Starting a new career can be scary and trying to figure out how to become a model with so much information floating around can become overwhelming. You know you need to get a modeling agent, but is it even possible to have a career if you’re petite?
Short answer is, YES! You CAN have a modeling career as a petite model it’s just going to take a little bit of work and persistence.
I was fortunate to interview the worlds FIRST petite super model, Priscilla Moy, who walked us through the simple steps of becoming a model and how to get a modeling agent.
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Looking to become an actress, check out the video I created which talks about the 10 steps needed to launch your acting career.
Why do you Want to Be a Petite Model?
One of the first things Priscilla and I talked about was determining WHY you want to become a model.
- Do you want to become a model because everyone tells you that you should become one?
- You’re a fashion aficionado and you love wearing and styling clothes
- Photography rocks your socks and you love being in front of the camera. Maybe behind the camera as well.
- You like the attention that comes with the title of being a model
- You’re an artist with a story to tell
- Perhaps you’re a natural born salesperson and can sell a shirt with a blink of an eye. Hey, I see some of you out there! #takemymoney
These are all things to really think about and determine why you want to become a model before you begin, because let me tell you, it is a saturated market and there will be a lot of naysayers. So make your decision and stick with it!
Different aspects of a modeling career
I mentioned earlier that it was going to take a lot of work and a lot of persistence to get your modeling career going before you can work on getting a modeling agent. Don’t get discouraged!
It’s important to research and understand that a modeling career is really a lifestyle.
Casting calls can come at any time and you have to be ready to take the opportunity if it becomes available to you. There’s only so many times you can decline before the offers automatically go to someone else.
Is this a career you can afford? If you can do trades (tfp= trade for photos or tft= trade for time) for photographers, hair and make up artists, clothing etc, that’s awesome, but there will be some investing necessary on your part. Websites, your portfolio, prints.
On that note, here’s a quick article to help you save and make a few bucks here and there.
The Types Photos You Need to Get a Modeling Agent
Well, I think it’s safe to say that in order to get a modeling agent you need to get some professional photos. Think of it like a business card, if agents don’t know what you look like and what you can do, how can they trust you are capable of doing a job that they’re sending you to?
EVERYONE’S reputation is on the line.
For the petite models out there, THIS IS YOUR TIME TO SHINE! Be the sleek and powerful Tesla Model 3 that you are!
Try it all! Fitness modeling, boudoir, fashion, parts modeling (hair, hands, eyes, etc…yes, this is a real and lucrative thing).
What do YOU like? Is there a style you’re really good at? Show us!
🙂
Find ways to be creative! You’re an artist after all! How can you make your photos stand out?
Check out a few photos from Priscilla where she shows off some creative modeling poses that would make any modeling agency want to pick her up!
Remember, while you’re building up your portfolio, this is also a great way to network and work with other artists who are likely already working.
Run way is NOT your only option as a model
Let’s get this one out of our heads right now. Say it with me, “run way is NOT your only option as a model”.
This thought process has been around for a while now, and it’s time for it to go bye bye. We’re living in the times of technology and there are soooo many options for models these days.
I’ll list a few for you to get started and then you add some more.
- Commercials
- Advertisements
- Brand Ambassador
- Influencers
- Runways. You can still walk that catwalk. Not all events require models who are 5’7. FACT
Getting a Modeling Agent
This will honestly be the most difficult step. You’re amazing, talented and worth it, but there is a lot of competition and you will likely hear a lot of NO’s. I wish this weren’t the case, but I don’t want to set you up for disappointment either.
Keep in mind that NOTHING is personal. Modeling agencies may only have a few slots available on their roster. There may already be several people who look like you with the same abilities, therefore, it is up to YOU to be the driving force in your modeling career.
…nowadays the advice I would give models who are trying to make that first move is to never rely on other people to get you work. It’s nice to have agencies that will open the door to jobs here and there but the truth is, unless you hire a personal agent.. You’re one of many on a long roster.
World first petite super model, Priscilla Moy
With this being said, there are several things you can do to try and get a modeling agency.
- Ask your photographers for a referral.
- Research local talent agencies. Do NOT pay. Read this article to learn more do’s and don’ts when it comes to industry RED FLAGS
- Join groups of other models and photographers for networking and connections
- Make your portfolio so good that your work becomes known and can speak for itself.
Conclusion
The sum things up, if you’re looking to become a model, it is important to first figure out why you want to have a career before you begin reaching out to modeling agencies.
From there, it’s game time! Have a plan, get some solid photos and pave a path for your own career!
You CAN have a career as a petite model, plus size model, parts model all while representing huge brands and making money!
Anything is possible as long as you put in the work!
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