Modeling 101 - Answering Reader Questions

Anonymous Wrote: Hello! Do you think if you were 5'6 or 5'7 and 14 and you submit photos to a High Fashion agency and they like your look they would offer you a meeting despite your height?? ~ Thanks Hey there, Anonymous! The answer is yes and no. Let me explain. :-) Yes, because many fashion agencies do make special exceptions for the height requirement based on age. They recognize that a model who is 13 or 14 but already at a height of 5'6"or 5'7" usually means she is going to be taller as she gets older. That is good news for them. So oftentimes an agency will be interested in a young model who is at a certain height and will offer representation. No, because not all fashion agencies have this exception. There are some that want their models to be the minimum height of 5'8" regardless of age. The good news is you can find out which high fashion agencies have this allowance or not by checking out their official websites. Doing an onlin

Unknown Wrote: Hi Diana! Can you help me find a good model agency? I'm plus sized, so it's been hard to find a good one near me that accepts me. I live in Killeen, Texas. Thank you! Hi, Unknown! Below are agencies in Texas that either represent plus size models or that don't specify but do represent commercial/print models, which can include plus sizes depending on the agency's preference and interest in your potential as a model: Calllidus Agency http://callidusagency.com/ *Click on the "Submit" link to see how to submit yourself for the Fashion & Runway division. The Clutts Agency http://www.thecluttsagency.com/information.html# DMG Management http://www.dmgmanagement.com/new_site/contact.html The Campbell Agency http://thecampbellagency.com/opencalls The links go straight to the part of the site that tells you how to submit yourself so as long as you follow what each agency says for you to do, you should be golden. Best of luck!

Liz Wrote: Hi Dania! My name is Liz I am an aspiring model with no experience. I have always been told to go out for modeling (I'm 5'10" and measurements are 34/25/34) but I have always been slightly self-conscious and too afraid of being rejected by agencies. Now I am not self-conscious and I actually want to go for it, but I have one slight problem. I'm from NJ but I will be studying abroad in Hawaii starting in early January until mid May, I have been looking at a few agencies in New York but I am unsure as to if I should try to get signed to an agency here in NY or wait til I go to Hawaii. I have heard the term "Mother agency" but I do not know exactly what that is or how it would work. I could really use your advice, thank you. I tried to post this comment earlier but idk if it went through so I'm trying again, if it did go through then whoops, my bad. Hey, Liz! I screen my comments to weed out spammers so I do receive all comments posted

Anonymous Wrote: Hi Dania, I recently responded to a craigslist post about Modeling. They contacted me within a week and scheduled a photoshoot with me! I found out though, that the cost is 995$ and no contract was offered. It sounds scretchy! What are your opinions? Hi, Anonymous! This sounds like the definition of sketchy. I'd say politely decline the offer. Craigslist isn't known to be the most credible resource for finding modeling work, especially in the last few years (I used to use CL a lot for modeling jobs but not anymore). I would suggest turning to other alternatives, such as looking for Facebook modeling groups in your city and/or setting up a free profile on modeling networking sites like Model Mayhem where you can view people's profiles, portfolios and also use their Casting section to find and submit to opportunities. No resource is 100% foolproof or perfect but is by far better than relying on what Craigslist has to offer. Hope that helps!

Anonymous Wrote: Hi Dania, Someone told me I need a "model number". I've never heard of this before. Where would I get one, and what is it? Thank you!!! Hi, Anonymous! I've gotta admit: you've stumped me! I've never heard of a "model number" before but then again, I need more information about what you were told to have a better idea of what they may have meant. Were you at a casting call for a modeling job? Were you at an open call for a modeling agency? Who is the person that told you this? Was it someone from an agency or a friend/family member who randomly mentioned it to you? I'm super curious about this, haha, so I'm hoping you're able to reply back and give me more details so I can see if I have an answer for you or not!

