“How to start a career in modelling?” That’s what you want to learn, right?
You’re so serious about starting a career in modelling that you dream about being a professional model almost every day.
How do I know?
Hah! Are you kidding me? Didn’t you know I could read minds? What, you really didn’t?
Well, now you do.
What was that again? You say you don’t believe me. Okay, how about me describing your dream from last Tuesday (thanks to my magical powers)?
Ready?
It went like this:
Your arms were wrapped around her sleek waist, her giggles were tinkering bells in your ears, and the touch of her silky smooth skin rubbing against yours—oh, man, that was something, wasn’t it? And of course, the camera, the lights, and the celebrity status, and what happened between you and her, once the shoot was over.
I saw everything, you know. 😉
See, I wasn’t lying. So, do you believe me now?
Good.
Now, I can bet on my life that you’re dying to make that dream real, aren’t you? And to be honest, you have all the reasons to believe that a career in modelling is your true calling.
For instance:
Girls giggle and say “Hi” to you as soon as they enter the classroom. Boys your age are jealous of your looks (you could see it in their eyes). And often, your friends comment, “Dude, why don’t you try making a career in modelling?”
Isn’t that encouraging?
But wait. Not so fast.
Before you begin your journey to find out how to start a modelling career, here’s a myth-busting checklist for you to help you decide…
- If modelling is the right career option for you
- Can you really get into modelling, and
- Are you willing to pay what it takes to become a model
Let’s jump right in.
#How to Start a Career in Modelling Myth 1:
Becoming a Model is Easy
Now, here’s the thing:
Most people think that starting a career in modeling is an easy way to earn a lot of cash. In fact, they assume that a model doesn’t need to do much.
This is (sort of) what most people imagine about modelling:
A model just stands in front of a camera wearing branded clothing while a steaming hot girl hugs him from behind. And then the camera person clicks some pictures. Then, he gets a LOT of money. And then, he goes home, with a big smile on his face.
Well, not exactly.
Look: A modelling career is indeed glamorous, but that “glamour” comes at a price.
Hard work.
How do I know? Because I’ve been there.
You see, I worked in a modular kitchen TV commercial back in 2009. The call time was 9 am, and I was on time, but the female model wasn’t. And guess what? I had to wait for her for more than 5 hours. I mean, can you believe it?
And guess what? The cameras didn’t start rolling until about 4 pm and stopped only after 11:30 at night.
And the worst part?
No breakfast. No lunch. Just a burger and a glass of soft drink.
Bloody hell! You call that easy, huh?
So, yeah, if you’re willing to put in some serious work to become a model, then go for it. But if you’re thinking of earning some “extra cash” while also having some “fun” along the way, then think again, my friend, think again.
Oh, so now you are mad at me? Because I shattered your sweet dreams?
Well, I am OK with that.
Because you see, I am not going to lie to you. I am here to give you the cold, hard truth (even if it hurts) of what I learned during my short-lived modelling career. In fact, it was so goddamn short that I am not even sure if I could call it a “career.”
Anyway.
So, what kind of hard work?
Well, we’re talking about:
- Working out regularly in a gym to achieve and maintain an attractive physique.
- Polishing your communication skills, especially spoken English.
- Grooming yourself (table manners, general etiquette, and things like that).
And guess what? You need money for all that. Yep, you need the dough while still trying to become a model, homie.
The question is: Do you have it?
If not, then what are your plans? How would you get it?
Can you persuade your parents? If they’re not in a position, or they’re not willing, then? Well, then obviously, you will need to figure that out. Oh, well, maybe I could give you some ideas:
- Can you move to a cheaper hostel to save some money?
- Would you start giving tuition to junior students?
- How about working part-time in an office?
- Have you ever considered designing websites as a freelancer?
- Can you give up the cinema visits and “Chhoti gold flakes” (at least for now?)
The essence is, what would you do to get the money?
Think about it. It’s really important.
#How to Start a Career in Modelling Myth 2:
You Can Become a Model Even With a Fat Tummy
Well, you certainly can…
But only if you’re planning to land the role of “Uncle Ji” in a B-grade TV serial or a pathetic porn movie.
But is that what you want? No. I don’t think so.
Actually, if you’re serious about becoming a model, then you must take care of your health and how you look.
