There are few different types
of modeling:
1. Fashion
2. Commercial
3. Specialty
Fashion
Fashion modeling is the use of a model to sell
clothing. Fashion modeling includes runway, clothing campaigns (which
you see in magazines and billboards), catalogue, and showroom presentations.
Fashion agencies have very strict requirements. Female models have to
be between the ages of 14-21 and to be 5'9" and above. Male models have
to 18 years or older, 5'11" to 6'2" tall and a suit size of 40R to 42R.
It is very strict because, industry standard for clothing samples will
usually only fit these sizes. Occasionally, an agency might accept models
who fall short (no pun intended) of these requirements because they
have unusually beautiful faces and/or bodies. The further you are from
these requirements makes the more difficult it is for your agency to
acquire work for you.
Commercial
Commercial modeling is the use of a model to sell
products for household or industrial use. These include cars, hair products,
alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, household appliances, industrial
appliances, machinery etc. Commercial agencies have no physical restrictions.
Commercial modeling includes TV, print, promotions (e.g. the Budweiser
girls) and more. Commercial agencies represent models of all ages, sizes
and ethnic backgrounds. Specialty Specialty agencies usually represent
talent with special bodies or body parts and faces. Specialty agencies
represent full figured models, pettiest, bodybuilders, athletic builds,
or body part modeling.
Finding an Agency
Now that you are aware of the different types of
modeling, you can now figure out where you belong. To be on the safe
side, call the agencies before you pay them a visit
to find out whether they have open calls. If they do not, then send
them a SASE with 3 of your best pictures. Give about 4-6 weeks for a
response. If an agency is interested in you, they will call you and
set up an appointment. Agencies might get turned off if you hound them
with phone calls or go knocking on their doors
