Getting Started in Modeling:

This guide will help you in understanding the modeling world to the maximum. First of all question yourself - Do you really want to become a model? That's a question that really only you can answer. Now, of course, there are always people that have terrible looks or problems that make it impossible for them to ever obtain the skills necessary, but actually almost anyone can be a model. It doesn't matter if your male or female, young or old, fat or skinny, black, white or even polka dotted - you could have a place in modeling.

REMEMBER THAT MODELING IS:

• Glamorous
• Fun
• Exciting
• Extremely Lucrative

But also is

• Lots of Hard work
• Competitive

Models....

Have the stamina for long hours of hard work.

Be able to handle stress

Have enough confidence

Be emotionally stable

No to drugs

Clear Complexion

Before thinking about your wardrobe and portfolio, you should decide which activities interest you in each modeling category. For example, Glamour Modeling ranges from posing in evening dresses, to posing in lingerie or swim-wear, to posing seminude or nude. You ought to determine what you would do and not do in the Glamour Modeling category. To get a clearer idea of what activities are typical in each category, refer to the table below. The first column of the table lists the categories, and the other columns show percentages for each activity. Before accepting any modeling assignment, make sure you find out exactly what kind of modeling you will be asked to do

Every model over 18 years old, even a High Fashion model, sooner or later is asked if she will pose in the nude. Some of the most famous actresses and models began their careers with well done nude modeling - particularly in respected publications such as Playboy or Penthouse. Unlike modeling in lingerie or bathing suits, nude modeling still has a stigma attached to it. Many models do not pose in the nude for this reason. As a consequence, the pay rate can be twice as high (or higher) for nude modeling. Centerfold models in Playboy are paid $25,000, and those selected as "Playmate of The Year" earn a cool $100,000 bonus plus endorsements.

Most often, the client or photographer doing the photography is a serious professional that will treat you with respect and take care that you enjoy the experience and not go away regretful or embarrassed. However, others may have ulterior motives. Regardless, anyone considering nude modeling should keep the following issues in mind. If you sign a model release without carefully studying its content, your image could turn up anywhere at any time, even though this was not your intention. Usually, modeling agencies advise their beginning models not to pose in the nude, or at least carefully evaluate model releases for all their models.

While nude modeling is most often very high paying, and can be quite often a lot of fun, you should also consider your future goals. If you have the looks and desire to become a high fashion model, TV or movie star, be very careful of the type of nude model work you agree to do. Most figure work or even solo erotic modeling will not harm future careers, but if you're considering stepping up to more erotic or "action" types of modeling, these can and do affect futures. The example of Vanessa Williams should be considered here: she lost her Miss America crown after very explicit photos of her (taken many years earlier) surfaced in a national magazine. If you have such lofty goals, you shouldn't agree to do anything more than tastefully done fine art or other solo nude work - action work should be avoided.

If, on the other hand, you're uninhibited about being photographed nude, and you're in it mostly for the money, by all means go for it and enjoy yourself. Many thousands of women (and men) have put together very large bank accounts and secured their futures almost entirely on nude modeling, erotic dancing, etc.

Before agreeing to model nude however, be sure to check out the laws in your state. Photographers are governed by strict laws regarding keeping of records, and some local ordinances may prohibit any kind of figure work, even though the Supreme Court has already ruled that it is legal. They still left it in the hands of local governments to decide. In some states, even suggestive poses and simulated masturbation are considered "educational material". In other states they would violate that state's obscenity laws. In most states, x-rated photos such as actual or even simulated sex acts are illegal. Don't set yourself up for trouble just to make money. Be sure you're protected.

All models must mail out a professional portfolio package (comp card, headshot, ZED card) to casting directors and agencies. Models are required to go through various photo shoots and create a modeling portfolio. Putting together a portfolio is an absolute MUST for every aspiring model! The portfolio should include a number of photos and a resume. Comp Cards or ZED cards are popular types of modeling portfolios, and usually contain 4-7 body poses. Some established photographers have reliable connections, which could lead to a modeling job right away. Your resume must include your current contact information, your height, size, weight, measurements, previous training and recent work. Professionals hire based on your modeling exposure and experience. The key to your success is to select a well-established photographer who can capture your best features to help create a more exotic look.

