It is a place rife with potential for scammers and criminals to take advantage of young and easily manipulated girls. In order to be successful, a model must take steps in the right direction and be aware of the common industry practices.
Choose the right agency
Fashion modeling is a specific skill set in areas such as Catalogs and Runway modeling, that an agency should not only specialize in but have experienced staff to coach and guide you. Choosing the right agency is half the battle won. The main indicators are that, a good agency won't ask you to take nudes or sexually compromising photos, and it would have a good credible online platform and reputation. Hence, do your research and choose a legitimate and established agency. Also check with the agency how they can help you develop in the fashion modeling sector.
Make an impression that lasts
Submit good quality photographs to the agency when you are applying. Simple makeup, solid colored clothing and photo background, without any edits whatsoever is what you need to submit. Contrary to what most people think, agencies are not looking for a ready-made model, but rather a natural and humble talent they can work with. Submit a face shot, and body shot minimally. Similarly, if you get called up for an interview, dress simply and impress them with your confidence.
Be aware of the fakes and scammers
There are many pseudo-agencies and clients who will con you in a million different ways, such as forcing you to have to get intimate, abusing drugs and alcohol, and deceiving you into thinking that these are necessary sacrifices to progress in the industry. Truth is they will ultimately destroy your career rather than develop it. Never fall prey to these con artists and always stand firm on your values. You never have to do anything you don't like, and modeling just like any other job poses chances for success without any need to resort to vices.
Lead a healthy and clean lifestyle
Female models of all kinds would give their first advice as to lead strict diets that enforce eating clean, low-carbohydrate and low- glycemic index foods, free of unhealthy sugar and salts. What you eat is truly what you are, when you're a model. Exercising 3 to 4 times a week is also vital to keeping your body in shape to fit the specific criterions of fashion modeling. A healthy lifestyle also results in a natural skin glow which sets you apart from models that need a lot of makeup to look good. If you ever wanted a flawless skin, this is the best most organic strategy you can find, and of course, one that needs incredible discipline to follow too.
Practice
Agencies and major clients deal with many models. In order to be a successful female model, you must have good knowledge of runway walking, and the various stationery poses you can do for the camera. Most importantly you have to execute them with grace and confidence, which will only come naturally with adequate practice.
Conclusion
All in all, be willing to strive despite the struggle. Many at times, during the photo shoot clients are more interested in the final project outcome than a model's needs and give them a tough time in trying various outfits and expecting you stand in different weather conditions for long periods of time. Such is the sacrifice a model who wants to be successful must commit on.
