how do i start my modeling career IN los angeles?
First, there are different types of modeling careers. Is your goal to work in the fashion industry or are you looking to work in commercial print? Do you know the difference? Do you want to be a fitness, bikini and lingerie model? Different industries will require different types of models. In additional blogs I will elaborate on the specifics of each industry.
FASHION
If you are planning on working in the fashion industry (as a fashion model), whether you are a male or female, the first things you have to look at is do you have the basic assets/requirements to be taken seriously. To work as a fashion model, you first have to meet the basic criteria and requirement such as your height…
Female models typically must be 5’8” as a starter, (we will discuss exceptions later). If you are not 5’8” but close, they will still consider you based on your “looks”… If you correspond to what agents are currently seeking, they will consider you, but again your height will first and foremost be a serious consideration.
If you are a male seeking representation as a fashion model, typically 5’11” would be a minimum.
There are always exceptions, if you have a “look and physique” that is exceptional, some agencies will have an interest. If they feel there is a viable way to market you and feel you can work, they will represent you. At the end of the day, are you someone that can generate income for the agency? Will they be able to get you work on a consistent basis (whether on the runway or for print)? Do they have no one on their roster that look like you?
When it comes to “Print” in fashion, height may not be as “crucial”, again it depends on how the agent sees your potential… You may be exceptionally photogenic, you may have a natural ability and comfort being in front of the camera. Some people have great “looks” but cannot shake off their insecurities and somehow look stiff and uncomfortable in front of the camera, the outcome doesn’t lie… If you are not able to remain calm and confident in front of the camera, that will not work in your favor. When it comes to “runway” your height will definitely be important, how comfortable and relaxed you are on the runway, maybe you are a "“natural”, maybe you are not…
COMMERCIAL PRINT
If you are interested in working as a model in Los Angeles for example but you do not meet the specific requirements for the fashion industry, there are “Commercial Talent Agencies” in Los Angeles that represent “talent” for both TV Commercials and Commercial Print. In the Commercial Print division they will represent talent of all ages, heights, looks, etc… These types of models would not work in the fashion industry but could book commercial print jobs for example: banks, real estate, restaurants, spas, etc… Industries that do not relate to the fashion industry per say… The health and travel industries will book print models of all ages, and so on…
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
Once you have determined which industry you feel you would fit best as a modeling Los Angeles, your first move will be to do a photo shoot. It is very important for you to know specifically what type of modeling will fit you best, that way you can plan on doing images that will correspond specifically to the industry you are targeting.
If you are seeking representation with a fashion modeling agency, you will want to submit images of yourself that have a fashion feel to them. You have to be careful not to fall in this trap… Do not “over style” your wardrobe and also add accessories. Remember, the agents scouting for potential clients/models want to see you, keep it simple and tasteful. They will want to get a sense of your essence, for women it could be as simple as wearing jeans and a summer top that will show your face and figure, natural body language, not trying too hard to “pose”… Selecting the right photographer to work with is soooo important!!! Working with an experienced fashion photographer in Los Angeles will make all the difference…
If you are looking for commercial print representation, again keep the wardrobe simple, a strong, well styled professional headshot + lifestyle types of images will help getting agents’ attention. I have worked as a fashion model full time for more than 15 years in all the major cities, Paris, Milan, New York, Munich, Tokyo, etc… My experience in the fashion industry has definitely contributed to my knowledge in all aspects of fashion shoots and commercial print shoots, including styling and the right types of images to help you move forward and finding the right representation.
MORE BLOGS TO FOLLOW ON THIS SUBJECT