(Nowadays, people call it “an appealing physique.”)
How?
By eating healthy. And working out.
Nothing fancy. Just good old common sense.
Eating Healthy
Now, it goes without saying, (but let’s say it anyway), that you need to focus on healthy foods like:
Whole grains: Dalia, oats, Muesli, etc.
Fruits: All types of seasonal fruits.
Vegetables: Green-leafy ones and many other kinds of seasonal vegetables (even if they give you the Yuck! feeling).
Nuts: Almonds, raisins, cashews, walnuts, blueberries, and cranberries. etc., etc.
And water.
Smoking. Alcohol. Drugs?
Are you out of your fucking mind?
And junk food?
Well, maybe once in a while (read: once or twice a month or maybe never).
Working Out
Working out is a must for a model. Even for a would-be model. No questions about it.
Now here’s the thing:
Maybe you’re used to late-night parties, or maybe you’re into watching action movies up till late at night. Or perhaps you just can’t sleep early. Or maybe, whatever.
Well, guess what? Since you need to develop a healthier lifestyle, it’s about to change.
And who will change that?
You—the aspiring model. Who else?
#How to Start a Career in Modelling Myth 3:
You Need to Be Fluent in English
Well, not necessarily, but yeah, it helps.
You see, modelling is just like any other career—accounting, hotel management, engineering, blah, blah, blah. And it sure helps if you could talk in English. Of course, not some high-fi accented or stylish English. But yes, simple, everyday English would do just fine.
But, here’s the bad news…
You see, English is rarely a challenge for convent-educated people. But for the rest of us mortals, spoken English can be a bitch (I often wonder why it’s always a bitch and not a dog, though). 🙄
Whatever.
So, the question is, what would you do to improve your spoken English? Hmm?
- Would you join a spoken English institute?
- Could you think of some ways to participate in your college group discussions and debates?
- Or would you prefer practicing on your own with the help of self-study courses like fluentzy?
You decide. But do it fast.
#How to Start a Career in Modelling Myth 4:
A Modelling Career Can Make You Rich Overnight
Well, not exactly.
But, yes, it can make you rich in the long term if you know how to market yourself.
And, even if you’re not good at self-promotion, there’s no need to lose your sleep over it. You see, you can learn anything if you’re willing to put in the work. Just don’t expect to get rich overnight. Because you see…
Modelling is a career, not a magical fairy tale where you can do anything with just a stroke of a magic wand.
Are you with me?
Actually, in modelling, you need to work your ass off, and even then, there’s no guarantee that you’d be able to make it big. Now, I am not saying that you can’t. What I am only saying is that there are no guarantees.
And wait. There’s something more.
You see, at the beginning of your modelling career, you may have to work for free. And then, later on, when you become a known face in the market, you may start charging for your services. And if everything goes as per the plan, you’ll be on your way to becoming a highly paid model, or maybe even the highest-paid one.
I mean, who knows?
#How to Start a Career in Modelling Myth 5:
Modelling is a Long-Term Career
It’s not.
Let me tell you: It’s true that a modelling career is full of opportunities, but it’s not what you’d call a ‘long-term career.’
So before you get serious about becoming a model, you need to figure out what you will do once it’s over. Yes, that’s the million-dollar question. What will you do?
So, what can you do?
Well, I can think of only one thing right now.
You can get into TV serials and eventually into movies (that’s an option for sure).
But again, you need to put in the work. You’ll need to work on your acting skills while still trying to make it in the modelling industry.
Is that the only option? Obviously not. You can find out more as you go along. Cool?
So, that was your modelling career checklist. And now, let’s jump right on to my story about becoming a model.
I Wanted to Make a Career in Modelling
This is My Story (And the Lessons I Learned)
Listen: I faced the camera for the first time in 1997 for a telefilm audition. And guess what? The film never went on the floor.
You see, I was a fresh graduate from Delhi University, and I wanted to make a career in modelling. But had no idea how or where to start.
And so, well, you know, I tried whatever came my way and suffered. Miserably.
It was only after a couple of thousand rupees into the drain along with a couple of years of my life that I realized I was screwed.
Do you know why?
Because the folks I was hanging out with were smartasses: people who make money exploiting aspiring models like me—teenagers who have big dreams but no real-life experience whatsoever. Here’s one example of my naivety:
I spent 5 thousand rupees on my portfolio (a collection of photos).
