Expert: Kitty Kavey - 2/6/2008

Question
Hi there, i wonder if you can help.

I am a 16 year old male, living in the uk, looking to do some modelling for some extra cash.  I've been told by a few people that i would be good for it, but I'm not so sure.

I'm not particularly confident of my looks.

I am about 5'9 and weigh 150 pounds.  I would want to know what i would need to put in a good folio, and exactly what agencies are looking for.

Many thanks, Conor.

Answer
For the UK, there are a couple resources you could look into.  
The Association of Model Agents (AMA) says that average dimensions for a male fashion model are a height of 5'11-6'2 and a weight of 140-165 lbs.
You could contact the AMA to inquire instead about commercial print/lifestyle modeling in the UK, which if it is similar to America, would not require the same height/size and age requirements as fashion modeling.  
Unfortunately I could not find a website for the AMA, but apparently their mailing address is:

Association of Model Agents
122 Brompton Road
London
SW3 1JD
(Please send a stamped addressed envelope for information.)

You can also look at agencies like Absolute Models & Actors (absolutemodels.co.uk) which purport to represent models of all types.  

Also, if you know of models similar to your look, a referral to their agency would be a great thing to ask for.

As far as I am aware, like America, a portfolio is neither required nor necessary for new models.  All legitimate fashion agencies accept snapshots, and many commercial print agencies will accept snapshots or modeling composite cards for consideration from new faces.

Ultimately, being photogenic is the most important criteria for most types of models - and that's one of the reasons why so many fashion agencies specifically ask for non-professional snapshots from new faces, rather than professional photographs.

To address the confidence issue - if it is something that is noticeable, if you appear to be uncomfortable or shy in front of the camera, it might not be a good career choice.  But if you are able to model and look the part no matter what you are selling, modeling can be a great confidence booster.  

In some ways modeling is similar to acting.  There are certainly many actors who are horribly nervous before the word "action" is called, and who regularly have to deal with self-confidence or self-worth issues.  But if you are able to overcome those feelings (at least to outward appearance) it can be quite a fun experience.

Good luck to you,
~Kitty