Agencies can provide you with professional photographers at your request, or you can find your own. Following are some questions you need to ask photographers before you shot with them:

1. What is the price for the shooting?

2. Are you shooting color or black and white?

3. Are you shooting in slide (transparency) or negative?

4. What is the price per 36 -exposure, color/B&W roll?

5. Does this price include contact sheet / prints / quantity?

6. What is the price per 8x10 / 9x12.5 glossy, color / B&W print?

7. Does this price include make-up and hairstyles?

8. If not, what is the price per hour for such services?

9. Are you shooting in the studio or on location, or both?

10. Is there an extra charge for going on location?

11. Who owns the negatives or slides?

When you pose for your portfolio photographs, not only are you building a portfolio, but also you are gaining valuable experience as a model. Therefore, before you choose a photographer, make sure that:

• You won't be rushed. A beginner's portfolio might take up to six hours, if done in one session.
• The photographer takes Polaroid or digital shots in order to check your makeup. This is a regular practice in most modeling jobs.
• You do your own makeup. In most beginning and intermediate modeling jobs, there is no makeup artist, and so you are expected to do your own makeup.
• You are to get all the proofs. Modeling agencies and clients often like to evaluate the proofs before hiring a model.
• A medium-format or digital camera is to be used for the closeups.
• The photographer plans to use plenty of film, about five rolls of 35-millimeter, plus at least one roll of 6X6- or 6X7-centimeter for closeups.
• There is to be no touching-up of the photographs. Touched-up images are useless to the modeling agencies. Besides, photographs without touch-up are much less expensive than portrait photographs.
• You are given ample opportunity to work on your hair and makeup every time you change into another outfit.
• The photographer varies his style and alters the backgrounds, so that the photographs do not appear too uniform.
• The photographer has the capability to convert photographs into scanned digital images. The popularity of the Internet's modeling agencies is multiplying every month.
• The total cost of the portfolio is up front. For example, get an estimate for five hours' sitting fee, plus your selection of ten 8X10 prints, plus five scanned images.

HINT: When looking for a photographer, don't just use the yellow pages. Visit a few photo stores, camera clubs, etc., and ask the personnel if they can recommend a good model-portfolio photographer. Many photographers convert a section of their homes into a studio. With much lower overhead, they can pass on part of the savings to you.

You need to select an agent or manager, whichever is right for you.
You can do so by simply sending out your picture and resume to all
the agents/managers in your area. They will call you back if they are impressed with your picture and interested in representing you. Every major city has well-established talent agencies and management groups. Contact a few different agencies/managers and find out what they require. The key to success is retaining an agent/manager who is well-established and experienced! Ask for references and credentials before signing any contracts. We advise you to work under a non-exclusive 1-2 year contract in order to make certain your agent/manager performs professionally.

Types of Agencies:

Fashion / Editorial Modeling Agencies

Fashion or editorial Modeling agencies are the types of agencies that represent editorial or high fashion models.

Commercial Modeling Agencies

Commercial Modeling agencies are the types of agencies that represent commercial models.

Rather than booking jobs for Vogue magazine and other high fashion editorial magazines, commercial agencies book jobs for clients who may be promoting items such as household goods, automobiles, hardware, baby items, cosmetics and many other items that people use on a daily basis.

Fitness Modeling Agencies

There are very few agencies that specialize in only fitness models. Most agencies that represent fitness models are commercial Modeling agencies that have a fitness division.

Parts Modeling Agencies

Parts Modeling agencies are agencies that specialize in hand Modeling, foot Modeling, leg Modeling and other types of body part Modeling.

Plus Size Modeling Agencies

The need for plus size models is more in demand than ever before and it is an area of the industry that is growing more than any other.

There are however, very few agencies that specialize in just plus size models and most of the agencies that do are commercial or fashion Modeling agencies that have a plus size division in addition to their other divisions.

Once you have completed your research, call and make the appointment. Follow the step-by-step procedure defined in this guide for the best results. On the day of the interview, ask questions. Just as the agent will ask you questions, you, too, must find out as much information as you can. You and your agent should agree on your career strategy. Here are some basic questions to ask:

1. How would you market me?

2. Are you going to promote me in the USA or internationally?

3. Can I do print, runway, TV Commercials, etc?

4. How much money will I have to invest immediately and in the long term?

5. Do you think I will get work quickly?

6. Do you think I need to change my hair style, lose weight, etc?

7. How much commission do you take?

8. How do I get paid?

9. What are the rates?

10. Do you require exclusive or non-exclusive contracts?

11. What are the terms on the contract?

12. How long is the contract term?

13. Are you going to find my work part time or full time?

14. How soon do you pay talent after you get paid from the client?

15. Are there any hidden costs?

16. Do I have to take any classes or seminars? If yes, why?

Just because a specific agency is considered to be the best for other people does not meat that it is going to be the best agency for you. Search until you find the best for your particular requirements

Let's face it - there are a lot of people out there that make a very good living by preying on your dreams. There are just as many honest and reputable people that will try very hard to help you succeed. But if you don't know how to spot one from the other, you'll most likely be their next victim.

