Can anyone become a model? Well anyone can stand in front of a camera and have a photo taken of them, this however doesn’t make you a model. Modelling is a massively competitive and gruelling business and there are some qualities you require, as well as self discipline and a lot of luck to be able to make a living from modelling.

There are lots of different kinds of modelling - fashion, glamour, figure work and each have pretty much set attributes required for you to be able to succeed. However they all have things in common if you seriously want to pursue this as a career.

• Looking after your health. There are exceptions to all rules, but clear skin, being physically fit, healthy hair and overall symmetry will certainly give you an advantage over others. Other qualities such as height and weight are important depending on what type of modelling you want to do.
• What kind of model do you want to be. Physical limitations such as height will restrict the type of modelling you want to pursue, so be realistic about what you want to achieve. If you’re 5′2″ you shouldn’t expect to get a lot of runway work.

• Get some photos taken. As a bare minimum you should get a headshot and a body-shot done. These don’t have to be taken by a professional photographer if submitting to agencies, however they should be in-focus and well lit. They are an indication of potential and an agency will have shots taken of you if you are taken on their books. Most reputable agencies don’t charge for this as they recoup all costs  from hiring you out.

• Contact some agencies and get an appointment. Modelling is about more than just standing having pictures taken of you so make sure you are comfortable in front of a camera, can move freely and have practiced facial expressions.

• Be professional. Be polite. Turn up on time. Be organised. Learn to accept criticism politely and get used to rejection. Always be truthful about your measurements. Word will travel about a model who is liberal with the truth and you will soon find you will have no work.

• Know your modelling limits. If you don’t want to do nude work or pose for glamour shots make sure you are upfront about this before any shoots.

• Get yourself a website built. A great and cheap way for advertising and to show people your abilities. Make sure you have only a selection of your best images on it though. Nobody wants to see 20 photos from the same shoot.

• You can use modelling competitions as a way to get into an agency or get your face known. However make sure they are being run by reputable agencies.

• If you find that working with an agency isn’t working out for you can go freelance. There are lots of websites with model portfolios out there, however all the previous points should be followed just the same.

• As mentioned before – get used to rejection. You won’t suit everybody, but with enough drive and ambition and with a bit of luck you could make a good living from being a model.