Expert: Peter Messaline - 6/23/2007

Question
Hi my name is Terra and I live in Columbus, Georgia, which is only one hour from Atlanta, Georgia. I am interested in commercial/Print modeling-I am a size 16--so I am plus sized, but I am only 5'6--I have little experience with modeling. I have had a few shots taken professionally, but I mainly at the present time have only photo taken by a family member. I am trying to get pointed in the right direction as to how do I go by trying to find an agent to represent me. I need advice also on how to get me a good portfolio started. I have been reading up on this alot--I really want to pursue this because I know in the plus size model industry I would not make it because of my height, but I know lifestyle model(commercial/print) is different. Do you have any advice on how i can get on the right track.

Answer
Congratulations on having done your own research, and for not having fallen into the scam agents' trap of assuring you that your non-standard size will not be a problem.

If you are still a minor, are your parents in on this effort. Being a model is like any other career -- it requires careful research, which you've started, and it needs your parents' support.

I am not in the model business, but I was for years involved with the Acting and Modelling Information Service here in Canada, so I have been briefed by experts.

The reality is twofold against you.

First, most lifestyle modelling is in fact done by current or recently active models. The agency and the clients know  them, they are camera-savvy, and they fit the clothes. Any agency is looking for models who can be put up for as many jobs as possible, so they are unlikely to choose a model who has all the charm and oomph and intelligence, but can only be used for a small range of jobs.

Next, there are plenty of women in your proportions, but clothes are designed on a very small range of sizes. In those sizes, the design looks its best, when it's sold in other sizes, it looks ok.

Closer to home, look at this plus models page from the EliteAtlanta agency:
www.eliteatlanta.com/tres1.cfm?agency_id=315