Learning How to Be a Model: Just as Important As How to Become One

You’ve seen all the great models. They have a look about them that just breathes and practically screams: I know how wonderful I am and I know how wonderful you think I am. Many young and aspiring models make the mistake early on of believing that this image translates to personality, poise, and general demeanour of a model at all times, in all places, and for all things. But when you’re learning to become a model and you want to land a job, it’s important to recognize that the industry is getting tougher in terms of competition and knowing the truth behind the photos, the scenes, and the paparazzi could make or break your career before it ever truly begins. Eventually, while trying to become a big time model, you’ll get your first shoot. This shoot may determine whether you are able to get more jobs in the future and continue working as a model. Some of the most important things to remember on the shoot are:

• Never lie. Not about your measurements, your height, your weight, or anything else. Stylists prepare for your arrival in advance. If you say you’re a full dress size smaller than you actually are in order to land the gig, you’re going to be fired from the shoot and earn a bad reputation that could end your career without a single photo ever being snapped of you.

• Remember that you are not a supermodel, you have not earned your place in the industry, and that the people working with you are not working for you. The people you work with on your first shoots are the people who talk about you behind your back to other companies and photographers. What they say about you behind your back is entirely up to you.

• Don’t think you can show up whenever you want. There’s no such thing as being fashionably late. Being late is unprofessional and rude. This goes for your interview to get hired at an agency and all modelling gigs you have.

• Remember to keep your relationships professional but still develop relationships. Don’t date your photographers. But always be networking so you can reach out for help, mentoring, and jobs when you are looking to branch out. Photographers are the gateway to success. But don’t forget their assistants and the other people roaming around the shoot, too. Invaluable resources are everywhere you turn.

• Don’t forget that it’s a real job. As with all jobs, your attitude, work ethic, abilities, and continued progression determine how far you will get in the modelling industry, whether you will get other jobs, and whether you might get fired.

• Keep it together, mentally and in terms of organization. You have to know your schedule so you can accept gigs, even at the last minute.

Remember, becoming a model is a real job like any other, with ups and downs, and you’ve got to know how to work it!