2. Get As Much Exposure As Possible

The more exposure you get to agents, scouts and clients the higher the odds become that you will be successful in finding representation and ultimately booking jobs.

When you are first starting out the most important exposure is to the agents and scouts. Why? Because they are the ones that have all the clients. They are the ones who are going to promote you and get you booked for jobs.

There are several ways you can get exposure to the agents and scouts:

Email your photos to the agencies - This can be fast, but often not effective. Almost all of the top agencies that post an email address on their website post a generic email that is rarely, if ever, checked. Agencies are so inundated with emails there is no way they can look through each and every one. Most agents have private email addresses that they only share with other professionals. Unless your photos are emailed directly to an agency by a reputable agent it is unlikely that your photos will be seen.

Send your photos out by mail to hundreds of agencies - This can be a very costly and time consuming method. If you add up the cost of printing several hundred photos with the cost of envelopes and postage, it can easily add up to hundreds of dollars. Not the best option.

3. Attend a modeling convention - Modeling conventions can be a lot of fun and a great way for new models to get exposure and to learn about the industry. However, conventions can be extremely expensive, usually costing over $5000.00 to attend, and are well out of reach for the majority of aspiring models.

4. Submit your photos to the agencies through ModelScouts - We like this idea best. :) ModelScouts has direct connections to all the top modeling agencies in the world. At ModelScouts we provide you with the exposure you need to agents and scouts representing over 150 of the world's most powerful agencies. Including agencies that specialize in high fashion, runway, commercial print and television, plus-size, petite, showroom and fit modeling for male, female and child models. ModelScouts is affordable, safe, secure and confidential. We welcome all ages, all heights and all sizes.
 
3. Don't Spend Money on Expensive Photoshoots

When you are first starting out it is not necessary to spend money on expensive photoshoots.

All the agents and scouts really need to see in the beginning is simple snapshots. They just want to see how you look naturally with very little makeup and simple clothing.

If the agents and scouts feel you have potential they may then recommend that you invest in professional photos that are appropriate for your look and the market for which you are best suited. Some agencies may even offer to cover the expense of a professional photoshoot that you can then pay back once you start booking modeling jobs.

Here are some tips when taking snapshots for the agents and scouts to view:

• Photos should be clear and in focus
• Include at least one headshot and a full length shot
• Keep makeup to a minimum
• Keep hairstyles simple and well groomed
• Keep clothing simple and in good taste
• Include a swimsuit photo if you are comfortable wearing a swimsuit
• Please do not upload nude photos
• Fancy clothing and makeup is unnecessary for kids. They should look like regular kids.
• Include any experience or training that you have
• Please do not wear fur in your photos. It is offensive to some agents and clients, and it's just wrong.
• Remember that first impressions are important

4. Modeling Schools Are Not Necessary

You do not need to go to modeling school to become a model. To become a fashion model you either have the look the agencies are looking for or you don't, modeling classes will not make a difference.

We do not have anything against modeling schools and some of the better ones can be very helpful in teaching poise, style, makeup and hair techniques. We just don't think they should be calling themselves modeling schools, but rather, finishing schools.

However, we do recommend that aspiring fashion and commercial models enroll in acting workshops if possible. Learning proper auditioning skills and how to work on set, with cameras, etc. will give you an edge over your competition.

5. Only Work With Legitimate Modeling Agencies

Finding a legitimate modeling agency can be a difficult endeavor. How do you know who to trust, does the agency have your best interests in mind, or are they just trying to make money by selling you unnecessary courses or photoshoots? It can be a daunting task to try to wade through the mine field of legitimate and Illegitimate agencies.