission guidelines PDF for proper technique. Ford doesn't want poses or professional shots. Wear snug clothing in solid colors and shoot against a wall or bed sheet with no makeup. Remember to vary the mood and to smile in some of the pictures.

6. Press "Submit" to finish the application.

Open Call in New York City

1. Visit the website and click on "Become a Model" at the bottom of the page. Note that the open calls are in New York City from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., and that only women 5 feet 8 inches and above, and 14 to 21 years of age are welcome.

2. Wear slim-fitting clothing in solid colors, and bring several nonprofessional photographs. They request full-length, profile and straight-on portrait shots only.

3. Arrive early. The open calls attract many hopefuls, and some wait for hours before the doors open.

4. Be patient. There will be lots of waiting and standing around while the scouts search through all the faces. If you're turned away, be gracious, and try sending your information through the website for other divisions.

Supermodel of the World

1. To enter Ford's "Supermodel of the World" discovery contest, click on the "Become a Model" link at the bottom of the page. Select "Supermodel of the World" from the pull-down menu.

2. Read the introductory page for the contest. Entrants must be between 16 and 21 years of age to enter. Click on the large red button to proceed to the application page.

3. Scroll to the bottom of the page, and click on "Application Process and Rules" to read the entry agreement. When you're done, go back to the application.

4. Fill out all requested information. For the pictures, take photographs in slim-fitting clothing: one full-length, one close-up with no smile and one close-up with a smile. Upload these. When you're finished, press the red "Submit" button.

Resources

• Models.com: Ford Models Profile
• Ford Models