Some signs are subtle and require some experience to recognize. Others are very obvious. here's a brief idea of some of the things you should watch out for

• Charges an advance fee, or "registration" fee.
• Places nonspecific ads in the Help Wanted columns in newspapers, such as "M/F models wanted, no experience necessary."
• Uses a name which sounds similar to a well-known agency or person.
• Displays pictures of famous models in the office, even though they have never been represented.
• Schedules appointments for after-work hours, perhaps in your home.
• Pressures you to leave a cash deposit, or wants you to sign a contract immediately.
• Doesn't answer questions about the specifics of a modeling job.
• Asks you to have more photographs taken by a certain photographer, perhaps demanding a deposit for the photographs and payment of the balance before you have even seen the photographs. Unfortunately, some non-reputable firms make all their money from this forced photography.
• Some modeling agencies also run modeling schools. These schools may be quite good. However, know that you don't have to attend a modeling school in order to become a model. Mediocre modeling schools are a waste of time and money. If the agent insists that you must attend their school, leave. He is most likely not actually an agent, but rather a scout for the school!
• Makes promises as to your possible success or future. Guarantees he can "make you a star". Reputable agencies will immediately tell you that while they may think you have potential, they can make no promises as to any possible future success. That of course, is up to you.
  Pay Rate: (Money Matters !)

  The size of your paycheck depends upon your experience, how long you have been in the business, and type of work an assignment calls for. As you can image, there are many different kinds of modeling. Smart Spendings: Portfolio - Rs. 6,000-20,000 Photographs/ reprints - Rs. 1,000-2000 Model's bag - Rs. 350 to Rs. 500 Basic make-up - Rs.800 Underwear and tights - Rs. 1,000 Body stocking - Rs. 250 -Rs. 450 Black high heeled shoes - Rs.900 Black pumps - Rs. 350 Walking shoes for doing the rounds -Rs. 550 to Rs.1500 Clothes - Rs. 3,500 Passport - Rs. 1,000 Print modeling for advertisement includes commercials or trade publications, fashion and non-fashion, lingerie, swimsuit, nude, billboard, newspaper, catalog, slide shows and other high-exposure works. Live fashion modeling includes runway, showroom, trade shows, floor shows, trade fairs, informal shows, retail, etc. Union and Non-Union broadcast and industrial modeling includes television commercials, films, industrial training films, stage and theatricals, radio and television voice-overs. It is possible to make from $10 to $250 per hour, depending on your experience, popularity and where you live. New models can expect to start at: Children: $10 to $75 per hour or $150 to $1,000 per day; Juniors: $10 to $75 per hour or $150 to $1,500 per day; Young Men/Women: $10 to $125 per hour or $150 to $2,000 per day;

  As one becomes recognized, the rates can be significantly higher. Keep in mind that the high end of the scale happens only on special occasions and depends on the market's interest in the individual.

  FIRST THREE MONTHS AFTER COMPLETING YOUR BASIC PORTFOLIO:
  If you are accepted by a modeling agency, expect to be sent out for many test shots. If you are free lancing, try to get as many test shots as possible. Either way, don't expect to make any money during the first three months.

  AFTER THREE MONTHS:
  By this time, agencies should start sending you to paying jobs. They will negotiate your fee with the client. If you are a Freelance Model, you have to negotiate your own fee. Depending on supply and demand, set your fee for about $75 an hour, with a two-hour minimum per session. However, it might be beneficial to accept a lower rate, if the duration of the job is longer than two hours.

  After this beginning period, your pay rate should rise steadily, and the number of jobs should increase overall.. Typically in the modeling industry, there are busy and lean periods, even for experienced models. When busy, don't forget to save for leaner times.

  GENERAL RULE:
  Pay rates vary greatly between metropolitan areas and on a seasonal basis. Therefore, it is hard to pin down exact pay rates. Try to find out what the other models are making for similar jobs in your area, and set your rates accordingly.

  
  Portfolios:

• Based on the type of market and fashion you want to do, begin to put your book together based on the type of client you want to work with. Utilizing ideas given by agencies and clients, formulate your portfolio.

  All agencies produce Model Books which are an excellent way of showing off their models around the world. The books are generally produced twice a year and only top models are chosen to be in it. The cost of the book varies with black/white or color and quantity.

  New models are presented on a Head Sheet, a poster sized sheet with small head shots of each model. These head sheets are compiled every three months, with the cost varying with black/white or color and quantity produced. The Head Sheet is sent to photographers and all potential clients to introduce new models.

