How to Start in the Modeling Industry

A career in the modeling industry can be creatively and financially rewarding.

A modeling career can be profitable and creatively rewarding. But getting started in the modeling industry can be challenging, depending on where you live and the availability of modeling jobs. Regardless of the obstacles, it's not impossible to get a start in the modeling industry. Hard work, determination and the desire to use your talents to build a career in modeling are essential.

Things You'll Need

• Portfolio
• Photographs
• Biography
• Resume
• Agent

Instructions

1. Build a portfolio. Building a professional portfolio is essential and should be an ongoing process that begins as soon as you decide you want to pursue a career in modeling. A professional portfolio consists of several components. These include 8 x 10 glossy photographs, a biography and a resume. Your resume should be updated regularly, taking into account each modeling job you complete. Your portfolio is the key to your career. You will present it to agents for representation consideration and to potential clients. Keep your portfolio current and try to make it as diversified as possible. Your photographs should be around five of your best shots, including a close-up head shot. The biography should say who you are and list some of your interests to give prospective clients an idea about your personality. Your resume should include your professional jobs, contest wins and any performance notes that might help potential clients judge your suitability for a job.

2. Find representation. Modeling agencies will take a percentage of what you earn, but only on the jobs they get for you. The cut the agency earns, which can range from 10 to 15 percent, is worth it. Professional modeling agencies can open doors that you may not be able to open yourself, particularly if you don't live in one of the major modeling cities (Paris, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago). You can find many modeling agencies to choose from online (see Resources).

3. Take as much modeling work as you can get. Regardless of where you live, there may be opportunities that can help you build your modeling portfolio. In a small town, opportunities may be limited. But even limited activities such as participating in a local pageant or play can be good starting points in your portfolio.

4. Move to one of the major modeling cities if you can. While this may not be possible for everyone, if you're serious about a modeling career, moving to a city where there are more jobs is something that will need to be considered. While you might be able to break into the world of glamour from your small town, there's no substitute for being in the middle of the market.

References

• Joe Edelman: What Make a Great Modeling Portfolio
• Job Monkey: How to Find Modeling Jobs

Resources

• Bob Pardue: Find a Modeling Agency by State