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Modelling Criterion - What does it take to be a model
HEIGHT
Women:
minimum 5'6"
Men: minimum 5'11"
AGE
Though
age doesn't matter much, I would like to day that few Indian women have started
as late as at the age of 26 such as Michelle Tung. But ideally : A young woman
starting out must be from 15 to 22 years old. A man must be 18 to 25.
WEIGHT
There
is no perfect weight! But a model must be slim and well proportioned. Depending
on the trend or the market, a magazine may opt for a slender silhouette or a more
curvaceous look. Regardless, proportion is all-important. A slim-waisted woman
with long legs will always be more photogenic than one who is the same height
but has a longer torso and heavy legs. As for male models, they have to be athletic
and muscular, but shouldn't look like body builders. Again, proportion is the
key factor.
GENERAL CRITERIA
It is impossible to specify individual facial features,
since a model's character, beauty and above all photogenic qualities are the sum
of them all. Healthy skin, well-cared-for teeth and natural, well-cut hair are
generally sought after.
PHOTOGENIC QUALITIES
This is the most demanding criterion. Many pretty girls
do not meet this ultimate requirement - a photogenic face. And yet certain girls
whose looks are ever so slightly ordinary or even somewhat unusual can be highly
photogenic. This criterion is the most subjective and the hardest to evaluate.
Only a modelling professional can give you an accurate appraisal of your photogenic
potential. Only 5% of the people who meet the first four criteria will also pass
this final test! But physical appearance isn't everything. You also need a certain
temperament to be a model. You should be aware that it's an exciting but highly
demanding line of work. Yes, there are more criteria you'll have to meet. But
I'll let you be the judge of them.
YOU
MUST HAVE POISE
A model meets many people
in many situations - auditions, photo shoots, fashion shows, go-sees - and in
different countries. It's important to be at ease, to be able to communicate easily
and to radiate self-confidence. An outgoing person with an appealing smile will
always receive more work than someone who is shy and withdrawn.
YOU MUST BE ABLE TO TRAVEL ALONE
Everyone
loves the idea of travelling. But travelling on business is a far cry from going
on vacation. A model travels alone, without relatives or friends, for one to three
months at a time to distant states / countries with different cultures. This is
one of modelling's most difficult requirements. It takes a great deal of character
and independence. This type of work is not for everyone. Unfortunately, you cannot
work as a model without travelling. To be selected for assignments, you need a
varied portfolio of work done around the world. Successful models love their work
and become adept at living out of a suitcase. You must be comfortable being by
yourself for long periods of time.
IT
IS IMPORTANT TO BE SELF-RELIANT
Wherever
models are in the world, they must remember that they are working on the road
and that a client, a photographic team or a fashion show is waiting for them.
Models have to be organized to ensure they arrive punctually in places they may
barely know. It isn't hard to imagine the many reasons a model has to be self-reliant.
ORGANIZED
A
model must be organized in order to keep track of the different dates, times and
locations of appointments so that she can show up at appointments and go-sees
on time.
AMBITITON
A
model goes after her goals. You won't become a model by sitting at home and waiting
for agents to come to you! (Note: Never sign with the first agency you visit.
Always go to at least five before making a decision!)
A MODEL HAS TO BE VERY DISCIPLINED
Winter
or summer, during a downpour or a snowstorm - models can receive an important
job at any time. They have to be organized, available and presentable at all times.
That means getting lots of sleep, eating properly, and avoiding smoking and excessive
drinking. Models must also take care of their skin, hair and bodies with regular
visits to the esthetician, the hairdresser and the gym. Finally, they must keep
their portfolios and their finances up-to-date and maintain their contacts outside
the country. Only the best organized and most disciplined will set themselves
apart and perhaps even become top models.
INTELLIGENCE
To succeed, a model must be an intelligent business
person. She must know how to spend and invest money wisely. Also, she must know
how to conduct business with agents, photographers and clients. She must appear
professional and businesslike at castings and go-sees.
CONFIDENCE
Clients are looking for someone who is self-assured
and whom they think can sell their product. A model must be able to sell herself
before she can sell a product. It is also important to be able to handle the rejection
that every model must face. No model could meet the expectations of every possible
client. It is always best to go into a casting not caring whether or not you get
it. That way it's a pleasant suprise if you get the job but you aren't let down
if you don't get it.
STAMINA
A model is sometimes on her feet all day in the freezing
cold or the hot sun. She must be healthy and in shape to be able to work all day
and still look good. Eating healthy, going for walks/jogs and working out at a
gym three times a week is a must.
WILL
- POWER
Unfortunately, the modeling scene
does often involve partying. A model must have strength of character and will-power
in order to stay away from too much wine and partying. An agency will drop a model
very quickly if it becomes known that she takes drink or parties a lot. Once you
have read what it takes to be a model, and you think you fit the mold, then the
first step is to get a portfolio done.
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