Courtney Wrote: Hey! So I recently became interested in modeling and was wondering if you could give me advice on some things. I am a senior in college about to graduate and I have two tattoos. Do modeling agencies prefer models to not have tattoos? Both of mine are small and could be hidden if need be. Also, I was thinking about going in the direction of a promotional model like a Budweiser girl. I am 5'4 and a size 6 because I have natural curvy hips and a bubble butt. Do you think that is a good route to go? Hey there, Courtney! Tattoos have become more commonplace for models in the industry, although agencies prefer that models not have them. However, yours are small and easily hidden so I doubt an agency would have a problem with that. It is the large, excessive tattoos that most agencies tend to want to avoid. Promotional modeling is a fun field to get into and is open to all heights and sizes so I think it would be a great way to get your foot in the door as far a

Anonymous Wrote: Hi, I just recently signed with a Donna Baldwin Agency in Colorado and I was wondering where you'd place it in terms of "big" or not.  Thanks. I've been getting into your blog recently for help with my first few jobs and casting calls and it's been a great help:)  Hey, Anonymous! I'm happy to hear that my blog has been of use to you in your modeling career--I'm always thrilled to hear that and congrats as well on getting signed! I'm not as familiar with the Denver market in general for agencies but based on the agency's website and their listing in online searches, it does appear that this particular agency is definitely one of the better ones for that area. The quality of their talent is very impressive and I wouldn't be surprised if they had a strong clientele base for CO. Colorado by comparison to other "large markets" wouldn't be considered "big" as an agent in a place like Los Angeles,

Anonymous Wrote: Hello, I am interested in becoming a teen model, but I am 13 and only 5'6". I have no prior experience in modelling at all, do you think that will lower my chances of getting into an agency? Also, I am self conscious about my wide face and broad shoulders--I haven't seen any models with that body structure--do you think I still have a chance to become a model? Hi, Anonymous! Teen modeling doesn't have strict height requirements like fashion and runway does so that usually isn't a major factor for most agencies. Previous experience also isn't mandatory to be considered for agency representation. Teen and print models come in all shapes and sizes. Don't focus so much on whether or not your "look" would be good for modeling or not. Instead, focus on getting definite answers about your potential for modeling by researching the websites of local agencies in your city/state, finding out what the submission requirements are and

Jordan Wrote: Hi, Dania. First off, I just wanted to thank you for having such an informative and helpful blog. I have a meeting scheduled with IMG Models in New York soon. I was scouted via the # wlyg. I am 5'8", 15 yrs old, and my measurements are 32-22-33. I was wondering if you could give me any tips/suggestions on what to wear, how to present myself, and how to prepare for my upcoming meeting. Also, are there any exercises that are good for achieving an even more toned figure for my possible modeling career. I'm so nervous and although I have done quite a bit of research over the past two years, I still feel slightly unprepared.. (I'm also a little worried about my height...) Thank you so much for giving your time to help me out! Jordan Hi, Jordan! You're very welcome, I'm glad you've been able to benefit from my blog! Congrats on the upcoming interview with IMG, how exciting (and nerve-wracking, I know)! As far as tips, below is a

Anonymous Wrote: So I'm meeting with an agency tomorrow and I think they are a bit sketchy -they charge 'membership fees.'  Quote from their website - What do I get for my membership fee? Online Profile and Portfolio management. Submission of your profile to casting agents and producers Access to our workshops and development classes.  Should I run for the hills? Thanks! Hey, Anonymous! I say run for the hills simply because there are many agencies out there that DON'T charge for any kind of membership. Traditional/standard modeling and talent agencies don't have models as "members" of their agency--they're either signed or they're not. Some companies call themselves "agencies" but don't operate exactly like the traditional ones, which allows them to charge for things like the items you described. This sounds more like a casting agency than a model or talent agency but since I don't know the details or who th

James Thomas Wrote: hey im currently 6'2 24 years old. ive always wanted to model but never pushed at it. now i want to go for it but i dont know if my age will stop that. Hi James! As a man you have the odds working in your favor. Men in their 20s are always in demand and your height is perfect for both runway and commercial/print. Depending on your physical look, an agency could market you for both categories, which would be the ideal situation. Agencies aren't going to be as stringent with male models and age ranges like they are with women. Most of the fashion agency websites I've seen list their male age requirements as: "18 - 30" or "18+". That's clearly a good sign so jump on it and see what happens!

