Modeling: A Beginners Guide for Men and Women

By Keith Bailey

This book is a must have Introduction to the Business of Modeling.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Jun 22, 2023
• ISBN: 9781312420786

Book preview

Modeling:

A Beginners Guide for Men and Women

by Keith Bailey

Introduction

A lot of what I have to tell you are things the Modeling Agencies and management companies of the world, would rather you didn't know, but I feel are essential for you, the aspiring model to understand.  This book is not meant to discourage anyone from entering the Modeling world, in fact I hope that it inspires you to pursue that dream.  I simply want to let you, the reader, know what to expect, when you enter this often confusing business.  There are many people in this profession out there ready to take advantage of you if you are not well informed.  I want you to have the best chance for success.

You might be wondering what a Photographer knows about Modeling. Photographers work with Modeling Agencies, Ad Agencies, Magazines, Runway Shows, Art Galleries and directly with Models themselves.  We are involved with every aspect of Modeling world, at every level.  We know the ins and outs of the modeling business better than anyone, because we, more than any other fashion industry professional, are the ones who work with models and their clients both.

After more than 30 years of listening to Models, Hair Stylists, Makeup Artists, Ad Agencies, Advertisers, Modeling Agents, Bookers, Designers, and Wardrobe Stylists; I have picked up a few insights on the business of Modeling.  I am now going to share those insights with you, and hope that at least some of what I have to share, will help you on your way in this most exciting career.

Keith Bailey

The Basics

Physical Requirements:

Women:

Are you between 5'8 - 5'11 in height?

Is your dress size between 2-6?

If not then you are not the standard size for a female model, and you will have to fit a very specific market niche in order to have any success in this business.

Women who fit a dress size of 8-12 can enter the market as a full figured or plus size model, but are not yet likely to command the same income as smaller models.

Age: 14-24 is the standard age for a female Model

Age: 25-40 is  now known as a Classic Model

Age: 41+ are Mature Models

Men:

Are you between 6'1- 6'4 in height?

Is your coat size 40R-44R?

Is your waist size 30-32?

If not then you are not a standard size for a male model, and you will have to fit a very specific market niche in order to have any success in this business.

Men who are 6'5"+  or 34-38 waist can enter the market as a Big and Tall model.

Age: 16-30 is the average age of a Male Model

Age: 31-50 is a Classic Model

Age: 51+ is a Mature Model

Both Male and Female models need to have fit, lean bodies, good skin, and good teeth.

Is it impossible to become a model if you don't meet these basic physical requirements? Of course not, there are always exceptions to rules, but realize that exceptions are rare, and the farther you fall from the requirements, the harder it will be for you to succeed in modeling.  The modeling world is a hard one to be a part of if you do meet the requirements, you will have to have a very thick skin and a lot of determination to succeed if you fall short of them.

Tools of the Trade

The Grooming Kit

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