How to have a career in modeling

Dream of seeing your face on a cover? Follow these steps if you're serious about a modeling career.
You Will Need
* Good looks
* Close-fitting, comfortable clothes
* Snapshots of yourself

Step 1
Assess yourself honestly to decide which type of modeling you can do. High-fashion models must be tall and thin. If you’re of average height or heavier weight, try print or plus-size modeling.

Step 2
Contact modeling agencies to set up brief interviews, called “go-sees.” Some modeling agencies hold periodic open calls to meet scores of potential models at once.

Step 3
Prepare for go-sees by choosing close-fitting clothing you feel comfortable in. Women should wear natural makeup and simple hairstyles. Bring a few snapshots of yourself – a closeup of your face and some full-body shots in a swimsuit.

Don’t spend money on professional photos. An agency will help you obtain photos for your portfolio.

Step 4
Get signed by an agency. Modeling agencies find work for models and manage their careers in exchange for a cut of their pay.

Step 5
Avoid scams by researching agencies and looking out for sketchy business practices. While smaller agencies may require models to pay for their own photos, a respectable agency won’t ask for lots of money up front.

The Better Business Bureau can help you assess an agency.

Step 6
Have a realistic backup plan. Modeling can be a short career.

Fact: Fashion Model Barbie was introduced in 1999.