Unknown/Red Wrote: Have you heard of Free Prints? Would that be a good company to print photos?  Hey, Unknown/Red: I've heard of Free Prints although I've never used them before. I checked out their site and it appears that you can only print out the 4" x 6" size. If that's the case, it wouldn't be ideal to use as a printing service for modeling photos to put in a hard copy portfolio. The standard size for hard copy portfolios is 8" x 10". You'll want to play it on the safe side and choose a printing company that specializes in printing traditional photos. I highly recommend MPix ( http://www.mpix.com/ ). They are affordable, have a lot of custom options and their prints are great quality. Plus they ship the photos to you since they're an online service. There are other online photo printing companies you can check out as well (a basic online search will give you results to choose from). As long as they are actual phot

Tuscany F Wrote: Hi Dania, My name is Tuscany, Im a 21 yr old female model from South Africa. Ive been a model for 4months and the season has just begun here. My question is am I too old to get busy as a editiorial runway model? I don't have much experience, and i'm based with a smaller agency.. I am concerned I won't be booking as many jobs because of my age and being with a smaller agancy ( it's a great agency and they take care of me well). Everyone seems to love my 'look'.  Should i be concerned or am i just being a nerous nelly?  many thanks xx Hi there, Tuscany F! I vote for nervous nelly. :-) You have several factors working in your favor: you have an agent, you're happy with them/they take care of you, you've received positive feedback about your look and potential. Smaller agencies have their benefits and doesn't necessarily mean your career would be small as well. Oftentimes, they become the stepping stones to larger agenci

Anonymous Wrote: I am currently 12 and 5'3 do you think that I can make it when I am older? All my friends think that I should model and I really want to. Hi, Anonymous! You can model right now if you want to. :-) At your age and height, you can pursue kid/tween modeling. It would just be a matter of finding an agency local to you that represents kid models. So if you don't want to wait until you're older, and if your parents are okay with it, you can start looking online for the websites of modeling agencies in your city/state. The agency websites will clearly state what types of models they work with and should list instructions/guidelines about how to submit yourself. If you need help finding legitimate agencies in your area, you can comment here with the city/state you live in (not your mailing address) or you can send that info directly to my email: daniadenise@gmail.com.

Unknown Wrote: Hi, thank you so much for your advice. When you said if you have reddish stretch marks I was really nervous but when I read all of it I was relaxed. But if you have a scar on your lower back would you be able to enter the fashion business? Hey, Unknown! Glad my post about stretch marks helped you out! I don't know what your scar looks like so I can't say whether or not it would be an issue for you. That mainly depends on the following factors: - Size of the scar - Color of the scar (if it's faded and not really noticeable unless you were up close, that would be fine) - If the scar is flat on your skin or if it is raised - If it can be easily covered with body makeup Photoshop is great for airbrushing scars and other blemishes (and body makeup is often used as well) so I doubt your scar will be a problem but it shouldn't stop you from submitting to agencies. After all, the only way to know for sure if you'll have any issues is to ge

Casey Wrote: what if you have gauged ears that are 00g? Hey, Casey! Unfortunately, having gauged ears are going to be a hindrance if you want to pursue mainstream modeling categories like commercial/print, fashion, runway, etc. Agencies can't successfully market models with what they consider "body modifications." Even a 00g sized gauge is pretty obvious when you take them out and it would limit the types of modeling you could do in the mainstream, such as jewelry modeling and I doubt many retouchers would want to spend the extra time (and money) to fix their appearance after the fact. However, alternative modeling is one category that embraces body modifications of all kinds, including gauges so that might be something you want to consider if you do want to pursue modeling but don't want to have to choose.

Anonymous Wrote: Hi Dania, this blog is so helpful... I appreciate all the help you've given!. I was reading through reader question #845 and I actually recently submitted photos to both IPM Model management and MSA New York for the curve division. I received an email from IPM telling me to give them a call. I called and was told they love my look and was asked to send more photos which I did. I also got an email from MSA requesting more photos as well. How long should I wait before sending a follow up email or just assuming that it's a no for right now? I know its a waiting game and all about patience but I've wanted it for so long and just very anxious :). Thanks for the help!  Hi, Anonymous! Thank you for the kind words, I really appreciate it! Sadly, it is a waiting game and follow ups are typically discouraged. But in this case, since both agencies have already reached out to you with their initial interest, I say it is okay to send an email to inquire whethe