  Although on your own you won't be included in a Model Book or on a Head Sheet, you can still effectively market yourself with composite cards. These, too, can be sent to clients around the world. And also feel free to send them to professional photographers with whom you would like to work.

  As you begin to put your book together, you'll have to use any photos you've got, but remember that each portfolio should have its own grouping of pictures based on client need. Keep extra copies of your photographs in case an agency or client wants you to mail them or wants to keep your portfolio for review. Additionally, if you have limited photos, you must keep a list of the photos included so you can speak intelligently with each client.

  This is why it's important to keep your pictures in plastic pages so they won't become worn. Place the photos in a portfolio case which can be bought at most photo supply stores as well as some larger office supply houses.

  A mini-book is a 3x5 book of photos of your original 8x10s. It's less expensive to mail and is just as good as your larger version.

  Be sure to label each photograph with your name and contact information

  The usual size of photographs in a big portfolio is 9x12, although the 8x10 size is somewhat easier to carry around. Remember, professional portfolio photographs are enclosed in plastic pages, and you will need to carry some composite cards and one sheet of your best slides with you.
  Do not carry anything else in your book.

  
  Resumes:

  When you submit your photograph to a client or agency, it is helpful to submit your resume at the same time. Here are suggestions of what it should contain:

  * Name

  * Agency (if any)

  * Address and phone (if you don't have an agent or manager)

  * Height, weight

  * Bust, waist, hips, neck measurements

  * Hair and eye color

  * Dress and shoe size

  * Inseam

  * Coat size

  * Training: Include your formal education, courses you have
  taken in modeling, acting, dancing, etc.

  * Experience: Photo sessions, shows, commercials, acting
  parts, television, motion pictures, etc.

  * Special talents
  

  SAMPLE RESUME:

  NAME - LAST NAME
  
  AGENCY NAME, Address, Tel:
  or
  Your Address and phone (if you don't have an agent or manager)

  Height: 5'6" / Voice: mezzo
  Eyes: Brown / Hair: Black
  Resume Tips:

  Tips:

• Don't lie about anything!

• Never put "extra" work on a resume.

• Don't put the dates of productions next to the credits.

• It is not necessary to list an actor's specific roles on TV and films.

• Have your printer cut your resume to measure 8x10 to fit with your head shot.

• Attach your resume to your photograph with two staples at the top.

• Don't list an age range.

• If you are free-lancing, or you are doing it on your own, be sure to include contact information on the resume.

• If you don't have an agent to represent you, get a personal logo for yourself.

  
  Residuals:

   

   

  A residual is the extra pay, on a sliding scale, that you receive every time your commercial is shown. It is pay in addition to the original amount you receive for your time in producing the commercial. Your base pay can be low, but what boosts that wage are residuals. Residuals are based on how many times your commercials are shown in a 13-Monthperiod, and on what stations your commercials are aired.

  
  
  Interview / GO SEES:

  Early doesn't count late does! It does not matter if you sign in early. However, if you're late for an appointment, the hour will only begin from the time of your arrival.

  A Go-See is simply an appointment arranged by the model or actor/actress (or by the agency). It is an opportunity for the model or actor/actress to interview with clients such as magazine editors, art directors, casting directors, catalogue houses, and the people who make TV commercials and movies.

  An active model may spend an entire day going from one go-see to another. Agencies provide models with forms telling the name of the firm, person to see, time of appointment and type of assignment.

  Be as organized as an agency! Provide this same information for yourself. When you have assignments typed neatly on a sheet of paper, you'll feel like a professional right from the start.

  In the beginning, these interviews may cause a certain amount of tension, but they become easier as you gain confidence and experience.

  
  
  Getting to know the RULES:

  1. Be on time. PLEASE arrive at least 5 minutes early for a go-see; 30 minutes early for a fashion show; 15 minutes early for a photo session.

