model

[jen012]

hi, im not really sure if I do want to do modelling but people keep telling me that i should as i am really tall and slim.what do I have to do though to start a career in it?do u get well payed for magazine modelling etc. ? thanks x

[Andy008]

Contact Paul Raymond publications.

[tetherend]

I know the feeling jen, people keep telling me I should go to Hollywood.  They think the walk would do me good.

[Scarlett]

It is not just tallness and slimness that makes a model-- quite the reverse in fact! These days personality goes a long way. did you watch the Next American Top model on Sky? That sums it all up really. You have to be able to act,  "feel" on camera, and be a bit of a chameleon too. Get some nice pics taken of yourslef- wearing NO make up, (and don't bother with fancy pics, just a normal camera will do) and send them to some agencies. See what they say!

[sam82]

being a model is a very cut throat industry (by the looks of it) ...there was a reality programme on channel 4 called model behaviour...i think u would need to be very secure about your self.

but if its what you decide good luck

[cre]

I've been a model since I was in my early 20's and I'm 34 now and still going strong. Yes, I agee it's not just about looks - personality goes a long way too.

I suggest you take some snap shots - natural, not too much makeup - head shot, profile, full - body shot in swimwear and maybe something casual. Not too 'posy'...take them into a few reputable agencies on their open days. If they are interested they will send you to do some 'test' photo's with a photographer - you should not have to pay for these. If you have potential. the agency will  take the cost from the first job you do.

It is a lucrative business if you have a good agency and a good attitude. It can be hard work and you have to be prepared for a lot of rejections. Magazines don;t pay so well, but shows can and catalogues, print ads and commercials can make you a lot of money.

Some models don't manage their careers so well and have no goals and waste their money, wind up with no education and no money, while others balance study and modelling, 'milk' the industry while they can, get out and move on to a 'real' job. I've managed to survive in the industry this long because I have moved around the world to find the markets that I work in best and have invested my money in property.

I believe you have to be proactive and ambitious and really WANT to get up each day and do your job to make a success of it. I wish you luck - don't give up till you've knocked on at least a few doors..the first few agencies I called in Sydney told me I was too old to start at 21, and too short at 5'8" and didn't even invite me in to meet them. They would be eating their words now if they knew I was still going 13 years on!

Good luck and let us know how you go!