And you know what? I was elated, but only until I found out that the photographer had duped me. You see, the so-called portfolio he gave me was nothing but a couple of shitty photos compiled in an even shittier plastic album.
Shit! Shit! Oh Shit!
And the worst part?
I borrowed that money. From a relative.
Damn!
I lost the money. And also two precious years of my life.
But, but, but.
I was no quitter. No, sir. And so…
I faced the camera again in 2006 as a health and lifestyle channel TV anchor. And then, later, in 2009, I shot 13 episodes of a low-budget sex-problems TV show. You know, the kind of lousy TV shows in which the “experts” answer the audience’s questions?
And, to be honest, I am not proud of it. Not even a bit. It was bad. Real bad.
And then later, in 2010, I also shot a TV commercial and a Hindi documentary.
So you see, I am not bragging or somethin’. But, I have some “hands-on experience” in the modelling and TV world.
And that brings us to the question:
Am I a Model? Or a Celebrity?
Well, at present, I am a blogger and voice actor. You can listen to my voice samples here.
Anyway. Let’s come back to our quest of how to start a career in modelling.
Today I realize that I couldn’t succeed as a model because I didn’t like being a model. Not really. And to tell you the truth, my primary intention behind trying my luck in modelling was to earn some money. Yes, that was it.
“But don’t everyone who becomes a model gets into modelling to earn some booty,” you ask.
No, no, no. Wait. Let me finish.
You see, I wasn’t sure if modelling was for me, and so, I was kind of ‘testing the waters.’ Checking if it was the right career for me. And you, my friend, must not commit the same mistake. Don’t try to become a model for the sake of money.
Listen: Money is indeed a thing. It sure is. But let me warn you: Money shouldn’t be the primary motivation behind choosing a career path because if it is, your career won’t last long. And even if it does, you shall suffer all your life.
You see, my point is clear: Choose a career only if you like it. In fact, choose a career only if you’re crazy about it. Because if you are, your progress will skyrocket in no time.
Now, don’t get me wrong. I am not trying to scare you. In fact, I want you to succeed as a model. I really do. Swear to god! And that’s why I want you to stay clear of the mistakes I committed.
And what were they?
Well, here we go.
1. Believing Everything You Hear
Look: Media is a diverse field with many career opportunities.
Even if you cannot make your career in modelling and become a professional model, you can try getting into a related field.
Let me give you an example.
Did you know that you could also become a ‘model coordinator?’
“What’s that?” you ask.
Well, a model coordinator helps a model get new assignments. Sorts of an “agent.” These people work behind the screen and help their clients grow professionally, and of course, they charge for it.
Or you may try your luck in the field of voiceovers if you like speaking and acting in front of a microphone.
My point is:
When somebody suggests you should try your luck in modelling, by all means, think about it. But don’t close your eyes to other options (in the same or similar fields).
2. Never Cross-Checking
Now, let me tell you: ‘Trust’ is a good thing. And you should learn to trust yourself and others. But, at the same time, there’s no need to trust everyone you come across during your modelling quest.
Why do I say that? Well, because there might be some people who, despite their good intentions, won’t be able to help you. And you, by depending on them, are more likely to hurt yourself in the foot.
Actually, something of that sort happened to me:
During my ‘how to become a model’ journey, I met a guy who was a lookalike of an actor. And he really was a genuine person, but unfortunately, he wasn’t smart enough for a field like modelling.
He assured me that he could help me to become a model. And he did try. But his “help” was more of a burden: I would spend a lot of time helping his elder brother at their shop (all the while waiting for my break, which never came).
Between, one more thing happened:
You see, a portfolio is the most important thing for any aspiring model. It’s a collection of photographs to demonstrate how good or bad you’ll look on screen. And that guy arranged for a photographer to shoot my portfolio (and I am thankful to him for that).
In fact, I was elated when I received the portfolio. What I didn’t realize at the time was that it was no good until I approached a modelling agency for work.
The model coordinator looked at the photographs and gave me a weird look. And then, she handed me over some of the portfolios she had in her drawer.
Oh my gosh!
Those portfolios were really something. Awesome quality. And mine? Nah! It was nothing compared to them.
