Today, the face of fashion modeling is
different than say 5 - 10 years ago. Given the fact that there are
so many definitions of beauty...it can truly be said that beauty is in
the eye of the beholder. Traditionally, models were the ones who
possessed a thin frame, chiseled cheek bones and eyes like a calm lake.
Through the years as fashion was redefined, so did the style, look and
shape of those who wore the clothing. The rise of the hip-hop
culture as a dominate force in marketing has spawned some very different
models with a look and style reflective of the culture. More than
ever you have women who would have never been considered as model
material posing and making substantial gains in the fashion community.
Urban Fashion as well as high fashion and runway. Need I mention
the Naomi Campbell's & Tyra Banks of the world. What about the
models that have experienced fame and fortune through music video and
other urban media ...Melissa Ford, Gloria Velez and the infamous Buffy
the Body.
With all of
the new types of modeling available to wanna-bees and Top
Model hopefuls...the question arises as to what it really
takes to become a successful model.
The comments
you are about to read where taken from our posts in an
online forum made up of photographers and models. Take
it all with a grain of salt and apply common sense when
necessary:
I think its all about the
models attitude towards modeling. They have to love what
they do to get great shots. I don't really think that
its a matter of beauty (ie, size shape, ect) If the
model has the confidence to model then she should model.
Granted some (like me) may never become supermodels, but
hey! Lets have fun right? Besides, if they are lucky
enough they can get some pretty nice paid gigs. But it
take work, discipline, the right attitude, dependability
and the drive to do well. You can't get anywhere in this
world without hard work right? Modeling is the same.
Aila Rose
I think it takes confidence, good attitude, and
personality. The biggest thing is Show up!!! Or if
your gonna be late call and let the photographer know.
Communication is huge I think, and having the ambition
to want to succeed even though you might not become a
supermodel.
DarkdesireA
sense of humor ... an understanding of irony ... the
ability to work with as well as for a photographer,
painter or sculptor ... and the ability to take informed
criticism
akemi
Drive
Determination
A thorough ability to negotiate and communicate
Professionalism including: Being on time .
Checking to be sure of correct dates & being prepared
Having all the information necessary (phone numbers,
etc)
Knowing what your goals are within the modeling
community
Being honest with yourself and others about who and what
you are... Having enough business savvy to be able to
freelance and be successful
NC17
I assume you're talking about being a full time model
able to live off the proceeds.
In the case of mainstream modeling, I would say height
(at least 5'7" for commercial and taller for fashion),
slender figure, uniquely attractive face, good luck, and
perhaps most important, location.
In the case of internet modeling you'll need a pretty
face, slender figure, boobs, and a willingness to get
naked. If you're not in a big city, you'll
probably have to be willing to do some driving to get to
a shoot.
Please note, I'm speaking in general terms. Also,
I didn't mention attitude or experience because I didn't
go that far down the list..
Dave K
In my humble opinion, the most important thing a model
has to have is a captivating expression. She has to
evoke something that is appealing. A real smile can go a
mile. I will take an expressive face over just a body
anytime. I think a model should make you feel a variety
of emotional responses. I have found that the
experienced and professional models don't need much
direction. You can just click away. They know what
they're doing and what it is they're trying to convey
with their eyes and body language. You can see in
someone's eyes whether their mood or expression is fake
or not. If they have an endearing personality that makes
you want to know them, it will come through in the
picture. Class Act Photography
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