Expert: Kitty Kavey - 1/25/2007

Question
Hi, I am 35 yrs old and live in Chicago. I have always wanted to be a model but never tried to become one because I was severly overweight. I have since lost a lot of weight and wanted to know if I have a chance at commercial modeling at my age? Can you please give me your honest opinion on this. And if I do have a chance, what do I need to do to get started? Thanks :)

Answer
There are no age restrictions with commercial print modeling (other than what an individual agency might set) or size requirements, but you do have to be photogenic.
Much of the time an agency will ask for a modeling composite card for consideration, although they will sometimes will accept a couple photos instead.  You can certainly inquire as to their submission process, and what you'll need.  
If they do ask for a modeling composite card you would, of course, need to get that done before sending in your information or making an appointment with them.  There are many varieties on comp cards - not necessarily in size but in composition.  Generally, you'd have a two sided color composite card with your name and a face shot on the front, and anywhere from 2-6 photos on the back that show your range of looks, along with your stats (height, measurements, eye color, hair color, shoe/dress size).
You can type in "modeling composite cards" in your favorite search engine and find many examples to look at, as well as price ranges.
Best of luck to you,
~Kitty