Anonymous Wrote: Hi Dania, I'm 27 years old 5'9" 123lbs. I've always been told that I should be a model. I still get asked if I'm a model and that I should consider doing it. I'm African-american and Korean mixed so I do have unique features. I am often mistaken for still being a teen (sometimes as young as 14) because I have doll-like features even though I'm in my late 20's. I never really saw myself as pretty or a model, I'm a bit of a tomboy and for a long time I'm just recently overcoming low confidence, but after being told for years how I need to get into modeling I started developing an interest in it. Do you think its worth pursuing at this age? In your post 'How Old Is Too Old To Model' you say that commercial/print is the best route but what if you're like me and you have more of a high fashion look and not the normal conventional beauty? Also where do I begin if I don't live near any of the big cities like NY or L

Unknown Wrote (in response to the blog post: http://amodelsdiary.blogspot.com/2008/02/modeling-and-gasp-that-time-of-month.html ): What about implied nudity on the runway?? Hey, Unknown! When it comes to implied nudity on the runway and the occurrence of PMS, I doubt there will be too much to worry about because 99% of the time, models are required to wear underwear so if your concern if about your period causing issues, it shouldn't be that major. I say 99% instead of 100% because there always seems to be that pesky 1% that are extreme exceptions to the rule so I prefer to "never say never", haha. In those instances, tampons will take care of any possible problems. However, it is a good idea to make the designer aware if you know that you will be on your period by the time the show comes around. I'm pretty sure they'll either change the outfit you have or will take whatever necessary precautions are needed to remedy the situation. A majority of fashi

Anonymous Wrote: Hi, Dania! Thanks for the wonderful blog :) I was wondering how aspiring models find out if they have the potential to make it in the industry, except for being told by friends and family (who aren't professionals). Other than having the correct height, weight, and bone structure, how do they know if they have the right facial "look"? I ask because I was discouraged when I appeared at an agency in Chicago (where I live) and didn't get any face time with an agent - a receptionist simply snapped a couple of photos and told me I'd get a callback if I fit their needs (I didn't). I called them the next day and asked for some feedback - they said they weren't willing to supply that. There's only two other well-known, legit agencies here that I know of and I'm nervous to go. So, here are my questions: How does one find out if they are fit for modeling, if not through an agent at an open call? Does getting turned down at one agency m

Angie Shipp Wrote: Hey! So I have always wanted to model! I would still like to if possible but now I do a lot of traveling with my Fiance for work, I am never constantly in one place for longer than 1 Month. Is this still possible for me to do? If so where do I start? I have some good pictures but they are not professionally done and I don't have a lot of money to put into building a portfolio. I am fairly new at this, I haven't put much thought into pursuing my interest into modeling until recently so I don't really know much. I can use all the information I can get! I am not really sure where to look for information. Hey, Angie! Given that you're moving around so much and only in one place for a month, I don't believe that an agency would be able to represent you properly. Not many are that flexible to take the time and effort to bring you onto the books if you're only going to leave a few weeks later. That being said, you'd still be able to mod

Blessing Wrote: Hey! Im Blessing and I've been wondering a few things. 1st what if I get a opportunity for thaw "big leagues " in places like New York, but I live 4 hours away from NY. How would that work? 2nd I hear that personality is something they look for in a model, how exactly do i show that?  3rd If I become a model for top agencies (such as Ford and etc.) would I stop school (Im 13) or would I go to school as normal? Hey, Blessing! A majority of NYC agencies will require you to live within a 2 hour's drive from their offices so they may be hesitant to sign you because you live farther away. In most cases, you'll have to relocate in order for them to represent you properly. Personality is a huge factor in addition to meeting physical requirements. You'd get a chance to showcase your personality to an agency during the open call and/or interview. You're in luck because I literally just published a post on my Modeling 101 - A Model's

Tara Wrote: Hi Dania! It's sort of unrelated to this article but I've been wanting to ask someone this for a while now: How do agencies work? Say I go and they are interested and I want to work with them, then comes time to sign a contract of some sort. I am a modest woman, I have been modeling for a few years now and haven't done any photoshoots involving any kind of nudity. I have noticed that many agency signed models do end up posing topless or completely nude for magazines and etc.  So I guess what I'm wondering is: Is the model's opinion on nudity considered or talked about when signing to an agency? Or is that something that is talked about when a particular gig opportunity comes up? Or is it talked about at all? Are models assumed to "know what they are getting into" and then forced to take whatever job their agency send them to? Or do they have to audition for most gigs still? Can you tell your agency "no" to a shoot if it is o

