Being a male model doesn't mean getting a free ride to the best parties in town. It takes hard work to be a male model, as well as long hours, and sometimes, little payoff. That being said, breaking into the modeling industry as a male is a bit easier than it is for women, because male models don't have to meet the same rigid physical requirements all the time and can work for many years -- some of them working well into their fifties. If you want to know if you've got what it takes to be a male model, just follow along.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Getting the Spotlight
Step 1. While male models have a little more flexibility when it comes to appearance than female models, there are some general standards that you must meet if you want to be a male model
But if you don't meet all of these standards, don't despair; if you really have “looks”, then you might be able to find a job even if you are below average height or over average weight. Here are some considerations to decide whether or not you can jump into the world of male modeling:
- The standard height is between 180 and 188 centimeters.
- Unlike female models, who mostly retire by the age of 25, male models can continue to work well into their 50s.
- Men aged 15 to 25 make up the “youth” market.
- Men aged 25 to 35 make up the “adult male” market.
- The typical weight for men is between 70 and 82.5 kilograms, but it will depend on your Body Mass Index.
- The average size for a suit is 40 regular and 42 long.
- Usually, the male modeling industry doesn't look for men with a lot of hair on their chest and arms. Be prepared to wax before pursuing your career.
Step 2. Decide what type of modeling you are interested in
The type of modeling you engage in can affect how you look at work, the types of photos you take to find a job, and the initial approach you take when starting your modeling career. For example, if you want to be a runway model, you have to meet different standards than a catalog model. Here are the types of modeling you can pursue:
- Fashion models promote fashion and apparel.
- Fashion models who work with well-known fashion houses or fashion designers.
- The editorial model only works for certain publications.
- Runway models appear in fashion exhibitions.
- Showroom model that displays clothing at a fashion party or boutique.
- Commercial print models are shot for magazines, newspapers, billboards, and other means of printing.
- Catalog models are hired to appear in the catalog.
- Promotional models work at meetings or trade shows.
- Specialist models specialize in one body part such as the hands, feet, neck, hair, or soles of the feet.
- Character models are used to describe ordinary people.
- Glamor modeling focuses more on the model than the product.
Step 3. Get the spotlight
While you can skip this step and go straight to trying to sign a contract with an agency, there's nothing wrong with getting your face out there and getting some modeling experience so you have something to show when you approach the agency. Try appearing in local newspaper ads, television shows, magazines, or fashion shows. You may be able to grab the attention of the right people without going straight to the agency.
- However, this "does not" mean you should accept any job. Remember that you are trying to build and maintain your image, so don't do work that is truly below your dignity, that is not done by a real photographer, or that does not reflect who you are at all.
- Don't want to be photographed wearing nothing unless you get paid. You may be told you have to be photographed naked, but you should avoid these kinds of offers. Don't be photographed naked unless it's for a professional, reputable and mature company that pays you for your performance. If it was a fake photographer who did it, who knows where the photos would go?
Step 4. Ask to be shot for some professional photos
While you can expand your portfolio after signing an agreement with an agency, having a few photos taken with a professional beforehand will make you look professional and have something to show if you catch the attention of someone in the industry. Don't let your photos be taken by someone with a cheap camera who only has experience as a yearbook photographer; have your photos processed by an above-average quality photographer so that your appearance looks good, above average.
- Make sure the Model Release Letter is signed by every photographer you work with. This way you will know exactly what your photos are used for.
- Don't waste your time with “portrait” photographers. You want it photographed for modeling, not for school yearbook photos.
- Make sure you have a close up photo and some full-body photos.
- Because the people who need your services may want to see what your body type looks like, including full-body photos in shorts, underwear, or singlets.
- This includes the addition of a photo in a casual outfit, as well as a photo in a business attire or suit.
- Have black and white “and” color photos.
Step 5. Avoid scams
Unfortunately, nowadays scams by modeling agencies also happen. You can fall victim to almost any point along your journey, from being scammed into paying a fortune to have your picture taken by a sneaky photographer or signing a contract with a fake or reputable agency. Here are a few things you should be aware of as you travel as a model:
- Photographers who charge no sense to create your portfolio. Once you've worked with an agency, you'll be able to grow your portfolio, so avoid photographers who offer portfolios worth tens of millions, claiming that it's the only way to approach an agency.
- Agencies that charge upfront prices beyond normal prices. If the agent asks for a large registration fee and portfolio, leave him alone. The agent should not make a profit until he has found a job for you and has taken a share of your profit. Dubious agencies like these typically don't have many clients, are new to the industry, and don't have the connections needed to find you a job.
- Expensive modeling schools. Keep in mind that there are no certified schools for modeling. Sure, they can teach you how to walk, pose, and adjust facial expressions, but it's probably best if you learn these skills through books or online resources. Those schools may claim to be able to get you a job, but don't get sucked in unless they can actually prove there are other models who have got jobs because of them.
- People who out of nowhere suddenly approach you. Of course, models sometimes have stories of being randomly approached by people at events or at nightclubs and told they have “the looks”, but most of the time, this is done by sleazy people who have the intention of taking your money by inflating your ego. If these people ask for payment using fraudulent methods, this is a clear sign that you should stop contacting them. Of course, if that person proves he or she has a real connection, then you're in luck.
- People who offer money on the internet for your personal information. Avoid sites where people offer you offers in exchange for credit card and other personal information. You can be a target for identity theft.
