Expert: Felicity Gain - 2/17/2009

Question
Hi! I'm Wila, I'm 17 years old and I want to pursue a career in acting/modeling. There's 2 places I want to go and pursue my dreams, that is Japan and USA. I want to know what is the requirement to start in acting and modeling career. And I also want your point of view on whether where I should move to pursue my dreams, I really want to go to Japan because I love their fashion and their industry in general, but should I really move there or stay in USA? I know that where ever I move to, I'll be happy in my decision in the end, but can you please tell me the difference between Japanese acting and modeling industry and America's entertainment industry and which ever ones I should go for. Please and thank you!

Answer
Hi Wila,

I can only help you with the modelling aspect of your question as I have no experience in the acting industry.

First of all, 17 is a great age to start modelling as you have the life skills to face the daily rejection you will receive and to sense if someone is on the level. I was around 17 when I first moved to London (UK) to model.

The requirements for modelling depend on what type you are suitable for. There are two main categories; editorial and commercial. For editorial, you have to have a unique look and generally have to be between 5'8 and 5'10 in height for the USA and between UK size 6-8, Euro 34-36. Whereas the Japanesse market look for around 5'6- 5'8 (above 5'8 only for catwalk shows) height and no bigger than a UK 8, Euro 36 dress size. Furthermore, the Japaneese love pale complexions and no moles, beauty spots or freckles. They also tend to prefer brunettes over blondes.

Commercial models have a more girl next door Miami v NYC look. In the USA you can be between 5'6- 5'10 and UK dress size 8-12, Euro 36-40. Again, the Japanese market tends to prefer shorter and thinner models,which makes sense since the people tend to be shorter and finer boned in Japan than the west and modelling is about creating an image to aspire to without being too out of the realms of possibility.

You could try and get an agent in Japan before going there and work out what the realities re opportunities are there v the States. If you find a good fit then go for it. I always believe in getting out of your comfort zone. You can always go back home to the USA if it doesn't work, but at least you tried. I always find that you regret the things you don't do rather than the things you fail at.

Whatever you do, go for it and enjoy the ride!

Felicity

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