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Modeling Tips for Aspiring Models

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MODEL HEADSHOTS AND MODELING TIPS

Modeling Tips by Dustin Meyer Photography

In our previous post about building your professional modeling portfolio, we offered some advice for new models getting their career started. So we thought we would also add a few modeling tips. After learning how to build your modeling portfolio, we're going to talk about some ways to get started in the modeling industry.

The goal is for potential models to understand what it takes to break into the modeling industry, as well as go over some of the wrong ideas people have about becoming a professional model.

With some of these tips in mind, you'll go much further in your modeling career.

Having a professional model headshot is only the first step.Yes, it's important to put your best face forward. But having a great headshot isn't going to automatically get you work.

People sometimes think that it's their looks that get them a gig. Or that they'll suddenly get discovered without realizing there's a lot more to it.

The modeling industry is very competitive, but that doesn't mean it's impossible.

A brunette female model in a professional photography studio wearing a yellow dress in front of a white backdrop indoors
male fitness model in black and white at a crossfit workout

STAY HEALTHY

Staying healthy isn't just about looks. Yes, your outer appearance will help get you the overall physique you need for photos. But the long hours of working on a photo shoot can be a real test of your mindset and endurance. Here's a few modeling tips for building the right body.

  • Eat the right foods: Fruits, vegetables, low carbs, and lean meats are essential to your diet. This keeps your body in shape and makes it easier to see results when exercising. Eating gluten-free foods can also help avoid water retention, lactic acid, and overall puffiness and sluggishness.
  • Drink as little alcohol as possible: This may be a hard one, but alcohol works against your body in several ways. Your liver has one main job, removing sugar and fat from your body. If it's preoccupied with trying to flush alcohol from your system, it can't work properly. Most of the sugar and carbs just get stored in the body, making it harder to tone your muscles, lose weight, and burn calories. Alcohol also causes water retention as well as slowing down your metabolism. There's nothing worse than working hard in the gym and getting less results.

WORK WITH YOUR LOOKS, NOT AGAINST THEM

The media industry is oversaturated with super skinny, gorgeous, and ripped people. What a lot of people don't realize is this is only a small part of the modeling world. There's plenty of work out there for all different kinds of body types, hair, skin, height, and figures. If you try to fit yourself into a role that doesn't match your appearance, you have a higher likelihood of being rejected. Here are a few examples of different jobs for different people.

  • Print Models: For editorial work, most print jobs are looking for females at least 5'8" or taller. A gorgeous face is usually needed, but more importantly having a great personality is what really shows in the photos.
  • Plus-Size Modeling: There are plenty of opportunities for men and women who have a fuller frame. Remember, not every modeling project is looking for the super skinny look.
  • Foot, Hand and Hair Models: Sometimes, agencies aren't looking for a pretty face. Product advertising typically wants more focus on what their products can do for customers. This means anything from watches, shampoo, shoes, and more.
male model in a suit and bowtie
a model headshot of a female with blonde hair and a denim romper taken outdoors

SKIN AND HAIR CARE IS A MUST

People can get so focused on their bodies that they can forget to maintain their hair and face. Having healthy skin can help reduce clogged pores and skin reactions that can occur from professional makeup, sweat, and stress. Keeping blemishes and redness to a minimum is very important for eye-catching looks and makes retouching easier for photo editors. Here's a few modeling tips to get the glowing skin you want.

  • Use shampoo and conditioner daily: Avoid hair products with harmful chemicals to prevent stringy hair and split ends. Shiny healthy hair brings out the natural "glow" that agencies look for, and can minimize oily skin from your scalp which can affect your face.
  • Wash your face daily and nightly: Clogged pores and oily skin can cause skin irritation, making it harder to have clear skin. Try exfoliating once or twice a week to rid yourself of dead skin that can cling to the surface. The skin on your face is more sensitive, so stay away from harsh cleansers that cause irritation. Make sure to wash any makeup off your face every night before going to bed. Once your skin clears up, it's much easier to keep it that way by taking care of it on a regular basis.

EDUCATE YOURSELF ABOUT MODELING

Looking at pictures of pretty people in magazines and blogs isn't enough. Good looks will only get you so far. Research agencies in your area and beyond by looking at pictures of models they represent. You'll find a wide variety of people getting work through different modeling agents.

  • Body language and posture are important: Read different posing guides to see how important it is to stand, sit, and compose yourself to show off the different outfits, products, and editorial results companies want.
  • Network with people in the industry: Meeting people with experience can give you loads of information on what to expect when it comes to being a model. Plenty of people can provide all sorts of advice from their personal experiences, helping you to avoid mistakes and take advantage of what they've learned. Plus, they might even be willing to help you find work.
a female model with black hair outdoors wearing a yellow shirt and jeans
a black male model wearing jeans and a suit jacket outdoors

PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD

Being friendly and outgoing is important for any kind of modeling job. People want to work with someone they know they can get along with and get great results. You're representing yourself and agencies want to know they can rely on you to get the job done right.

  • Avoid being shy: No one is going to come to you and give you work. You've got to put yourself out there. That way, agents and professionals know you're available for work. Teamwork and cooperation is also important when working on a photo shoot.
  • Don't get discouraged: Just because you get turned away doesn't mean you're not cut out for modeling. It only means you aren't a good fit for a specific project. Keep your chin up and keep looking. The more you try, the better odds you have of getting work.

If you're reading this article, you're already educating yourself about the world of professional modeling. Follow these modeling tips to get your career started. So keep moving forward, work hard, and enjoy every moment! Good luck!