So, the lesson here is:
Make sure to take the help of only those who know what they are doing.
Always cross-check. Take a second, third, or even fourth opinion, if you had to.
3. Clinging to False Hope
Guess what?
This one tops the previous two.
You see, despite my initial failures, I believed it was just a matter of time, and if I put in just a bit more effort and waited for some more days, I would become a successful model.
Big mistake.
Don’t let that happen to you.
You know, a positive mental attitude is a great thing, for certain. But there’s a thin line between being positive and naive, and you should know the difference between the two. Because every single day you pass clinging to false hope is a day wasted. It’s the time of your life that you can never get back. Ever.
Stay alert.
There’s no shame in quitting. If you realize that modelling is not for you, so be it. Don’t wait. Just quit. And then, choose a career path that’ll actually work for you.
Learn How to Start a Modelling Career (And What You Need to Become a Model)
Physique
Facial Features
Tell me:
Do you have a pointed nose? Fuller lips? Or maybe you get dimples on your cheek when you laugh, huh?
These are your facial features that are (almost) set in stone. In other words, you cannot change them.
But some people disagree.
For example, some celebrity magazines claim that a few movie stars have changed or improved their facial features with the help of cosmetic surgery.
Well, that’s kind of true. But the fact is that not everyone has access to such insanely expensive methods to change/upgrade/refine their facial features. But, it is an option if you have the booty.
Complexion
How fair are you?
I mean, how fair is your complexion?
Listen: complexion is an individual characteristic that can hardly be manipulated. But yes, you can get a bit fairer than you currently are. And guess what? Certain creams seem to be helpful with that. For example:
(But hey, check with your doctor first. You know, just to be sure. Also, remember: becoming a model has nothing to do with skin color. You can be white, black, beige, or whatever. It doesn’t matter, really.)
Panchvati Cream
This is a good one. It really works.
(The bottle says it’s Ayurvedic. So, I guess there are no side effects.)
If you decide to try it, here’s how you can use it:
First, wash your face and pat dry. Then, take a little cream (almost equal to a wheat grain) and massage it on your face in a circular motion for, let’s say, 30 seconds.
You may feel a little warmth and may also notice drops of sweat on your skin. Nothing to worry about, though. It’s pretty normal. And, if you keep doing it for at least 21 days, you’ll notice a pleasing glow on your face.
Betnovate – C
Betnovate – C is a wonderful cream to remove dead skin from your face. In fact, within days of usage, you can see the dead cells coming off of your skin, literally.
But let me warn you: this one is a little tricky. It’s supposed to be applied at night only because going out in the sun after applying it may damage your skin.
So, don’t take the risk.
Betnovate – N
Now, this one you can use regularly. It’s said to lighten/remove the under-eye dark circles and black spots.
Neem
Now, here’s the thing:
When it comes to purifying the blood, nothing comes even closer. Neem is the best there is.
I knew that, and so I decided to experiment with it during one of my summer vacations.
Now listen. I had no intention of getting fairer skin when I started the experiment. Actually, there was some other reason. Now, you may laugh at me once I told you what, but here you go anyway:
You see, mosquitoes are in love with me. And, I hate them.
My eldest grandmother would boast about her immunity to mosquito bites. “Mosquitoes bite you because your blood is sweet. But they don’t bite me because my blood is bitter. Do you know why? I used to eat 4–5 Neem leaves every day when I was your age.” She often teased me.
And did I believe her?
No.
But then, one day, I thought, “Oh, what the hell? What do I have to lose, anyway, If I did the same?” And so, I decided to give the Neem a chance to prove itself to me. With just a tiny teeny bit of modification.
Instead of eating the leaves, I decided to drink their juice.
And so it began.
I would crush the Neem leaves with a stone grinder, pour some water, crush them a little more, then remove the crushed leaves and gulp the juice down.
Yuck! It was disgusting as hell. But I continued the ritual for about 20 more days.
And something unexpected happened.
To be honest with you, I didn’t notice any improvement in mosquito bites whatsoever. But yes, my blood got purified, and as a result, my complexion got fairer. So, here’s how you can do it too.
Neem Juice Formula
Go to a park or a roadside area, and pick some fresh Neem leaves. Wash the leaves thoroughly. Now, put them in a grinder, add a bit of water, and push the button.