Katy Wrote: Hey Dania,  So I am 14 years old and 5'3". I've done extensive research on modeling in the past couple weeks, so I am well aware of the fact that I'm too short for runway modeling. I am, however, aware that I may be able to do commercial modeling, which would be a dream come true. I have been told I could be a model (but then again, so has everyone else, haha). An issue I might have is, my teeth, because of genetics, are fairly yellow and not as straight as I would love them to be..., is there anything I can do that would easily fix my teeth in a matter of a few weeks or months? Also, I live in the Denver, Colorado tri-state area and so far I have found a few agencies and places that are holding open audition type things and stuff, but I'm still unaware if I will have to pay an upfront fee just to book an appointment with them, or if I will just have to pay if they sign me. If you could answer any of those questions it would be so greatly appreciat

Dana Wrote: Hi Dania, I am 22 attending my first open call in attempt to be signed with a major agency in New York City. Can you give me any insight into the kind of questions I should expect to be asked? Thanks, Dana Hi there, Dana! Open calls are really informal and agencies typically don't spend a lot of time with each model so you won't have to worry about getting a ton of questions asked like you would in an interview situation. Some open calls are as quick as an agency staff member taking your snapshots to another room to evaluate with their peers (while you wait in the lobby) and then returning with a "yes" or "no" answer. Others take a bit more time (by that, I mean a few minutes) with each model and may ask simple questions like: - Do you have any modeling experience? - Are you in school/working? - What is your availability/schedule like to accept work? - Why do you want to be a model? Very generic things like that to get a se

Kadani Iavy Wrote: Hi Denise. Am 20,and new to modelling..34-28-34 are my measurements and I'd love to pursue high fashion..please help me on how I can start. Hey, Kadani! I don't know your height so I can't say for certain that you would be a fit for high fashion but the best way to find out where you should start would be to check out the link below. It will take you to a blog post I wrote about how to get started in modeling: http://amodelsdiary.blogspot.com/p/where-do-you-start-in-modeling.html Make sure to read closely the requirements I have listed. They're in different colors so it is easy to spot. That info will tell you what kind of model you can ideally be (according to agency standards) and the next steps you should take. Hope that helps!

Anonymous Wrote: hi, i wanted to know if you have done an operation on your leg and you have a scar or a mark there , will that scar have an effect or will it be a setback if you want to be a model.  Hi, Anonymous! Scars in general can be a pain to deal with if you want to become a model but whether or not it will prevent you from pursuing modeling seriously depends on how large the scar is and how dark/noticeable it is compared to your natural skin tone. If it's light and slightly faded, that shouldn't be a problem for agencies. But if it's really large and not as easy to conceal with body makeup then you might run into some challenges. However, Photoshop is able to make those kinds of things disappear so I say go for it and attend open calls to see if the agencies you're interested in give you any feedback about your scar and if it would be something they could work around or not. Hearing feedback straight from the horse's mouth is the best

Anonymous Wrote: hey! Im female, im 16 and 5ft9/10 and thinking about persueing modeling, I had my ears pierced but they have close up, but i was really wanting the cartilage of my ear done and my belly button pierced! would you advise not to?? I really want to but I am not sure... Hey, Anonymous! Belly button piercings are really common these days and aren't as much of an issue as it used to be so that's the good news. As far as the cartilage piercing, it's growing to become more popular and I'm sure agencies have seen their share of this type of piercing. What is important to keep in mind when it comes to this subject is that if you do get the piercings, you may be asked to remove them for modeling assignments from time to time. So that's something to consider. You basically have two options: 1) Get the piercings, wait for them to heal and then submit to agencies. It is important to note that cartilage piercings are slow to heal and can take, on aver

Anonymous Wrote: Hello!! I just recently turned 19 and I am a little over 5'8". My measurements are roughly 34-25-37 and I weight about 129. Can you please tell me what I need to weigh or how much weight I need to lose to become a model, or if I even have a chance considering my height and age. Thank you so much!!!! Hi, Anonymous! What matters more to agencies are measurements so if you want to have some kind of guideline, you'll want to consider that the "industry standard" is 34-24-34 (bust, waist and hips in inches). However, you can be one inch larger in any or all of those areas so 35-25-35 would be the max. You have the minimum height for fashion modeling so if you wanted to pursue that, then you'd want to focus on slimming down your hip measurement, which can be difficult. There are exercises and other health related info that's just an online search away, though, so it would be worth looking into and seeing if you can find resources to h