  2. Go alone. No friends or boyfriends; and bring your parents only if you are under age.

  3. No smoking, drinking or eating while on assignment.

  4. Do not sit while modeling client's clothing.

  5. Follow directions explicitly unless asked to model in poor taste.

  6. No scented perfumes or colognes when on a booking.

  7. Always wear under-arm shields when on assignment.

  8. Use a cosmetic hood, or scarf over the head and face during clothing changes.

  9. Should a garment become soiled or damaged, report it immediately.

  10. Always hang each garment back on the hanger with zippers zipped and buttons buttoned.

  11. Be professional; do not comment about the clothing are asked to model. Do not socialize.

  12. Clean up after yourself before leaving.

  13. If you a damage a product, you must pay for it.

  14. Always ask before using anything that does not belong to you.

  15. Take a book along to pass the time while waiting.

  16. Always take your tote-bag.

  17. Watch your step while waling on or off the set.

  18. Do not chew gum (or tobacco) in the studio or on a go-see.

  19. Only use the phone for emergencies; make all calls brief.

  20. Come prepared with a voucher for every assignment.

  21. Return your voucher within 24 hours after completion of assignment.

  22. Do not discuss fees with the client while on the job. All negotiations should be completed before the assignment!

  23. Know what your fees are before going on assignment.

  24. Do not leave a booking, even if something unusual occurs.

  25. Lunch breaks should be discussed with the client (or agency) before you report for the job.

  26. Look perfectly neat and clean at all times.

  27. The model must call the agency (if there is one) after every booking.

  28. A model who is not available for a booking must book out.

  29. If you choose to use an agency, never call a client or studio directly about work.

  30. Models and actors and their parents should never discuss interviews, jobs or earnings with other models or actors.

  31. Never give your home address or phone number to anyone.

  32. The pay rate for an assignment is per hour per assignment.

  33. When working with an agency, make your business visits brief. Avoid the temptation to linger to socialize with other models.

  34. Agency phones are not for private use.

  35. When calling clients (or an agency if you use one) routinely identify yourself and state your reason for calling.

  36. Models and actors are responsible for all costs associated with locating suitable employment including the cost of mailing, overnight messengers, inner-city messengers, overseas phone calls, telexes, portfolios and composites.

  37. Never apologize for lack of experience, your physical appearance, etc.

  38. Never argue with the client.

  39. A model not showing for a booking or late for a booking, not only you are losing the hourly rate...you will also have to pay for the other models who have had to wait for you and you're liable for the day's full production costs.

  40. Not showing for a trip includes liability for all travel, flight and hotel costs, plus fees incurred by the client, photographers, stylist, other models, etc.

  Once the commitment to modeling or acting is made, it helps to develop a measure of patience. It takes a while to become established and although you are ready to be discovered, the world must first find out who you are!

  
  
  Helpful Info:

  There is a need for every age, size, figure and type. Because there are different types of modeling, and each type or style demands a different look or size or age, you may not be the right type to meet one requirement, but may be perfect for another. High fashion may not be for you, but commercials may be exactly what you're suited for! Remember the following:

  � Fashion Modeling - Wholesale, retail, salon, tearoom, runway

  � Photographic Modeling - Magazines, newspapers, catalogues, brochures, billboards

  � Television & Motion Picture Modeling - Television, commercials, soaps, shows, movies

  � Promotional Modeling - Exhibits, conventions

  And you never know until you actually start in the field where you'll find the most success. It's common to start with one and get into another or even do well in more than one. Ages and sizes include:

  � Pre-Teen Children - Five to twelve years old; children's sizes 5 to 12;

  � Junior Miss - Thirteen to seventeen years old; junior sizes 3 to 8;

  � Missy - Seventeen to twenty-two years old; 5'6" to 5'10.5" in height;

  � High Fashion -Eighteen to thirty-five years old; 5'9" to 6" in height;

  � Petite - Any age over thirteen; 5'2" to 5'7"; sizes 1 to 5;

  � Large Size - Usually over thirty years old; sizes 12 to 18; 5'7" to5'11";

  � Senior Sophisticate - Over forty years old; 5'6" to 5'10.5"; sizes 8 to 16;

  � Children - Babies are needed for commercials, and every age below 12 years is used;

  � Men - Sixteen years and over; 5'11" to 6'2"; sizes 40R to 44R with weight in proportion to height.
  
  

  Height....................Weight for Women.............Weight for Men

  5'2" / 1.55m .............93-101 lbs / 42-46 kg

  5'3" / 1.58 ................95-103 / 43-47

  5'4" / 1.60 ................99-105 / 45-48

  5'5" / 1.63 ................100-108 / 46-49

  5'6" / 1.65 ................104-112 / 47-50

  5'7" / 1.67 ................110-117 / 51-53

  5'8" / 1.70 ................114-119 / 52-54

  5'9" / 1.72 ................117-125 / 53-56

  5'10" / 1.75 ..............120-128 / 54-58 ..............154-160 lbs / 69-72 kg

  5'11" / 1.78 ..............125-133 / 56-60 .................158-164 / 72-74

  6'0" / 1.80 ............... 128-135 / 58-61 ..................162-160 / 73-76

  6'1" / 1.82 ................131-137 / 59-62 ..................163-173 / 74-78

  6'2" / 1.85 ................135-142 / 61-64 ..................172-182 / 77-82