Trudi gives a great overview of the industry and some things new models should keep in mind. Her advice is valid whether you’re going through an agency or are independent.
Get ready to work hard, regardless of which path you take. Modeling is a demanding career that can require long days, especially if you’re shooting for a product that needs to be photographed well into the night.
1. Build a Portfolio
In order to start booking acting jobs or modeling assignments, you need a portfolio (also known as a “book”). Modeling portfolios are often one of the first things agents and casting directors look at when reviewing models who come in for an audition. For this reason, it’s important for models to spend the time and effort to create an impressive portfolio book.
Your modeling portfolio should contain a variety of different photos, each showing a different aspect of your personality and talents. For example, a good mix would include close-up headshots, 3/4 shots, and full-length body shots. Also, consider including black-and-white images, which are very popular in fashion modeling. Lastly, it’s also a good idea to add some creative shots like jumping, running, or dancing poses that showcase your athleticism and creativity.
When creating your portfolio, be sure to work with a skilled photographer who can capture your best features and angles. Using a talented photographer can help you to build a more compelling modeling portfolio book that will impress agents and casting directors.
It’s also a good idea to use multiple photographers when shooting your portfolio so that you can have a wide selection of photos to choose from. Be sure to carefully review each photo before deciding which ones to keep in your portfolio. A good rule of thumb is to keep your portfolio at a maximum of 20 photos. Any more than this can be overwhelming and will not allow your talent and potential to shine through.
Once you have finished your modeling portfolio, it’s a good idea to make it available online. This will allow agents and casting directors to view your modeling portfolio book at their leisure. It’s also a great way to promote your book and draw in new clients and opportunities.
In addition to your online modeling portfolio, you should also create a physical copy of your modeling book that you can bring with you to auditions and meetings with agencies and clients. Be sure to update your modeling portfolio as you gain experience and book modeling jobs. This will ensure that your book is always current and fresh.
2. Network
The entertainment industry looks like a dizzying whirl of glamor and sophistication, but it’s a competitive world that does not favor those who aren’t suited to hard work or rejection. Breaking into the industry is no small feat, but it’s possible with the right guidance. Here are a few tips to help you get started.
The key to successfully breaking into a new industry is networking and being proactive. Attending courses, conferences, social events, and other industry-related activities are all great ways to build relationships with people in the field. Moreover, seeking out volunteer positions or internships is an excellent way to gain hands-on experience while getting an insider’s perspective on the industry.
For example, if you’re looking to enter the tech industry, you can learn more about the company and the position you’re interested in by researching the LinkedIn profiles of current and former employees. By reading their bios, you can also find out what skills and strengths they bring to the table, which may be applicable to your own career path.
Similarly, it’s important to have a clear goal in mind when you’re trying to break into a new industry. This can help you set realistic expectations for yourself and plan out the steps you need to take to achieve your goals. In addition, you should be prepared for the ups and downs of changing careers. Some days might feel like two steps forward and three steps back, but it’s important to stay persistent and remain positive.
Breaking into the modeling industry is no longer as difficult as it used to be, even for those who don’t fit the classic model physique. Today, there are many different types of modeling, including commercial and plus-size modelling, which cater to a diverse range of body types. This includes women, men, and children of all ages. In addition, many top agencies are taking a more holistic approach to managing their models’ careers. For example, IMG Models has a strong focus on talent development and works to promote inclusivity in the industry by representing models of all ethnicities and body shapes.
3. Get Representation
If you’re serious about making a career in modeling, it is important to get representation. There are a number of agencies that specialize in representing models and can help you secure jobs. Do your research before selecting an agency and be wary of any that charge a significant upfront fee or guarantee work for their clients. In general, agencies make money by taking a commission from the jobs they book for their models.
Another way to get representation is by attending model castings and auditions. You can find these through online casting platforms or by contacting local modeling agencies directly. By getting in front of as many people as possible and building relationships, you can increase your chances of booking a job with an established agency.
Once you have an agent, it is important to continue networking and pursuing opportunities to build your portfolio. This can be done through social media, reaching out to individuals on professional networks like LinkedIn, or by participating in industry events and workshops. Creating relationships in the film industry is key, as many opportunities arise through recommendations from others.
It is also important to understand the demands of being a model. This includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle, preparing for shoots, and being available to travel on short notice. It’s also important to be able to handle rejection and the pressure of constantly being scrutinized by the industry. If you’re not comfortable with these demands, being a model may not be the right fit for you.
While breaking into the industry can be a difficult process, it’s possible to achieve your dream of strutting down the runway or gracing the covers of international fashion magazines. By preparing properly, practicing good etiquette, and continuing to improve your skillset, you can maximize your chances of success in the modeling world. In addition, remember to network effectively and diversify your modeling opportunities to ensure longevity in the industry. Good luck!
4. Get Experience
A new career can be a terrifying prospect. You don’t know what to expect, where you will fit in or if the job you want to take is even available. For those who are looking to break into a new industry without any years of experience in that field, the idea can seem impossible. The only options have typically been to either work a low-paying internship on top of your current full-time job (if you still have one) or to go back to school–often leaving you with massive amounts of debt.
However, there is a way to break into the film industry on a blank slate. If you have the right skill set and can find a way to stand out, you can build a strong portfolio and get the experience necessary to make a successful transition.
The key is knowing what skills are transferable from your existing work experience and being able to communicate them clearly during the interview process. It’s also important to have the right mindset and to keep up with industry trends. The modeling world is constantly evolving and you will need to be able to adapt quickly to changes in fashion, casting demands, and more.
It’s also crucial to understand what you are truly aiming for in the industry, whether that’s being the star of the show or working behind the scenes. If you are aiming for the latter, it can be helpful to work on other people’s productions in order to gain experience and meet crew members that you could potentially work with on your own films.
Ultimately, getting the right experience and the ability to stand out are crucial for breaking into any new industry. Whether it’s through on-campus jobs, clubs, internships or personal projects, there are many ways to gain experience in a field that you are passionate about and that will help you on the path to becoming an industry professional.
The film industry is a notoriously hard industry to break into, but it’s not impossible. It just takes a lot of hard work and the right mindset to be successful. With the tips and insights in this article, you can start your career off on the right foot and begin to grow your network and land the roles that you dream of.
