Models

Overview Nature of Work Knowledge Areas Skills Utilized Job Activities Abilities Job Conditions Work Satisfaction Education/Training

Educational Attainment Breakdown for Models College or Higher 36.1% Some College 32.5% High School or Less 31.4%

Most Significant Source of Postsecondary Education or Training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Source: U.S. Department of Labor

Formal training is limited and education beyond high school usually is not required.

Education and training. Some aspiring models opt to attend modeling schools. Modeling schools provide training in posing, walking, makeup application, and other basic tasks, but attending such schools does not necessarily lead to job opportunities. Agents continually scout for fresh faces at modeling schools, and many models are discovered in this way. Most agencies review snapshots or have "open calls," during which models are seen in person; this service usually is provided free of charge. Some agencies sponsor modeling contests and searches. Very few people who send in snapshots or attend open calls are offered contracts.

Agencies advise models on how to dress, wear makeup, and conduct themselves properly during go-sees and bookings. Because models' advancement depends on their previous work, development of a good portfolio is key to getting assignments. The higher the quality of the photos in the portfolio and the more current they are, the more likely it is that the model will find work.

Other qualifications. Models should be photogenic and have a basic knowledge of hair styling, makeup, and clothing. A model should have flawless skin, healthy hair, and attractive facial features. Specific requirements depend on the client, but most models must be within certain ranges for height, weight, and clothing size in order to meet the practical needs of fashion designers, photographers, and advertisers. Requirements may change slightly from time to time along with common perceptions of physical beauty. However, most fashion designers believe that their clothing looks best on tall, thin models. Although physical requirements may be relaxed for some types of modeling jobs, opportunities are limited for those who do not meet these basic requirements.

A model's career depends on preservation of his or her physical characteristics, so models must control their diet, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep in order to stay healthy. Haircuts, pedicures, and manicures are necessary work-related expenses for models.

The ability to relate to the camera in order to capture the desired look on film is essential; agents test prospective models using snapshots or professional photographs. For photographic and runway work, models must be able to move gracefully and confidently. Training in acting, voice, and dance is useful and allows a model to be considered for television work. Foreign language skills are useful because successful models travel frequently to foreign countries.

Models must interact with a large number of people, so personality plays an important role in success. Models must be professional, polite, and prompt because every contact could lead to future employment. Organizational skills are necessary to manage personal lives, financial matters, and work and travel schedules. Competition for jobs is keen and clients' needs are very specific, so patience and persistence are essential. State and local governments require models under the age of 18 to hold a work permit.

Advancement. Models advance by working more regularly and being selected for assignments that have higher pay. They may begin to appear in magazines, print campaigns, commercials, or runway shows with higher profiles. They may begin to work with clients who will provide them with more widespread exposure. A model's selection of an agency is an important factor for advancement in the occupation. The better the reputation and skill of the agency, the more assignments a model is likely to get. Prospective clients prefer to work with agents, which makes it very difficult for a model to pursue a freelance career. Modeling careers are relatively short.

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