Step 6. Consider moving to a big city
If you're really serious about being a male model, then you can't live forever in a small town with only two traffic lights. You have to move to one of the big modeling cities, such as Jakarta, Singapore, Hong Kong, New York, Los Angeles, Milan, or Paris. You may also be able to find work at the regional level in other cities such as Surabaya, Bandung, etc. Don't feel like you can't be a model if you can't move on now; try searching in your area or contact an agency directly from your location. (more on that later)
Part 2 of 3: Making a Contract With an Agent
Step 1. Take an open audition
An open audition is when a modeling agency allows anyone to come into their office to audition. You have to queue up with many other models until you are called into a room to be seen by the agents and judged if you meet what they are looking for. Often, you have to wait for hours just to be seen for less than a minute. That might be a real pain in the ass, but hey, that's what you came for.
Step 2. Go to model search
Searching for a model is like an open audition, only that it's done by an agency traveling to a small town looking for a model. Since they're the ones making the effort to come to the venue, you only have to pay a small fee to come along. This is a great option if you live in a small town where there are less modeling opportunities. Just like before, your chances of getting selected are not high, but you can make some valuable connections.
Step 3. Enter a model competition
Although it is difficult, but if you win, it can be a stepping stone for you to a modeling career. Make sure the competition is a reputable contest hosted by a reputable organizer, and that you don't have to pay unreasonable registration fees. Many of these competitions will immediately offer you a contract if you win. Even if you don't win, this will be an alternative to putting yourself out there.
Make sure you meet the specific requirements to enter a modeling competition. It is very likely that you will have to prepare a photo set
Step 4. Go to the modeling convention
It's a great way to get some spotlight as well as to meet other professional models and agencies. Unfortunately, it's quite expensive to attend these kinds of conventions, so if you go, you should make the most of this opportunity by being professional and meeting as many people as possible.
Step 5. Try it yourself
Right. Another way to get hired by an agency is to contact them yourself. Search the internet for a list of top modeling agencies, such as Zema, and take note of their e-mail addresses. Then, send them an e-mail with some professional photos of you in various poses. Although to do this you need to build your portfolio first, the pay is worth it.
Step 6. Contract with a talent company
This is a great and relatively inexpensive way to introduce yourself and you don't have to do all the advertising yourself. Look for a reputable company. You have to submit your profile file and they will pass your information on to the major agencies.
Step 7. Make a contract with an agent
When you've worked hard and finally found an agent who likes you, it's time to sign a contract. Again, make sure the agent doesn't ask for any money up front. A real agent will only ask for money after he has made “you” income. Even if the agent seems logical, make sure you're accompanied by a lawyer when drafting the contract to ensure you're making a fair deal.
- When talking to an agent, you can ask about what unions you can join and also ask if you can accept a side modeling job.
- If you've signed a contract with a top agency and have the opportunity to make a lot of money, you can also see an accountant to discuss how you're going to manage your income.
Part 3 of 3: Living the Life of a Male Model
Step 1. Start looking for a job
Once you have contracted with an agency, you will begin to build your portfolio, which will help you to hire its services. The agency will help you find a modeling interview opportunity, also known as a “go-see”. So start going to interviews, be professional, and don't despair if you don't get the chance right away.
- The agency cannot “guarantee” you a job; but a good agent won't dump you if he doesn't feel you have a solid chance of finding a good job.
- Have persistence. You won't be able to work with Calvin Klein on your first interview attempt.
Step 2. Stay professional
Whether you're a big boy or just starting out, you don't want to build a reputation for being ungrateful, rude, or late. If you want to stay in the industry, here are things you must do to meet professional standards, as well as in any other job:
- Arrive on time for the appointment.
- Be polite and professional with everyone you meet.
- Consider hiring a professional trainer to help you maintain a balanced diet and to achieve optimal muscle training goals.
- Take a careful approach to your grooming and skin care.
- Take an early break the night before the work day. Getting enough sleep will prevent the appearance of dark bags under your eyes and help you look good and healthy for those who hire you.
Step 3. Keep your original job
While everyone has heard stories about male models being spotted on a Russian cargo ship or spotted at a bar in Las Vegas at 3am, the fact is that most male models don't orbit instantly and still have to work hard even after signing a contract with an agency. This means that unless you are one of the lucky few male models who can survive solely on modeling jobs, you will need to keep your initial job or find another source of income.
If your job is too heavy, find another source of income that works for you. Many male models become part-time waiters or bartenders
Step 4. Take care of your physical and mental health
Although the male modeling industry is not as tiring as the female modeling industry, male models fall into the same problems as female models, such as feeling worthless, feeling restless, or worse, having a messy diet. Here are some things to keep you healthy during your career as a male model:
- Make sure you keep eating healthy, exercising, and reminding yourself that you are valuable; Don't let the model lifestyle bring you down.
- Rejection is part of the game and if you find it easy to feel restless and self-conscious, then modeling isn't the best way for you.
- While part of the modeling lifestyle may require you to go out to parties with lots of people, don't get addicted to drugs or alcohol. Not only will this cause great mental and physical pain to you, but it will also have a negative impact on your physical appearance.
Warning
- To protect yourself when working with agencies, make sure you have everything secured in black and white. Read your contract thoroughly and understand it thoroughly before you sign it. Ask if the agency is licensed, and find out if they are members of the Association of Indonesian Model and Talent Agencies (AAMTI).
- Prevent scams by staying away from agencies that ask for a deposit, charge you for their classes, force you to use a particular photographer, charge you for makeup or other services, but advertise that your photos can be taken for free
