Every day new models emerge onto the scene. You have to show the industry what you're capable of doing by showing them that you're different to the rest. What you are about to read will guide you to becoming a model.

THE BASICS

First things first, educate yourself. You need to know what the industry is looking for.

Read fashion magazines and follow top models on instagram who work in your industry of interest to get an idea of what the latest trends are, such as makeup, fashion, hair, etc. Look at how the models pose with their body and facial expressions. Practice in front of a mirror or with a camera so you can analyse your best angles and signature look.

Being in the modelling industry isn’t just about looking good. You have to be able to adjust and adapt to the main description of the job. Know what type of modelling you want to do and what your limits are.

A portfolio is a modelling CV. This can be either digital or print. It is the most important tool for getting successful work. It shows the directors what you are capable of doing and your experience. It makes an impression of the type of model you are. It is very important to have an Instagram account with your modelling images showcasing what you are capable of. This will be key for networking and collaborating with other creatives. At times you may also get approached for work this way.

This is the first thing the directors see before they invite you down for a casting. Without a decent portfolio, it is less likely that you will get many castings so it is important to try and get as much experience as possible. You need to build up an impressive portfolio with quality images. Networking and collaborating with Makeup artists, stylists and photographers who are also building their portfolios will help you get started.

Your portfolio should be able to demonstrate your ability to portray a range of personalities and characters. There should be a range of images from headshots to full-length body shots, some with makeup and some with little to no makeup. Your clothing in the images should show a variety of looks from minimal clothing to fully clothed. This will allow them to see your figure clearer and have a vision of how you will look.

Create a Z-Card that you're willing to exchange whilst networking. Z-Cards are model’s version of a business card.

Your Z-Card should include around 4 different images that show a variety of your looks. This could be a headshot, full-length shot, mid-shot and a creative look. Your statistics should be added to the card i.e. your age, height, size, as well as your contact details or your agencies contact details if you have one.

Your Z-Card is a great way to have others remember whom you are for when they are looking for a model. It is also a good way to give someone an insight to what you are able to do without having to carry your portfolio everywhere with you.

PROMOTE PROMOTE PROMOTE!

It is really important that you market yourself in order for your career to grow and for you to succeed. You should think of yourself as a brand. When you hear the names Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss and Tyra Banks, straight away you know who they are. Their names are worth thousands. You too want to have a valuable name.

The power of social media can boost career growth. If for any reason you're not on social media, JUMP ON IT NOW!. It’s free to sign up and you'll have access to millions within the modelling industry. The 4 powerful social media platforms to join are:

• TikTok

• Twitter

• Instagram

• Tumblr

If you don't have the time to manage a social media account or you lack interest, then Instagram would be the most suitable social media platform for you to join. It is a visual platform that attracts those interested in visuals. It is important that you make your personal profiles private, this is to ensure that only your family and friends can enjoy what you do in your personal life. You want to invite people to look at your modelling images so create a public profile for all to see.

You should considering making posts at least twice a week - once or twice in a day is fine but be consistent. It would be a good idea to follow your favourite models for inspiration. Take note of the frequency and content of their posts, as well as the message they're portraying. Also think about following:

• Designers

• Casting directors

• Magazine editors

• Stylists

• Makeup artists

• Photographers

They'll be able to give you an idea of what you want your next booking to be like. You should like and comment positively on their work, this will make it easier for you to network with them.

WHAT YOU CAN'T POST on your model profiles:

• Nudes – Your account will be suspended

• Talk about negative body image and quotes

• Swear

• Controversy – Drugs, religion, politics, etc

• Negativity towards designers, photographers, models, etc. Its really tacky and unprofessional

WHAT YOU CAN POST on you model profiles:

• Travel tickets (airplane, train, coach, etc) when travelling to castings, photoshoots etc

• Street Style

• Makeup chair selfies

• Workouts

• Magazine tears – Create moodboards

• Runway shots

• Red carpet shots

• Inspirational quotes

• Location shots especially if you are abroad

• Famous Friends

• Model friends

When taking behind-the-scene shots make sure you get permission first. Some designers want their work to be exclusive. If they give you the go ahead, don’t forget to credit everyone involved, such as:

• Ms Curvaceous UK

• Photographer

• Stylist

• Makeup Artist

• Designer

To promote yourself effectively it is very important that you are self confident. It is also important to network with the right people!

CASTING CALL!

In order for you to become a model, it is important that you know what to expect and how to prepare for a casting call. Casting calls are the only time you get to impress a casting agent for a job. Industry experts pick the best models to hire from a group of excited models. You are expected to look your best and stand out from the crowd.

