I am sure you have all seen those adverts saying, “… become a Top Model, or a Super Model…”. Or “You can become a model in only 6 weeks…” etc.
I find it sad and pathetic that so many kids and parents fall for these kinds of solicitations. I can only imagine how much money is tossed out the window by so many of those hoping to become models via the Modeling Schools, offering fame and fortune in the fashion business.
So for those of you reading this and hoping to become models, let me edify you to the reality of the business.
There is no school out there that can make you that promise and keep it.
To become a model the reality is the following:
If you are over 5′-9″ or 1m 75 cm around 14-16 years of age or even younger.
Have a unique look that breaks with convention.
A classic conventional look that is really commercial.
Have been discovered by a credible model agency scout or recognized fashion photographer.
Have been to see the credible model agencies around like Elite, The Society, Ford, Next, IMG, Marilyn, One Model Management, Folio, Select, Premier, Modelwerk, Viva, etc. and they have accepted you to their roster.
A major fashion magazine fashion or beauty editor has discovered you and sent you to one of the above agencies or other credible agencies in the major modeling centers.
All modeling agencies worth their weight, will provide the models the necessary learning tools to survive in the business. They will warn them against certain career pitfalls, who and what to avoid, teach them how to walk for runway work, as well as some of the more important aspects of posing and attitudes needed to approach a photo and video shoot. Of course there are other types of modeling that I have not mentioned, like hand, leg, body, extra work, glamour, erotic, people, lifestyle, etc. modeling that falls under a very different category and doesn’t really require the above attributes.
Perhaps schools wishing to teach poise, posture, social graces, table manners, walking gracefully etc. should just advertise themselves as Charm Schools. At least then those wishing to learn the above would be well informed. If none of the above situations apply, I suggest that you save your money and invest in other aspects of your capabilities and pass GO and save your $200.00.
One day you might want to pass this on to those seeking your sage advice. Looking forward to your comments.