Halt.
Add some more water—around 200-300ml—and then run the grinder for one more minute. Now, separate the water from the mixture.
And there you have it—the super magical Neem juice.
(Just don’t ask how it smells.)
Now, close your eyes, and imagine the sweetest dish you’ve ever had. And then, gulp the juice down. Make sure to eat some sugar to counter the bitterness.
Do this for at least 21 days, and you’re sure to notice the difference.
An Alternative
Plucking the leaves, washing them, and grinding them every day for 21 days straight can be a pain in the neck. So, here’s an alternative: Neem powder.
For this, get a good amount of Neem leaves. Wash, and rinse. Now, spread the leaves on a cotton cloth or a bedsheet and let them dry in the shade. For about three days in summer and about eight days in winter.
When you are sure that the leaves have dried up, grind them, and make a fine powder. Now, transfer the powder to a glass jar and keep it in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Take 1-2 teaspoons of this powder once daily with water. This powder will not only help you get fairer skin but also heal many other skin issues.
It’s really effective.
So, that’s that. And now, let’s talk about another feature—’Height.’
Height
Listen: A doctor in the old Delhi area claims his medicine can help gain a little more height even after 35. And if I remember correctly, it’s called ‘Herbo Height Therapy.’
Google it.
If you think it’s worth your money, you may try it. But, remember that there can be no guarantees, simply because not everything works for everybody.
With that out of our way, it’s time to talk about exercising (working out).
Exercise
Now, there are two main types of exercises:
Aerobic and Anaerobic.
What is the difference?
Aerobic exercises help keep the body fit and healthy, but they cannot help you gain muscles. For that, you need to consider anaerobic exercises or “weight training,” commonly known as bodybuilding.
Aerobic Exercises (For fat loss)
Jogging.
Running.
Walking/Running on a treadmill.
Climbing the stairs.
Rope skipping.
And a lot more.
Anaerobic Exercises: (for muscle building)
Look: Bodybuilding is a vast subject.
And rightly so.
There are many exercises to develop the chest, shoulders, upper back, lower back, abdominals, biceps, triceps, forearms, and other body parts.
So, what to do? How to start?
Well, familiarise yourself with bodybuilding in general before you start. Read online articles. Search your local library for helpful resources. Oh, and let me also give you the name of a reputed website. It’s called BodyBuilding.com. This website is an excellent resource for fitness enthusiasts. You’ll find many articles on diet, exercise, and supplementation.
Now, here’s an overview of the exercises for developing a muscular physique.
Chest
- Bench Presses
- Dumbbell Presses
- Dumbbell Flys
Back
- Pull-ups
- Lat machine
- Bent-over rowing
- Seated rowing
Shoulders
- Military Presses
- Arnold Presses
- Lateral Raises
- Behind the Neck Presses
Abdominals (Abs)
- Sit-ups
- Crunches
- Leg Raises
- Planks
Biceps
- Barbell curls
- Dumbbell curls
- Preacher curls
- Concentration curls
- Hammer curls
Triceps
- Pulley push-downs
- Skull crushers
- Close-grip bench presses
And now, it’s time to talk about something controversial. Let’s discuss this…
Modelling, Bodybuilding & Fitness, and Steroids
Steroids invoke fear, confusion, and confidence at the same time.
So, what exactly are they?
Well, I am no expert, but I will try my best to explain.
Steroids (sometimes called anabolics or anabolic steroids) are synthetic compounds (produced in laboratories) similar to the human body’s natural substances. And many people claim you can achieve a muscular physique with steroids, which would be impossible otherwise.
The rumor has it that most fitness models and pro-bodybuilders use steroids to gain muscle mass and increase strength. There are many different forms of steroids, but let’s talk about ‘synthetic testosterone’ for basic understanding. And to understand that, let’s first talk about natural testosterone and what it does.
Natural Testosterone
Testosterone (or natural testosterone) is a male hormone produced naturally by the body. This hormone is responsible for maintaining muscle mass and sex drive. As a matter of fact, in youth, the body produces sufficient testosterone in healthy male adults. But in later years, testosterone production decreases, and men lose muscle mass and start gaining fat.
Synthetic Testosterone
Synthetic testosterone is similar to its natural counterpart, except that it’s produced in a laboratory. And just so you know, doctors use it to cure low testosterone levels to prevent premature aging-related conditions.