Attend the audition looking your best yet professional. It is a good idea to dress as simple as possible, so you can be envisioned in a variety of looks when styled to your best. Below are a few outfit ideas you should consider wearing to a casting.

• Black leggings

• Skinny jeans – Plain black or dark blue

• Fitted vest top or t-shirt

• Black stiletto heels

Avoid wearing items with print, glitter, sequins, etc. It is best to be as neutral as possible. All the attention should be on you and not your clothing. Tie your hair in an up do so your face can be seen in images. Take measurements of your bust, waist, hips and height.

It is important to be truthful about your measurements. It is not a good idea to lie about your size just so you can be booked as this could cause problems on the day and your photos will not be the most flattering. This can look very unprofessional and possibly affect future bookings.

Keep your makeup to a minimum or go barefaced by just using lightweight foundation, concealer and a bit of mascara. Those who are casting want to be able to see your natural beauty. This is the only way for the agents to be able to compare you against the other models and know whether you are best fit for the job.

Pamper yourself before the casting and get yourself a manicure (nude/clear polish, buff, trim and file), wash and condition your hair and groom your eyebrows. 

Most important of all, let your confidence be seen. Practice your walk at home and strike a few poses in the mirror; do whatever you can to make you feel confident about your audition. The more confident you are, the better impression you give to others.

Walk in the room with a huge smile and lots of enthusiasm no matter how you are feeling that day. Shake hands with the casting team and give eye contact. When sitting and standing, keep your back straight and shoulders back. It gives the appearance of you looking taller.

Be prepared! Always have everything ready the day before to avoid last minute disappointment. Plan your journey to the venue so you are not late. Make it a habit of always being early. Show up to the venue 15 minutes before the appointed time. It states that you are professional and shows a sign of respect.

Make sure you have all the necessary information you need from the location of the casting to the contact details of the casting team. Research on the company you are casting for. This way you will know how to perform in the casting and it gives you a better understanding of the company and product you are representing. Ensure that your portfolio is ready and up to date to show. You can have either an electronic or paper-based version.

Network! Get to know the other models, its good to know about their own modelling experience. It’s even better getting to know the casting staff. Even if you are not right for the job, they may like you enough for another job they have on offer.

Building professional relationships can help you in the long run. Don’t be afraid to ask questions as it shows your enthusiasm. Be polite and thank the casting team for the opportunity. Hand them your z-card so that they remember you.

Don’t be in a rush to leave the venue as it shows impatience but don’t hang around for too long either as they have others to interview. A casting call is a job interview, so do not bring anyone with you to the audition unless you are a minor, a parent or guardian can be present. Do not forget to turn off your phone or put it on silent so you do not disturb others or get distracted yourself.

So there you have it! Everything you need to know for castings!

We understand that sometimes a lack of confidence can be a huge factor getting in your way.

BOUNCE BACK FROM REJECTION

Working within the modelling industry exposes you to a world of negativity and rejection. Employers will judge every pose, facial expression, appearance and performance. Criticism will also come from the public and media who will feel the need to judge you in every way possible. Even the most successful models still face criticism and rejection. You must be thick-skinned to be able to survive such a cut-throat industry. There will be days where you'll feel low but you must learn not to let hurtful comments get to you.

Learn to turn the criticism into positive statements. Always aim to prove people wrong by succeeding. The comments made may be able to help you improve where you're going wrong. For instance, if you're constantly being criticised about your facial expressions in photos, then practice in front of a mirror or get advice/feedback from the one criticising on what you can improve on.

There are many highly respected professionals who make bad decisions. There are many highly respected professionals who also have opposing opinions from each other.

Don’t let any persons decision or opinion define your future. You may just not fit what that person is looking for at that particular time. On another occasion you may be exactly what they are looking for.

Many of the worlds top supermodels have faced countless rejection. Collect the no’s on the way to your BIG YES!

Avoid the negativity you get in the media. When you react negatively, you'll just look as bad as them. Rise above the negativity and knock them with a smile.

Most of all LOVE YOURSELF! Sometimes you just have to look in the mirror and tell yourself that you're beautiful everyday. Love your imperfections.  If you can't build up your self-esteem and constantly have low confidence in the way you look, you'll never be able to past by the criticism and it will constantly eat away at you.

Dealing with rejection can be tough and being confident in yourself is very important.

YOUR MODEL BAG

The team you work with may not always have the right essentials that will truly make you look picture perfect. This means it is up to you to make sure you always carry the basic necessities. Put together a modelling bag that you can take with you to your bookings, castings, shoots or shows.

