I'm going to just dive in and tackle this subject because I get so many questions about it. Ok, so you want to be a model, right? Well there are some things you need to know. Many of you don't know where to start and that's perfectly understandable. I had no clue when I first started either. Below are some points that I would like to elaborate on.
Attitude
The first step to becoming a model is your attitude. It's so much more than getting your makeup done and taking pictures. YOU HAVE TO WORK...on and off set. If this is something you truly believe you want to do then you must take on the "all-or-nothing" attitude. Everything you do should be towards furthering your modeling career: the way you walk, talk and conduct yourself (even online) affect all you do. The reality is (a) this is NOT a career that is typically long-lived so you have to make your mark FAST and HARD and (b) you are one of millions aspiring to be the same thing. Now I didn't say that to discourage you but once you realize what you're up against, you'll see there is no room for half-stepping or straddling the fence.
Another thing to keep in mind is that modeling is a rough business. You have to be able to take criticism and correction without getting upset, giving in to discouragement or feeling like you're being attacked. Learn to listen to WHAT people say and not HOW they say it. You don't have time to be sensitive and get your feelings hurt. Develop a "thick skin" and keep pushing. Do self-evaluations and be honest with yourself about where you stand as a model and how you can improve. NEVER assume that you have it all together because there is always room for improvement...always. I live by the saying, "I am my only competition". I believe that if I'm constantly improving myself I'm already steps ahead of some of the models around me. Why? Because most of them are focusing on what others are doing instead of improving themselves and solidifying their place in the industry as a unique individual. Yes, be very aware of what others are doing but at the end of the day ask yourself, "Am I a better model today than I was yesterday?"
It's ok to have a likable personality! Lol! The last thing you want to be is obnoxious, over-bearing and a flat out pain in the butt especially when you want to get hired for modeling jobs. Your reputation precedes you. What you will quickly find out is that in the modeling industry, word travels fast...good or bad. Photographers, makeup artists, fashion designers, etc talk about the models they've worked with, the ones they would like to work with and even the ones they would never work with. As a model, you are a walking business. Practice good "customer service" even when those around you don't. You never know who is watching you and who may be waiting for that perfect opportunity to work with you. Your personal life should not co-mingle with your business. No one needs to know about what you and your boyfriend are going through or that you're feeling lonely because you're single or how many people are "hating" on you. Reality is, nobody really cares about the drama in your personal life...it's just good entertainment if you decide to share it. I know that sounds harsh but it's the truth. You aren't getting hired to handle your "personal"; you get hired to handle your "business". If people see too much "personal" going on, it's a safe assumption that you are going out of "business". People who are about their "business" will not wantt to get involved with your "personal".
Physical Appearance
*Taking a deep breath* This next segment is for males and females but directed especially to the ladies. So let's assume you have the drive and tenacity to pursue modeling. The next question is: DO YOU LOOK LIKE A MODEL? I'm not asking if you're pretty or not because honestly, not all models are thought to be attractive by the general public. Some are hired because they have a distinctive look or attribute about them that a client believes could sell their product. What I'm asking is can you look at yourself naked in the mirror and honestly say you are in model shape? If not, YOU NEED TO EXERCISE! It's just that simple. Even professional plus size models are in shape! I know exercising is not easy. I have to do it also because I like to eat...a lot. Lol! However it is expected of me to keep my body in shape. So applies the same expectation to you if modeling is what you say you want to do. Like I stated earlier, there are millions of aspiring models around the globe and some already have awesome bodies. The least you can do is get yourself in shape to better your chances of success. Oh yeah...your hair, skin and nails should also be healthy and well-groomed. Gotta have the total package!
Anyway, that's enough for now. LOL! Don't want to start preaching to you guys but I sincerely hope this helps someone. If it did, I would love to hear your feedback (bbreezy@bbreezy.com). Until next time, much love and success. ;-)
B.