Now, there’s also something called…
Steroid Abuse
What is it exactly?
Well, when a healthy young adult (whose body is already producing optimal testosterone) uses a synthetic steroid to boost his testosterone levels, he is ‘abusing’ steroids. And abuse can create havoc in your body if you don’t know what you’re dealing with.
Now, can I be honest with you for a moment?
Come closer. I want to tell you a secret.
Listen: I had tried some of the stuff myself back in 2001. You see, I was skinny at the time and wanted to gain some weight. And luckily, one of my past friends had a basic knowledge of steroids. I asked him, and he explained that steroids were not magical, as some people would like you to believe. Because they don’t work all by themselves, in fact, one must follow a healthy diet to reap its benefits.
Well, guess what? I tried a single dose, but it was kind of expensive for me, so I had to discontinue. I was in between jobs and could hardly eat two meals a day; forget about eating a healthy and nutritious diet (which is a must if you’re using the juice). Later, I tried them again after several years. But even at that time, I under-dosed because I didn’t want to get into an uncomfortable situation.
Did I notice some improvement?
You bet I did.
I was working out in a gym, and my diet was also a lot cleaner. But then, I discontinued. Because you see, it was more like testing the waters rather than being enslaved to something I did not yet fully understand.
So, that was pretty much it.
Now, the question is:
Are You Planning to Use Anabolics?
Well, you’re a free bird. Who am I to stop you?
Just be careful. Educate yourself first and get a basic understanding so you know what you’re dealing with. You see, a lack of proper information and education can cause you severe harm. In fact, many experienced steroid users warn that a 20-year-old boy has no business mingling with anabolics. And if he does abuse steroids, the side effects can be devastating.
So, the essence is this:
You cannot blame anyone but yourself if things go south because it’s your responsibility (and yours alone) to take care of your health. So, take your time and decide if you’re willing to take the risk.
Because the risk is always there.
With that out of the way, it’s time to talk about the crucial thing for maintaining a healthy body. And it is…
Sleep
Look, I don’t know about you, but I’d pick sleep if I had to choose between sleep and food.
“And why is that?” You ask.
Well, you can get away without eating dinner. But you cannot get away without a good night’s sleep, can you?
You know, people in earlier times had no difficulty sleeping because life was slow-paced and less demanding.
But times have changed.
Now we live an overstimulated life. And one of the major reasons for sleep deprivation is the overuse of electronic devices—mobile phones, tablets, TVs, etc. I mean, look at the people around you—the majority of them are busy checking WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and whatnot, even when they walk on the roads.
Listen: Social media, mobile phones, TVs—all that stuff was invented to stay connected. But an unfortunate thing happened. We went overboard, and as a result, our minds stayed preoccupied most of the time. Not getting the rest they deserve.
And not only that, we’ve become habituated to doing everything in a ‘jerky,’ fast-paced manner. We don’t usually take the time to let things happen. We just do them, anyway.
Let me ask you this: Has there ever been a day when the sun was in the sky, and suddenly it went down the very next minute?
No. It doesn’t work like that, right? The day turning into the night is a delicate process: The sun sets down by and then, and the darkness crawls in gently.
What’s my point?
Well, the point is, that the human body is also supposed to prepare itself gently, just like nature. And it can. But it needs some work on your part.
You see, in today’s fast-paced life, you often find yourself watching TV, playing video games, or working on your laptop till late at night. And then, suddenly, you look at your watch, and you’re like, “Shit! It’s 11:30 already (yawn…). I should get some sleep now.” And then you go straight to bed.
Not good.
You know what? You just gave your body and mind a ‘jerk’ instead of a transition. And as a result, you’ll not be able to experience deep sleep. But all is not lost. You can learn to master the transition. To move from the awakened state to the sleepy one.
Here’s how:
Letting the Transition Happen
Here’s the thing:
Watching the screen till late at night is a not-so-good idea.
Staring at a screen (TV, tablet, laptop, or mobile) tricks your brain into thinking that it’s still daytime, which forces your body to stay awake. So, turning off your TV, laptop, or any other electronic gadget at least 45 minutes before sleep time can really make a difference in your sleep quality.
Here are some more steps you can take to prepare yourself for a good night’s sleep.
