How To Become America's Next Top Teen Supermodel In 6 Simple Steps
Do you love being in front of the video camera? Do you take hundreds of pictures of yourself or with their friends? Then you might want to check out the lucrative, exciting field of teen modeling. And it's a great way to jump start your college fund. Imagine having an exciting high-paying job as a professional model. Imagine walking down a runway at a designer fashion show, or having your photo taken for Sixteen or your favorite magazine. As a model you may have the opportunity to travel to beautiful locations, be pampered, attend events with celebrities, and earn thousands of dollars a day. Modeling can also lead to many other fabulous opportunities including acting. While a lucky few can become a super model like Tyra Banks, it is possible to become a model and have a successful modeling career even if you are not very tall, thin, or “exotic looking”.. In fact, many items sell better when they are promoted by models who look more like "real" people. Consumers want to see what clothes or beauty products look like on someone "just like them." As a result, there are modeling opportunities for people of all shapes and sizes. Which category of teen modeling do you fit into? •
High fashion modeling
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Glamour modeling
Petite modeling ( Are you 5 feet or less? Then this type of modeling is perfect for you!)
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Plus size teen modeling (Did you know that one of the fastest growing areas in modeling is teen plus size modeling? Finally, public attitudes are changing about beauty coming in all sizes - not just stick thin (and sickly looking if you ask me!) modeling. •
Plus, there is Plenty of Work: Surprisingly, many of the plus size modeling jobs are outside the United States with such clients as Elena Miro in Italy, Reitmans in Canada, and Neckerman & Otto in Germany. But U.S. Companies like Lands End, Eddie Bauer, Target, Nordstrom, and Federated Group are also hiring plus size models. Body part modeling (hand modeling, leg modeling, etc - this is a llittle known niche modeling area just ripe for the picking for teen models! •
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Character or "real people " modeling
In addition to fashion, models are also needed to advertise a wide variety of products and services - from cars to food. If you become a model your work may involve: • • • • • • • • •
Runway modeling Catalog modeling Showroom modeling Fit modeling Promotional (trade show) modeling Television Videos Editorial (magazine and newspaper) modeling Print advertisements
So now that you know what types of modeling opportunities there are for teen modeling... Here Are 6 Steps to Teen Modeling Success: Step 1) Evaluate Your Personality All teens are beautiful in their own way. But surprisingly, when it comes to teen modeling, looks are secondary to personality. Are you outgoing, independent, and willing to listen and take direction? Make sure you decide which type of modeling is right for you based on your interests and unique personality. Launching your successful modeling career is going to take commitment. So make sure your parents' and school/teachers are supportive and flexible. Step 2) Take Exceptional Amateur Photos Do you need a professional portfolio to break into modeling? Most modeling agents agree that you do not need to spend thousands of dollars on professional pictures. Especially for younger teens because your looks change so quickly. A good picture, such as what you would have done for a senior portrait, works just fine. Picture Perfect Tips: 1. Make sure you are the only one in the picture (do not include pictures with friends) 2. Your hair should be out of your eyes and face 3. Go for shots that show off your hair and eyes 4. Keep the background simple to not draw attention away from you 5. Dress appropriately and tastefully 6. Smile!
. You’ll need those exceptional photos to get a modeling agent to take notice.
Step 3) Seek Legitimate Agency Representation The hardest part about breaking into modeling is finding an agent to represent you. Look in your local phone directory or Google modeling agency contacts to seek representation by one of the nation’s top agencies. They usually accept submissions of your photos by mail, e-mail or online The best way to find an agent is to either call the agency direct or... Follow these 4 simple steps: 1) Make any size copy of a recent photo of your child. On the back of the picture, write your child's name, birth date, height, weight, hair and eye color, and contact number. 2) Include a short note about your child and what he/she is interested in pursuing (commercials, modeling, acting, etc) 3) Mail out to prospective, licensed agents agents in your area Here
You can find an updated list of
4) Follow up with a phone call a week later 5) Be patient! Agents get hundreds of photos from potential models every day. So be patient and persistent in finding the right agent. Don't be afraid to ask questions. And most important, be true to yourself and don't change for others. God made you perfect just the way you are! Before you know it, you'll have more work and money than you ever dreamed possible! WARNING: You should Never have to pay any money in advance to a licensed modeling agent - EVER. If you do, then you're being ripped off. Step 4) Partner with your agent Once you have an agent, you’ll need to take an active role in promoting yourself by providing great snapshots, creating a composite card, attending go-sees & fitting sessions Remember that Politeness Counts! It's important to not only be professional when you're modeling, but also to be polite. Try to learn the names of the crew members you work with, ask the make-up artist what he did last weekend with his family, give compliments, and send a thank you note after photo shoots. Looking beautiful is only a small part of being a model. If you're polite and easy to work with, clients will keep coming back for more. And that means you'll earn more money!
Step 5) Be Prepared For Shoot Day Modeling is hard work! Make sure you are rested and up for the challenge. A piece of fruit and a brisk walk will keep you fresh and energized. Most models recommend a daily moisturizer and a once a month ex foliate to keep their skin healthy and glowing. Arrive 15 minutes early with requested wardrobe & accessories. Be positive, professional, helpful and cooperative with the photo crew. Then relax and have fun! Step 6) Build a Winning Portfolio Find out where the ad shot will appear, and hunt down a copy. A good portfolio combines tear sheets like these, along with professional photos to promote yourself for future modeling jobs. MORE ADVICE... Audition to be a teen model Online: Last year, Youtube launched www.YouTube.com/Gig - where you can audition from your home! Simply read your own script into your webcam, upload it to YouTube's Gig Channel, star in a commercial and be seen by thousands of people, casting directors and potential clients. Subscribe for free to YouTube.com/Gig right now HOT TIP: If you are 13 to 19 years old, are 5'8” to 6' tall, wear size 12 or above, then apply to be on Tyra Bank's Teen Plus Size Model Search! You Can become a teen model and break into professional modeling. Best of luck to you in landing\ your first paid teen modeling job!