Anonymous Wrote: Hello, I'm trying to become a model, so i'm going to attend my first casting. I am thinking about having some pictures with me. but since i'm just starting I don't have a portfolio and i dont have too many pictures to put on a portfolio, so I would like to know where should i put them. Since I dont have portfolio I would like to know where should I have them when going to the casting. thank you! Hey, Anonymous! I don't know what kind of photos you have, what the sizes are or if they're professional or non-professional but agencies are perfectly fine with you bringing non-professional snapshots that are no smaller than 4"x6" but no larger than 5"x7". You can just bring those as they are without a portfolio or other type of carrying/display case but make sure to write your name, stats and contact info on the back of each photo in case they get separated. If you have professional images that are larger than the si

Sarah Wrote: Hi D, I have been signed with my agency for a year now and wishing to sign wish on in another state closer to me. I don't know if i am meant to approach my agency about it, as they have not said anything about having another agency. please help xoxox Hi, Sarah! The first thing you need to do is refer to your copy of the contract you signed. That will have the answer to your question without having to ask your agency about it. You'll want to find any of the following keywords: - Non-Exclusive - Exclusive If your contract states that it is Non-Exclusive, that means you'll be able to sign with more than one agency as long as those agencies also offer Non-Exclusive contracts. However, if it is Exclusive, then that means you won't be able to sign with another agency. So it is important to find that information in your contract. It'll be there--it wouldn't be a legitimate modeling agency contract without mentioning it. Best of luc

Derrione Mobley Wrote: Hi beautiful! I've been following your blog for a month now, so I trust your judgment. I would like to submit to About Faces Models and Talent, but I've seen reports on the Internet that they charge as much as $2,000 for training/classes. However, there are others who have made rebuttals, saying it is all worth it in the end. Is it worth it or should I look into another agency? I'm only asking this but you have said before that modeling classes are unnecessary. Hi there, Derrione! I'm a firm believer that you shouldn't have to spend a fortune to get started in the industry and to always be wary of any red flags, such as charging exorbitant amounts for classes, training, workshops, etc. As long as they are requiring the funds after offering a contract to an individual and not before (that would be considered an "upfront fee," which is illegal in the US), they are within their right to do that and it is entirely up to the ind

Anonymous Wrote: Hi Luv, I want to sell some of my photoshoot images on my modeling website for some money..Do I need permission from my photographers and do I have to give them some of the profits? I'm not selling them for much.. All of the photographers have signed a basic model release form. I've heard different answers to this. I live in California. Please help...Thanks! :) Hey there, Anonymous! If you have the copies of the model release forms you signed, you'll want to revisit those and read over them to see if that subject is covered (or ask for copies from the photographers if you don't have a copy handy). Not all model releases are the same and since I don't know what the ones you signed say, I can't readily say whether or not you are obligated to share any profits or ask for permission to sell your images. Model release forms aside, you'll want to practice professional courtesy and reach out to the photographers that took the ph

Anonymous Wrote: Hello, I'm 14 and I'm 5'2 and people say I'm too short to be a model, but my mom says I just can't do runway. Also, I have a lip piercing. Can I still be a model even if I'm short, and if so, are there any things you would reccomend for me to get noticed? Hi, Anonymous! Your mom is correct, you can't do runway but you can do teen modeling and commercial/print. So those are the types of agencies you should look for. You'd have to be willing to remove your lip piercing for your photoshoots, portfolio images, castings and booked jobs if you got signed by an agency, however, so just be aware of that. But they won't ask you to have it out forever, just when you have to be in front of the camera so your piercing likely wouldn't close. The best place to start would be to locate the agencies close to you in order to visit their websites and see what the requirements are and what types of photos you should send. You'll wan

Anonymous Wrote: Hi I was wondering if I could lie and round my height up a half inch when submitting my photos to agencies? I'm 5'6 1/2 and would to like record my height as 5'7. Also I would like to submit to be a commercial and print model for some of these more well known agencies and I've seen that some will represent maybe a couple that are my height. Should I still apply when they say they typically seek 5'9 even though they have a few exceptions? Also I'm on the older side at 23. Thanks! Love everything about your blog!! Hey, Anonymous! I love having you as a reader! :-) Rounding up a half inch is common but it doesn't make much of a difference for commercial/print, which tends to be more flexible when it comes to height in general compared to fashion and runway so you likely wouldn't need to round up if it isn't necessary. Just know that regardless of what you put down as your height, the agency will measure you without shoes in

