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Modeling Tips for Beginners: The Important Stuff You Need To Know

Modeling definitely has a certain glamourous feeling to it that simply can't be replaced by anything else.  The best part about modeling isn't the popularity, nor the money, nor even the work that you get. The most rewarding part of modeling is knowing that although almost everyone can model, you are actually taking the plunge and living out your dreams. The question is, though, how do you get started? Here are some tips.

• The best tip that I can give you when it comes to learning how to model is simple - you need to practice.  Every day, I go to a mirror and practice different poses and expressions in the mirror. Sometimes, I'll try new poses, sometimes I won't. The important thing to know when you are a model is to know how your body looks in different poses.
• Clip out photos that really inspire you when it comes to modeling. Flipping through magazines and finding photographs of your favorite models will also give you ideas on how to model for your next shoot. Practice the poses at least 2 times a week!
• Don't arrive onset with your makeup already done, but do arrive looking neat and clean.
• Knowing what genres of modeling you want to do - and what genres you don't want to do - is priceless. Models who dislike being in bikinis shouldn't do glamour modeling. Models who can't stand the look of multiple piercings shouldn't be an alternative model. If you can stay still for long periods of time, art modeling might be a good place to start. If you don't know what genre you are supposed to be modeling, you can't figure out how to model for that shoot. Different poses are needed for different genres. 
• Remember, you might find yourself pigeonholed into one genre depending on what look you naturally have. Tall, lanky women do well in high fashion. Models who are curvier, more feminine, and look great in bikinis are likely to do glamour. Women who are known for unusual features do well in hair and makeup modeling, etc.  Flaunt your differences, don't hide them!
• Build up a great wardrobe that displays your body well. A good way to do this is to browse sales racks and find clothes that just look amazing on you. Avoid the color white as the main part of your wardrobe - white has a tendency to look strange on camera. Always bring a nude bra, a black bra, nude panties, black panties, a dress, jeans, and a top. These staples are the bare minimum to a good modeling bag.
• Along with clothes, bring at least 3 pairs of shoes. High heels, a set of flats, and boots/sandals are good options. The more options you have at a shoot, the better.
• Models who can do their own makeup will always get more jobs than models who can't. Take a couple of classes in makeup, or look up tutorials on sites like Youtube. It's also a good idea to always pack a makeup bag with foundation, coverup, eyeshadow, lipstick, eyeliner and blush. If you strike up a friendship with an experienced makeup artist, you might find out new modeling tips for makeup and hair modeling. It's not unusual for ex models to become makeup artists, so asking a makeup artist on set how to model makes sense.
• Do TFP, also known as time for portfolio. This means that although you are not getting paid in money, you are getting paid in experience, portfolio-worthy shots, and also networking. When you first start out, the more TFP shoots you do, the better. Not only will they give you valuable modeling tips, but they will also point out how to model better.
• A rule of thumb for safety is to always bring an escort to your non-business-related photoshoots. Many photographers claim that this isn't "professional" of the model, however, it's better to be safe than sorry.  Freelance models should always team up when it comes to shoots. Either bring an escort or another model. Asking for references is a good way to stay safe, but always err on the side of caution.
• Find a reputable agency which fights for your rights as a model, along with having a good track record. It's always OK to call your agent if something bad happens during a shoot. A good agency will also give valueable modeling tips when it comes to shooting with fashion photographers.
• Don't let yourself be pressured into shoots that you don't want to do. It's better to cancel.
• Remember that making friends in the modeling world is one of the most important things when it comes to modeling. A good part of learning how to model is learning how to network, and learning how to market yourself well. Don't expect people to do all the legwork for you. Just as with anything else worth time, modeling is a lot of hard work, and a lot of practice. If you mess up today, just pick yourself up off the ground and remember that tomorrow is a new day!