Your ultimate guide to embracing the model in you
By Surina Mehroke
Countless aspire to become models, holding onto the cherished dream, yet what's the key to truly flourishing in this industry? Drawing from my experience as a talent agent at ICON Models, a premier agency in Toronto, I've crafted four simple steps to guide you on your journey.
Understanding the industry in Canada
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If your goal is to be on the covers of major fashion magazines in the likes of Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, then you have to first consider your current environment. Toronto is unfortunately not a major fashion city, and thus Canada does not necessarily have the climate to present you with the same fashion opportunities you would get in cities like New York or Paris.
Canada’s most lucrative modelling opportunities are based around commercials. However, if you’re set on fashion — do not be disheartened! Agencies will often place their models overseas for periods of time ranging from a couple months to a year to provide them with the most opportunities in fashion. Not only does this mean you get to travel to build your model portfolio, but it also means you don’t miss out on any of the fashion week action internationally!
Understanding where you fit in the industry
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Understanding where you fit in the industry is just as important as grasping the mechanics of the industry itself. Unlike popular beliefs, you do not have to be extremely tall or slim to be accepted in the modelling industry. While there are height and measurement requirements to work in fashion, The industry is gradually becoming more inclusive. More and more you see high fashion brands searching for plus size models. Similarly, commercial modelling welcomes a diverse array of people of all shapes and sizes!
Although modelling is commonly linked with fashion, commercial assignments can prove to be more financially rewarding, with clients often showing greater appreciation for their models.
Building a portfolio
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Building your portfolio is a crucial process as a model and is something you can do even on a budget! It is important to remember that being a model isn’t just about looking pretty but how you react in front of a camera. Modelling is a talent that takes practice and dedication to perfect. Using your knowledge of where you fit in the industry will help guide how your portfolio should look. There are two ways to gain this expertise and curate a professional portfolio.
The first is trade for prints (TFP), which refers to unpaid shoots where models lend their skills to a photographer in exchange for the pictures afterward. It is a win-win for the photographer and model, allowing both parties to gain applied experiences and build their portfolio. TFP’s can be easily secured through reaching out to photographers on Instagram or checking out institutions with photography programs where students are likely to work with you on a TFP.
The second option available is paid shoots. There are plenty of photographers in the city who will charge a set fee for a shoot with them. In these paid shoots, you can ask to be photographed in multiple outfits and they oftentimes will edit the pictures after for you as well. This can be a great alternative if you want more creative direction and freedom in the photoshoot.
Start looking for agencies
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Once you have a solid portfolio built up, you can start applying to modelling agencies in your respected city. An agency will help you book jobs and further mould your portfolio to the best of its potential. They have the ability to place you overseas as they see fit and represent you for future opportunities. Agencies will also give you advice about the industry and be honest with you on where your career is likely to thrive.
It is worth noting that whilst agencies will try their hardest to book you jobs, it is entirely up to the client on whether you get selected. This means that even with an agency jobs are never guaranteed, something representative of the industry at large.
Being a model can be a fulfilling and fun career but like most creative industries, it is competitive and requires a lot of dedication. Building a tough skin and being willing to consistently work on your portfolio is necessary to ensure a successful career in the modelling industry. Most importantly, having fun and enjoying your work reflects positively on camera.