How to become a model in India?

Whether you are male or female trying your luck with modeling, the following steps will help you increase your chances of success in becoming a model in India. The tactics may change but strategies will remain more or less the same.

People will discourage you with all sorts of things like you should be very beautiful, tall, etc. Though there is some truth to this statement, becoming a model is much more than that. It is just like any business except that here the business is your representation or your body. So network and experience will go a long way even in the business of becoming a model.

If you are still not sure about choosing modeling as a career you may want to take a look at another post in which we have discussed the ins and outs of choosing modeling as a career in India

Let me give you a point-by-point action plan:

1. Decide what type of model you want to be

If you are thinking about becoming a model for some time, you’ll be well aware of the type of model you want to be. For starters, let’s discuss what type of models are there so that you can choose one for yourself.

If you are new to this industry chances are you may not be aware of the fact that there are many options to become a model. The type of model you want to become will decide a lot about what you need to learn and practice. Some of the options available are:

• Fashion model
• Fitness Model
• Fit Model
• Runway or Catwalk Model
• Commercial Model
• Plus-Size Model
• Swimsuit or Lingerie Model
• Promotional Model
• Mature Model
• Child Model

Read this post if you want to know more by Vanessa Helmer from thebalancecareers.com

2. Creating a public Instagram profile

Social media is a must, particularly Instagram. Don’t waste your time with other social media profiles. Instagram is the best visual platform for creative people to show their talent. It will give you an edge over others. Even before getting a portfolio start posting your pics on Instagram.

Building social media following will help you in the long run. You will come across as someone who has some influence and trust me brands are not only looking for beautiful faces. They want much more these days.

Start with social media because it’s cheap and easiest to start. I would recommend starting with Instagram.

3. Tell everyone that you want to be a model (networking)

This is contrary to common sense but the more people you tell that you want to be a model, the more people would be aware of your ambitions, and who knows when someone can help you somewhere. This will help you to start your network early on.

4. Practice your poses & walking or Start practicing at home

Practice various poses and find what suits you best because that’s what you are going to do most of the time during shoots.

Practicing your poses is important. But it becomes even more important if you feel camera conscious. You should spend more time practicing if that’s the case. The more time you spend, the better you’ll become at handling yourself in front of the camera

5. Get in Shape or Train & Excercise

Well, this should be a no-brainer! To be a model you need to look your best. You don’t need to look like someone you have seen in a magazine. It’s just that whoever you are you should look your best. You may even be a plus-size model, but trying to be the best you are, will help you win the game. Start working out on your own or join a gym.

Traning and exercising help you to look your best. As looks are premium in the modeling industry. So it is a prerequisite for any budding model to train and exercise so that he/she can remain fit.

6. Get a portfolio or Build your portfolio

The portfolio is the business card for any model. So the better it is made, the more helpful it will be. A professionally made portrait portfolio is all you need. It may be a little expensive for new entrants but trust me this will be the most important investment after your looks. So don’t pinch pennies here.

A professional portfolio can be very expensive to shoot. You will look to spend somewhere from 35,000 to 1,50,000. It can be quite expensive for newcomers who are just dipping their toes into this. Instead of hiring a professional photographer, newcomers or anyone for that matter should consider “Time for Print” or “Test Shoots” as a valid option. It will help you get a professional portfolio essentially free. Check here for free/test shoots near you.

But if you seriously don’t have any budget for it, you should look for Time for Print options. Time for Print is the collaboration opportunity with professional portrait photographers to get a portfolio made in exchange for your time. If you want to know more about Time for Print, go here.

7. Increase your visibility

Create a listing here and let yourself be discovered by agencies around you. Visibility is all that matters in this industry. The more connections you have more will be chances for you to beg some modeling assignments.

8. Gain experience

Test Shoots or Time for Print are your best bet. You will gain experience, get a great portfolio essentially free, and will get great links in the industry. Start here.

9. Take relevant classes

Even though looks are touted as the most important in the modeling industry. But many add-on features are important like being well-spoken, knowledgeable, etc.

10. Look for an agent

An agent will help you to get connected with people from your industry. He’ll bring you work, connect you to modeling agencies and help you to grow your network. An agent in modeling is an indispensable resource. He will be your representative for the signing agencies.

11. Look for opportunities to be noticed

In this industry, your network will be really important. It will be as important if not more than your talent. Try to do collaborations with professionals from your industry. It will give you much need exposure and provide networking opportunities. If you see any opportunities to get noticed, don’t wait, jump right on it.

These are some tips I had for you. Hopefully, they’ll help.