The
Palmero Modeling Workbook
A series of questions and answers
to help you get started on your path to being a successful model.
Question
Q- I want to be a model, where do I start? What is the very first thing I should do? Testing? Find a photographer? Hire one? Where do I begin? Talk to me about the importance of desire and visualization in the process.
Answer
A -
Where you start is in your mind. If you can see yourself in the magazines doing
the things that other models do then you are on the right path your mind and your
body really give you clues as to where and what you should do. I always say
follow your dream. When I was starting out I would cut the picture of the model
on the cover of GQ and I would paste mine and look at it all the time, determination
and visualization are omnipotent, I did that later as well when I transitioned
into acting by putting my head shot on the television screen….I would watch the
movies with my face on the screen. You need an honest appraisal of yourself and
parental approval and support since women these days are as young as 12 and of
course tall at least 5’9. You need to be realistic as well just like a
ballerina or a football player needs to have certain attributes, well so does
modeling. You are to be an example (a model) so your weight ,skin (No
tattoos or piercing) your hair has to be natural no dying or streaking.
Guys have to have a great physique not overly muscular but be able to fit
the clothes if starting out over 18 if younger then it’s a different set of circumstances.
I would say luck (being in the right place at the right time). Of
course be photogenic!! Realizing that modeling is a career and that you
are in business for yourself (an independent contractor) which means you are
the business. It's just like if you were to start a business making cakes
or fixing cars. Modeling agencies act as the broker to the model they
take their commission from the job and you have to take care of taxes and
deductions just like you would if you owned any other business.
The first thing you should do is try to contact
a local modeling agency and ask them when they have open call. They will
usually ask you to email some snapshots of your face and one of your body with
your stats including your age, height and measurements. You must find an
agency that is licensed and is affiliated with one of the major agencies.
View their website most agencies have a place to send your pictures on
their sites. Remember that they get lots of submissions and they are busy so
may not hear back right away. If they don’t respond is either that you
don’t meet their needs or that they didn’t get it. Never give up until you speak
with the New Faces agent. If no luck then call again and ask when they have
open calls. That is specific days that they see new faces and time. Patience
and humility area a must. If the reception area is full sign in and wait bring
a book to read and wait your turn. Sometimes the receptionist will hand you
over a registration form, if you are a minor a parent needs to be with you.
They will ask you if you have any pictures to show them, since a lot of
times they will just take your info and pictures to the back and if the agent
wants to meet you they will come out and take you to their office for an
interview. Some models have gone to conventions or joined websites that
all they do is take your money and a lot of it.
