Modeling Exchange

Modeling is not for the weak. It requires dedication to the business, proper maintenance of appearance, and the strength to cope with rejection and insulting criticism from directors. Even though breaking into the business is strenuous, having a developed portfolio decreases much of the stress and increases the chance for success and money.

There is no average female model. Heavier set women can become plus-sized models, women who do not have an appealing face can become hand or feet models, and older women can be featured in magazines catering to a specific age. Runway models follow a more direct criterion. The average runway model is 5' 10" and 120 pounds with an average age of 22. Unlike models that have a direct focus, such as hand, feet, or face, the body of a runway model must be entirely appealing, including the face, due to the fact that the whole body is exposed without the potential of photo-shopping out undesired attributes.

 

 

Male models experience much of the same requirements. The average male runway model is 6' 1" and 150 pounds with an average age of 27. The desired look for male models is to be buff without being bulky. Men also have the advantage of staying in the model industry at an older age because the distinguished look is often appealing on a runway that caters to the fashion of the wealthy.

Even though a model's value is based mainly on his or her physical appearance, agencies do not want to work with someone who is unreliable, demanding, or disrespectful. Models that have already built a name for themselves unfortunately disregard this guideline, but when trying to break into the business, it is necessary to be professional, even if the shoot is for Halloween costumes.

 

 

The earnings of a runway model are great incentive to endure the drudgery of lower modeling jobs. Thousands of dollars can be earned for a single exhibit. Steadily employed models average $60,000 dollars a year while models with celebrity status earn over half a million year.

The fame and fortune come with a price, however. Breaking out of the 9 to 5 work schedule has its advantages, but also downfalls. Some runway shows require the models to arrive before dawn for prep and dressing, and it may require travel. Traveling is another aspect of the modeling industry that is half blessing, half curse. Seeing the country, or even the world, is a model's dream because it means more money and prestige, but it also means leaving loved ones for periods of time and not being able to unwind in the comfort of home.

 

 

Becoming a model requires dedication, yet it is a good idea to have a backup when modeling fails. First, it is hard to break into the business. Also, the average career of a runway model is only 2 to 3 years. While it is possible to stay steadily employed longer, it is best to either have an educated back up or modeling experience in a wide variety of places. Store catalogues, magazine ads, and even acting will produce long term results.