Quick — Think about the day-to-day job of a model! What comes to mind? You may imagine models wearing nothing more than tiny swimwear at Caribbean beaches getting their pictures taken by the world's most exclusive fashion photographers. Or you may think of fashion shows under the Eiffel Tower with mannequins being paid a fortune to be prancing down the runway in stilettos. But what is real and what is just a cliché? Read on to find out the truth about the work of a model.
You're exclusively bound to your modeling agency.
FALSE
Only full-time models and models in high demand may have an exclusive contract with their modeling agency. This is especially the case for international, big agencies with high-caliber clients. Most models however may have several agencies representing them worldwide.
You must be skinny and tall to be a model.
FALSE
Most high-fashion catwalks still only show models of a specific body type. In recent times, however, more diverse bodies are being showcased in more casual environments like advertisements and street fashion. This means you don't need to be size 0 and taller than 175 cm to be a successful model. Other factors like a confident vibe, glowing skin, and a charming smile are more important for such jobs than the right body type.
Models can decide on each of the modeling jobs they sign up for.
TRUE
When signing up at a modeling agency, your agent discusses possible opportunities with you. For example, they'll ask for your consent to show your set card to clients looking for underwear models. You even may decide on a case-by-case basis.
You always get to keep your favorite designs from fashion shows.
FALSE
While it can be a fantastic reward to be gifted clothes from your modeling job, receiving gifts mostly depends on your relationship with the team. Did they like you and did you do an outstanding job? Then you may count yourself lucky and take home a piece.
The best models have the best networks.
TRUE
As in any other industry, chances are high that you make it big in the world of fashion when you know the right people who know the right people who'd love to give you a job! Since the team you're working with changes with every job, it's crucial to connect and stay in touch.
It's easy to get rich from modeling.
TRUE
Once you've found an agency and built a portfolio, the opportunities start to roll in. The more jobs you accept, the better your reputation becomes. Even smaller gigs often have a higher hourly pay than other odd jobs, and big campaigns can pay much better than a typical full-time office job.
Models only have short careers.
FALSE
Young models seem to be everywhere: on TV, in fashion magazines, and on fashion week catwalks. But where are the more seasoned models? As long as you stay in shape and well-groomed, your career can continue in the same places. Your role might shift from the seductive young woman to the glamorous mother, but there's always a demand for models of all ages.
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