Lexi Koch Wrote: Hi Diana. I am 14 and 5'0" and don't know what modeling to go into. I also am not the most skinny as a model and would like some exercises to flatten my stomach and thighs. I also live in Westfield, IN and there are not many options for modeling for me. Where should I start? Hi, Lexi! At your age and height you would be fit for teen and commercial/print modeling. Below are the names and websites of IN agencies that have teen models and/or commercial/print: Helen Wells Agency http://helenwellsagency.com/home New View Management Group http://www.nvmodels.com/become-a-model-or-actor/ Indy Models http://indymodels.com/careers.htm? Talent Fusion http://www.talent-fusion.com/p/representation A.C.T. II Model & Talent Management https://www.act2talent.com/become-a-model.html Below is another link that goes to an exercise regimen that I've found to be really useful in shedding unwanted pounds in a natural and healthy way (I use it my

Emily Antoinette Day Wrote: Hi, My name is Emily Day and I am interested in becoming a Bridal Model. What are the steps that I need to take in order to achieve that goal? Thank you! Hi there, Emily! You can go the agency route or the freelance route. The agency route obviously involves submitting your snapshots/attending open calls at the offices of agencies within a 2 hour's drive from where you live and seeing if they'd be interested in signing you. If you got signed, that would be the opportunity to talk to your agent about your goals for bridal modeling and seeing if they'd be able to submit you for that type of work. The freelance route would involve you being the one to find work and connect with people in the bridal industry. If you go this route, I would suggest doing an online search for bridal fairs/expos in your city/state and using the search results list to find out who the production companies are that put on these events. Reaching out to the pro

Anonymous Wrote: Hi, I am going to college in LA and I want to become a model so I am sending photos to different managements and I wanted to send photos to managements in New York. Would I be able to stay in LA or would I have to move? Hey, Anonymous! Many agencies have offices in both LA and NYC so that would be the best case scenario where you'd easily be able to work in both markets if the agency in LA feels that would be in your best interest and that of the agency's. However, if you sign with an agency in LA that doesn't have an office in NYC, then you would be dealing with two different agencies in two different markets (if a New York agency wanted to sign you as well). I really wouldn't advise submitting to New York agencies if you know you realistically wouldn't be able to spend much time working in that market and aren't willing to relocate. Many agencies require models to be within a 2 hour's drive from where you live, however, on occa

Anonymous Wrote: Hello! I am 5'9 and my bust and waist fit within the model range. However my hips are the problem area. I unfortunately have large hips. My current measurements are 32-25-37. I have wanted to be a model ever since I was a little girl and recently joined a gym as I am 16 and want to start getting serious. Do you know how I can get my measurements down for my waist? I am not sure what I should do because most internet sources only talk about getting a larger behind not a smaller one. Thank you for your help!!! I really appreciate it!!!!  Hi, Anonymous! Your waist is within the max allowed by agencies so as long as you can maintain your waist size and not get any bigger in that area, you'll be totally fine. I don't know your body type but getting hip measurements down tends to be more challenging than slimming down your waist. If you maintain a healthy eating regimen and exercise several times a week, you can naturally lose weight and see if that m

Taylor Wrote: I'm Taylor and I live around Jefferson City, Missouri. I would like to become a model but have no experience and am already 18. I'm also 5'8 and thin but I have a small tattoo on my shoulder blade. Is there any hope for me? Hey there, Taylor! There is hope for you! :-) The small tattoo on your shoulder blade can easily be covered with makeup so that shouldn't be a problem.  Below are the names and websites of agencies in Missouri that you'll want to check out to see how to submit yourself and get your foot in the door in the modeling industry: West Model & Talent Management http://westmodelmanagement.com/be-discovered/open-calls/ Talent Unlimited http://www.talentunlimited.net/repinfo.cfm Centro Models http://centromodels.com/be_discovered/ Make sure to follow all the instructions/guidelines on the website and you should be good to go!