The items in this bag should be different to what you use on a daily basis and should be in relatively new condition. This bag should always be restocked with the basics so you're always prepared. Regardless of where you're going or what you're told to bring, always make sure you carry the following basic essentials.

Large spacious bag – Your bag needs to be large enough to carry all of your essentials without damaging them as well as look presentable. Opt for a duffel bag or pull along case.

Nude/Black/White undergarments – Make sure you carry with you seamless underwear so that it doesn't show through clothing. T-shirt bras should be either strapless or convertible. Thongs are the best option

Pantyliners/tampons – Accidents can happen

Black high heels (not wedges) – These must be a minimum of 4 inches. Please take at least 2 pairs so you have a variety of pairs to work with different outfits.

Black and nude tights or leggings and socks

Makeup kit – This should include foundation, concealer, press powder, makeup wipes, lip balm, mascara, eyeliner and eyedrops.

Portfolio/Headshots – Always carry your portfolio with you, regardless of it’s a casting or photo shoot. You never know who you could meet!

Hair products – Hairpins, hair bands, brush and comb

Compact mirror

Nail file and natural nail polish

Face wash and moisturiser

Diary and pen – Keep track of bookings and contact details

Bottled water and Snacks – Stay hydrated

Book/Magazine/Ipod – Something to keep you entertained as it will be a long day

Mouthwash/Mints – No gum! Keep mouth fresh.

Phone charger – Don't talk on your phone whilst on the job, but keep your phone charged in case of emergencies

Money – Enough for travel, food, and emergencies

Valid passport/visa – Always make sure that your passport is at least 3 months valid in case of long term jobs abroad

Map – Know the directions of where you are going. Use TFL to plan your travel in advance

Mini essential kit – Plasters, safety pins, straws, no-mark deodorant, sunscreen lotion, body cream, etc

Once your bag is ready and packed your ready to show off them beautiful curves! 

We know getting started as a model is the hardest part! 

Getting your model bag right is one thing...

Knowing how to do the job, pose correctly and catwalk like a pro is a completely different challenge. 

WHEN YOU GET THE JOB

In order to be a model, you have to look like a model. Your skin should be glowing so it is vital that you include fruits and vegetables as part of your diet and drink plenty of water. The last thing you want is to turn up at your booking with bad skin. If you haven’t got a routine, think about starting one.

This should include;

• Facial wash

• Toner

• Exfoliating

• Moisturising

It is important that you attend the job with a clean, bare face and freshly washed hair. Shave or wax at least 3 days before the shoot. This will allow time for any skin irritations to soothe and not show up in photos. Nails should be painted nude, clear or a French manicure unless told otherwise.

Hygiene is also a key factor, so look clean and smell fresh. People get very close and personal so you want to smell your best. Chewing gum isn't permitted, it is best if you have a mint or use mouthwash instead.

Be professional and polite, at all times and treat everyone with respect. You never know whom they may know or what type of recommendation they'll give you. Here are a few tips on how to be professional:

• Be on time! – The process of organising a photo shoot is very time consuming and also rather expensive, so every minute you're late, the more money it costs them. People talk so you don't want to give them something negative to talk about. If for any reason you're going to be late, please give at least an hour notice. If you're unable to attend, please give at least 72hrs notice.

• Build relationships – Whether it is with the hairstylist, photographer, makeup artist, etc, its beneficial to build relationships. By listening to instructions, being polite and helping the work of others look great, you'll have a good chance of working with team members again.

• Be organised – Don’t forget to bring your model’s bag (as discussed in the next section “What’s In Your Bag”) with all the correct essentials. Always think ahead when you have been booked. It is important that you remember to do the following:

• Wash your hair

• Shave

• Get your nails done.

Please consider carrying a diary along with you so you can schedule these beauty treatments, future bookings or preparations that need to be done beforehand like travel.

• Shoots can last for hours, so always have items to keep you busy and comfortable. You don’t want your negative emotions to show in the pictures so always try to be enthusiastic.

• Always thank the team! Take your Z-card and write a thank you message to those involved so that they remember you for future bookings.

You need to be unique and creative. Don’t be like anyone else but yourself. The artistic team want to see some creativity and a range of emotions. You need to be able to adapt to your surroundings and work with the resources available. Stand out from other models so that you can be noticed.

Take food and drink with you just in case the shoot is not catered. Just remember not to eat, drink or smoke whilst in the clothes you are modelling in otherwise you will be held responsible for any damages. Try and avoid sitting down too much in clothing that can easily crease such as satin or linen. This will take time to be ironed and will unpresentable in photos. 

It is important for your client to believe that you are the best person for the job. Therefore you must believe that too!