In recent decades, the plus size modeling industry has experienced rapid development. This is great news for a big woman who has always wanted to be a model. To become a plus size model, you must first determine what type of modeling you will be engaged in. After that, you should start taking serious steps by learning the ins and outs of this industry and the agencies that work in it, and knowing how to contact them. You also have to take care of your physical and mental health, which are the main capital to realize your dream of becoming a plus size model.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Adjusting to a Plus Size Model Profile
Step 1. Know your height and body size
The ideal height and body size in the modeling world varies, depending on the field you are in, such as print media modeling, stage shows, or fit modeling. For print media modeling, models are usually required to have a minimum height of 160 cm and sizes 12 to 18 (X to XL). For a fashion show stage, models must have a minimum height of 172 cm and a size 10 to 20/22 (M to XL/XXL). For fitting modeling, the model usually has to be around 162 to 172 cm tall and a size 18 (XL). For commercial modeling, there is no specific height requirement, but must have a size 12 to 18 (X to XL).
While these height and size requirements may seem rigid, there are always exceptions. If you do not meet the criteria above, commercial modeling, fitting clothes, only certain body parts (part modeling), and modeling for local boutiques and specialty boutiques can be good choices
Step 2. Take care of the body
Models are required to have healthy skin, hair, teeth and nails. Plus size models should also have a toned and well-proportioned body. Take care of your body by consuming lots of water, doing regular exercise, and eating a balanced diet.
- It is recommended to drink 8 glasses of water a day, 250 ml each, or 2 liters or half a gallon.
- The recommended exercise routine is 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of high-intensity exercise per week. Examples of moderate-intensity exercise include brisk walking and swimming, while high-intensity exercise includes running. Or, you can also combine moderate and high intensity exercise.
- Prioritize eating healthy fruits, vegetables, meats and whole grains over highly processed, low-nutrient foods, high-fat meats, and sugary foods.
Step 3. Have confidence in your body
Having high self-confidence is very important if you want to be a plus size model. Get to know your body shape and make sure you feel comfortable, both with its shape and size. If you feel uncomfortable with your appearance, it will radiate, making it difficult for you to realize your dream of becoming a plus size model.
- Have confidence in your body by practicing positive affirmations. Get rid of negative affirmations, such as “I am fat” or “I am not attractive enough” with positive affirmations, such as “I love my body,” “My body can do amazing things,” or “I love my curves.”
- Focus on the things you like about yourself. Choose a body part, such as your hands, chest, thighs, or even your tan. Then say compliments about that part out loud, for example, "My thighs look beautiful in these jeans."
- You can also focus on what the body part can do instead of how it looks. For example, instead of belittling or praising the physical condition of your feet, say thank you because they allow you to walk, exercise, dance, and can take you everywhere.
Part 2 of 3: Getting the Materials and Skills Needed
Step 1. Do your research
Look for information about agencies that work with plus size models. Not all agencies do that, although more and more agencies have divisions for plus-size models. For example, modeling agencies like Big Beauty Models Management target plus-sized models. Also, look for plus size models that work with agencies and make statistics about those models, such as height and size, to see if the agency is right for you.
There's nothing wrong with learning and getting to know the top models, photographers, and hairdressers who are poor across the industry. For example, learn about the world's first plus-size model, Melissa Aronson. By having this knowledge, you will have a clearer picture of the industry you want to be in. This knowledge will show the agency that you are serious about modeling and have been considering it for some time
Step 2. Avoid scams
Always make sure that the agency that catches your eye has a good reputation. Visit top agency websites to find out how they work. If someone asks for a sum of money to meet you, be wary. Chances are the agency is fake.
- Never pay a manager or agent to be part of a “Lookbook” or find a contract for you. Legal agencies work on a commission basis and receive their commission only after they get a contract for you.
- Be wary of talent scouts and online agencies that offer the lure of promoting or listing your name on their websites for free or for a fee.
Step 3. Create a good modeling portfolio
For a model, photos will be a resume. So, make sure you do a quality photo test. In this photo test, the model usually hires a photographer to take photos that will be included in the portfolio. We recommend that you hire a professional makeup artist and hair stylist for this photo session. The services of a professional photographer to make high-quality photos are priced between IDR 2,000,000 to IDR 7,000,000, depending on the photographer. You need two main photos: a headshot and a full body shot.
- A head shot is a photo that only shows the shoulders and head. You can choose open shoulders or wear a simple top, a light cardigan, or a button-down shirt.
- Full body photos show all parts of the body from head to toe. You should wear clothes that highlight your body shape, hair, and skin tone. If you are confused about what clothes to wear, the key is simplicity. Clothing should be simple, for example, showing one plain color, without a logo. Hair and makeup should also be simple and natural.
Step 4. Practice
Before attending an audition or taking photos for a portfolio, you should practice. Before practicing, you should know your body shape and how to move. You have to look for the best sides, interesting angles, and shapes that will accentuate your body.
- Mirrors and lighting are your best friends in this case. Stand in front of a mirror to study your body shape so you can perfect your posture. Try adjusting the intensity of the lighting, for example, bright, dim, dazzling, and tinted, to see how it affects your skin tone. Also, experiment with different angles, for example, up, down, front, or side, to see which angle will accentuate your facial features.
- Remember to always position the limbs (hands and feet) away from the body to create separation. This trick will help create the illusion that your arms and legs are slim and toned.
- Remember to lengthen your neck, position your jaw at a certain angle toward the camera, and learn how far you can turn your head before your nose line "breaks" your cheeks. Practice these poses in front of the mirror regularly until you can do them naturally.
Part 3 of 3: Contacting the Agency
Step 1. Take an audition
Find out if the agency holds open auditions and come! In addition, find out the special requirements proposed by the agency, such as what to bring and what to wear. For example, wear your best clothes. Or, they could just ask participants to wear jeans and a simple top or dress. Avoid wearing clothes that are too flashy.
The agency may ask you to bring 2-3 of the best clothes. They can also ask you to bring your best photos. Never give them a copy of the original photo as they usually don't return it
Step 2. Contact the agency via email
If the agency doesn't hold open auditions, you may be able to submit your portfolio online or by email. Usually you just need to send a few photos, body measurements and contact number.
Remember to include information such as name, height, weight, bust, hip and waist circumference, age, hair color, eye color, and contact information (phone number, email, and address) on the back of the photo
Step 3. Build a network
If you are really serious about pursuing a career in modeling as a plus size model, networking is a major asset. Try to participate in recruiting events or conferences that are usually attended by well-known modeling agencies. You can introduce yourself to their representatives and familiarize yourself with the agency. Networking also lets you meet other plus size models. Connecting with other models can pave the way for connecting with other agencies and getting hands-on tips on how to be successful in the industry.
Always display a professional attitude when talking to agencies or their representatives. Introduce and tell us a little about yourself, for example “Hello, my name is Dian Gunawan. I've been in modeling for a year, but I want to open up new horizons in my career. Your agency seems to match my profile. May I leave you information and photos?” Or, “Hello, my name is Dian Gunawan. I've heard a lot about the greatness of your agency (you can name some of the photographers and hairdressers who work with the agency here), and I look forward to having the opportunity to work with your agency. May I leave you information and photos?"
Tips
- Do some research on the modeling industry and the agencies working in it to see if this field is right for you.
- Have confidence in your body!
Warning
- Never be persuaded to spend a lot of money on portfolio photos.
- Be careful with information about model searches that you hear on the radio or see on the pages of newspapers or magazines.