Use a Camphor Dispenser
You know what a camphor dispenser is, don’t you?
It’s a cute little thing used for burning camphor. All you have to do is this:
Put some camphor in the dispenser, and then turn it on. Next, turn off all the room lights and enjoy an otherworldly aroma.
Wash Your Legs and Face
Did you know that washing your legs up to the knees can have a calming effect on the mind?
Here’s a little trick to comfort your tired legs:
Take some warm water in a bucket or tub, add some salt to it, and then soak your legs in it. Keep them down for some time. Believe me; you’ll feel much better.
Also, washing your face can give you a fresh feeling.
Play Relaxing Music
Music.
It’s one of the best things you can use for a good night’s sleep. Listening to soft, relaxing music helps your mind slow down and prepare it for sleep.
(And, if you like listening to rain sounds to get a night of deep sleep, here’s a video from my YouTube channel):
Gaze at the Moon
Funny? I know, but it works like a charm to calm the mind. You should try it sometime.
Drink Warm Milk
If you like milk, this one is for you.
Drink a cup of warm milk for 30 to 45 minutes before going to bed. It may help you get a deep sleep.
Communication Skills
Here’s the thing:
Anybody serious about making a successful career in any field needs to have good communication skills. And you know what? Modelling is no different. If you’re serious about starting a career in modelling and becoming a successful model, you must work on your communication skills.
But, let’s get this straight. Communication skills do not mean spoken English. Of course, work on your spoken English, but don’t confuse good communication skills with good spoken English skills. Remember: Good communication skills mean you can express yourself with clarity, and that’s pretty much it.
Respect Your Mother Tongue
Now listen: I know many young people don’t speak their mother tongue (especially those from rural areas) because they fear being labeled “uncivilized.”
Are you also one of them? Do you also feel ashamed of your mother tongue?
Well, here’s my take:
If you want to succeed in modelling, or any field, for that matter, there’s one thing you must never, ever do. And that is, my friend:
Never be ashamed of who you are.
You see, your mother tongue is the basis of your communication skills. And I don’t see a point in learning English or any so-called civilized language while disrespecting your mother tongue. In fact, if you look a bit deeper, it’s not just a question of language. In reality, it’s the difference between feeling good in your skin and looking like a lunatic wearing someone else’s oversized clothing.
No matter how good the clothing, you’ll still look like a dumbo. So, do me a favor: Respect your mother tongue. And take pride in who you are.
Now, don’t get me wrong. I am not saying that you should speak in your local dialect everywhere you go. No. That’s not the point.
Speak politely and respectfully, no matter the language.
Wardrobe
Can you guess the worst mistake one can make while trying to become a model?
This: Follow dated fashion rules, and wear clothing that looks like it was meant for some other era.
Think about it for a moment.
Are you guilty of the crime? If so, it’s time to upgrade your wardrobe.
Try something modern.
But, remember that modern does not necessarily mean “Western.”
Etiquette
Have you ever had the chance to eat alongside somebody who eats with his mouth open and makes disgusting sounds?
Well, I once had. And believe me, unbearable would be an understatement.
Arggh! I can still hear him inside my head. Now, hold on for a second, and think:
Do you also make such sounds while eating (the chop-chop sound being the most common)?
Or, do you pick your nose while talking to somebody? Eeew! (Some people do.)
Or maybe munching on biscuits is your favorite pastime, even while you’re speaking to somebody over the phone. Or maybe you’re guilty of shoving in and pushing people while using an elevator or metro train?
You do? Well, you need to do some serious unlearning, my friend.
Remember, etiquette does matter.
Learn to Be Selfish. It’s Crucial if You’re Serious About Starting a Career in Modelling
Selfishness?
What does selfishness have to do with modelling? 🙄
A lot, actually. And I am saying it with full awareness. In fact, I would love you to be not just selfish but also wicked (sort of), and I’ll tell you why.
You see, the modelling industry is a highly competitive field. And believe it or not, people can go to any, and I mean any extent, to grab a modelling assignment (even if they had to backstab the very person who helped them become a model in the first place).
Shocking?
Well, it is what it is.
Such people will make friends with you (not because they like you), but because they’re after the information, you may have about the next big, highly-paying modelling assignment.
And the worst part? You won’t even suspect a thing. And then, one fine morning, you’ll wake up to find out that the project you had pitched for is gone.
To somebody else.
Who?
Your “best friend.”
Look, if you can’t stand being selfish and wicked (not even a bit), then you should probably think of something else.
Pay Extra Attention to Your Portfolio
A portfolio is by far the most important thing for an aspiring model.
In simplest words, a portfolio is a collection of professionally clicked photographs. And it’s important because these very photos will demonstrate how you would appear on a TV screen or in a magazine.
How much time does it take? Well, it depends. Getting a 30-to-40-picture portfolio may take around 2 to 3 days. It all comes down to how many costumes (clothes) you change during the photoshoot.
Now, a portfolio can cost you anything (depending on the photographer you choose). And you know what? Selecting a professional photographer can be a challenge when you’re a beginner. So, what to do?
Well, ask around:
Post a query in online forums.
Read online articles.
And if possible, ask for advice from established models.
Also, beware of low-profile photographers and their agents.
Oh, and don’t hire your neighborhood photo studio. I would rather say fuggedaboutit! It won’t cut it.
(Listen: Indeed, the rates of a professional photographer and a low-profile one will not match. Obviously, the amateurish type will have lower prices. But even if you get a portfolio for cheap, you most probably will not lend any assignment whatsoever).
And, always have your pictures ready in digital as well as physical format.
Modelling Portfolio Ready? Time to Find Some Work
Here’s how:
Google “modelling agencies in (your city).” You’re likely to get quite a few results.
Now, sort through the results one by one and shortlist the ones that seem legit. Once you’re done with the shortlisting, research about them, and read reviews. Find out what others have to say about their services.
Also, it’s a good idea to get in touch with some models who worked for them (or still working). Doing so can give you a pretty accurate idea about the agency’s credibility and professionalism. And once you have a rough idea about the agency in question, approach them via phone or email and ask for more details.
Now, here’s a catch.
Some agencies might ask for a ‘registration fee.’
That’s a tricky situation, my friend. You see, many fake modelling agencies and so-called agents guarantee overnight success if you just pay them. If I were you, I wouldn’t pay them a dime, no matter how reputed they claimed to be.
The golden rule? Avoid paying money to anyone.
Actually, there’s one more scenario you should be aware of:
Some agencies might ask for a share of the money you’ll be receiving for the assignment. Now, if you feel like it, say yes. But still, remember this:
You should pay the agency their share after you’ve received the fee from the client, not before.
Get a Website (or at least a Facebook Page)
Now, this is crucial.
If you’re serious about becoming a model, you must be visible online.
In fact, you must have a single-page website (sometimes called an online portfolio) or a Facebook page, at the very least. The website can serve as an online resume. You can post some of your best photos, along with a brief intro and contact details.
Now, here’s something important.
If you can afford it, aim to get a private domain in your name. But if you don’t want to spend money on a website at this stage, that’s fine too. You can build a website free of cost on WordPress.com.
Now, you must be wondering…
What’s the Difference?
Let me help you understand it.
You’re reading this article on AvdheshTondak.com.
‘AvdheshTondak.com’ is the domain name of my website, which is a private domain. I have purchased it, and I pay every year to keep this domain active (along with hosting services and other necessary stuff).
O.K., now, had I wished to create a free website, I could have searched for the domain ‘AvdheshTondak’ on WordPress.com. And if the domain was available, I could’ve created a website on WordPress.com.
The difference would be in the web address of the two websites.
Here’s what I mean.
The website with a private domain shall be ‘https://AvdheshTondak.com,’ and on the other hand, the site with the domain on WordPress.com shall be ‘https://AvdheshTondak.wordpress.com.’
Essentially, by creating a free website on WordPress.com, you’re building a site on a sub-domain. In our case, ‘AvdheshTondak’ shall be a sub-domain of the primary domain WordPress.com.
Clear enough?
Yes, You Can Start a Career in Modelling
So, there you go. I have shared with you the mistakes I made while trying to make a modelling career for myself. And I am sure you shall be able to avoid making the same mistakes now that you know about them.
I hope this guide has made certain things clearer to you about how to start a career in modelling.
Now, in the end, I have only one question for you. Just one:
Will you give me an autograph, please?
All the best! 🙂