“How to start a career in modelling?”
That’s what you’re here for, right? I can tell. You think about it often—you dream about it. Maybe more than you’d like to admit.
And you know what? That’s okay. Because I’ve been there—well, sort of.
Let me guess… last week, or maybe the week before, you had one of those dreams. You were in front of the camera, lights all around, feeling that little buzz of excitement. There was a glamorous co-star—you know the type—laughing, moving, making everything feel real. You could almost hear the shutter clicks and feel the thrill of the shoot.
Yep. I saw it. All of it. And now, I bet you’re thinking, “Okay, maybe this career is calling me.”
And honestly? It might be. Maybe you’ve noticed it too—how people notice your looks, how classmates giggle when you enter the room, how friends say, “Hey, you should try modelling!”
Encouraging, right? It’s tempting. Really tempting.
But here’s the thing—before you leap in, take a deep breath. Modelling isn’t just about lights, cameras, or admiration. It’s about reality. Hard work, patience, and yes… sacrifices.
So, let’s start gently, with a little myth-busting checklist. Think of it as a way to peek behind the curtain and ask yourself:
- Can I handle the truth behind the glamour?
- Do I really have what it takes to start, grow, and survive in this industry?
- Am I ready to invest my time, energy, and resources to make it happen?
If the answer is “yes,” then buckle up. If not… no worries. There’s value in knowing what you’re really signing up for.
Alright, ready? Let’s jump in.
Myth 1: Is Becoming a Model Really Easy?
Ah, this one. Everyone thinks modelling is a fast track to cash and glamour. “You just stand in front of a camera, smile, maybe a pretty girl hugs you, and voilà—money!”
Ha. If only it were that simple.
Here’s the reality: a modelling career is glamorous, yes—but that glamour comes at a cost. Hard work. Patience. Time. Money.
How do I know? I’ve been there. Back in 2009, I shot a modular kitchen commercial. Call time: 9 a.m. Did I get to eat breakfast? Nope. Lunch? Forget it. The cameras didn’t start rolling until 4 p.m., and we wrapped past 11:30 at night. Five hours of waiting. One burger. One soft drink.
Easy? Not even close.
So, if you’re thinking, “I’ll have fun and make money on the side,” think again.
What does the “hard work” actually look like?
- Working out regularly to maintain a camera-ready body.
- Polishing your communication skills, yes—including spoken English, but also confidence, clarity, and presence.
- Grooming, etiquette, table manners—the basics that most people overlook.
And all of that costs money. Ask yourself:
- Do I have it?
- If not, how will I get it? Can I persuade my parents, pick up a part-time job, freelance, skip some luxuries for a while?
The real question isn’t whether modelling is easy. The real question is: what are you willing to sacrifice to make it happen?
Think about that. Really. It matters more than any viral TikTok about “easy modelling hacks.”
Myth 2: Can You Start Modelling With a Non-Perfect Body?
Well… technically, yes. But let’s be honest.
If you’re thinking you can stroll into a high-fashion shoot with a belly that jiggles more than a bowl of jelly, and land top assignments—you’re dreaming. That kind of look might get you cast as the “funny uncle” in a B-grade TV serial… or worse. And I don’t think that’s what you really want, do you?
If you’re serious about modelling, you need to care about your health, your body, and how you present yourself. These days, people don’t talk about “perfect bodies.” They talk about an appealing physique—something that looks healthy, balanced, and confident on camera.
How do you get there? Simple (but not easy):
Eat right.
- Whole grains: dalia, oats, muesli
- Fruits: seasonal, all kinds
- Vegetables: greens and others—even if you have to pinch your nose a little
- Nuts: almonds, walnuts, raisins, cranberries… go nuts (pun intended!)
- Water. Drink plenty.
Say no to…
- Smoking, alcohol, drugs—really. Just don’t.
- Junk food… maybe once or twice a month. Or never, if you can help it.
Work out.
This isn’t optional. Not for a model, not for anyone serious about their appearance and fitness.
I know… late-night parties, binge-watching action movies till 3 a.m., the eternal “I can’t sleep early” excuse—it’s all fun and games until the camera flashes, and you look… tired, soft, or out of shape.
The moment you decide: your body is your responsibility, and no one else’s, things start to change.
Who changes it? You. The aspiring model. The person who wants to show up on camera and make it count.
Myth 3: Do You Need Perfect English to Succeed in Modelling?
Ah, the great English debate.
Do you really need flawless, accent-perfect, Shakespeare-level English to succeed as a model? No. Not at all. But… yes, a little bit of English can help. Just like in accounting, engineering, or hotel management, being able to express yourself clearly opens doors.
But let’s get one thing straight: communication isn’t about English.
It’s about clarity. About saying what you mean in a way people can understand. That’s it. Period.
Now, if you happen to be a convent school graduate, this might sound easy. But for the rest of us mortals, spoken English can feel like a stubborn pet—it refuses to obey. I still wonder why it’s always a problem and never a miracle. 🙄
So what can you do about it?
- Join a spoken-English class.
- Participate in college discussions, debates, or drama activities.
- Practice on your own with apps or self-study tools.
Your choice. The point is: don’t postpone it forever. Communication is a skill, not a gift. And every day you delay is a day lost.
Remember: you don’t need to speak perfectly. You need to speak confidently, politely, and clearly. Everything else will fall into place.
Myth 4: Will Modelling Make You Rich Overnight?
Ah, the dream of instant fame and money. Who hasn’t imagined it?
Let me be brutally honest: it won’t happen. Not overnight. Not in a week. Not in a month.
Can modelling make you well-paid eventually? Sure, if you know how to market yourself and are willing to put in the work. But here’s the thing: self-promotion is a skill, and like any skill, it takes time to master.
In reality, the beginning can be rough. You might work for free. You might do shoots that pay peanuts. You might feel invisible. And yes, it can be frustrating.
Later, when you become a known face, things improve. You might get assignments that pay well. You might even start enjoying the perks of the job. But none of it is guaranteed. Not a single bit.
Modelling isn’t a fairy tale. There’s no wand to wave, no magic potion. It’s a career. One that demands hard work, patience, and persistence—and even then, outcomes aren’t assured.
So, if your goal is to “get rich fast,” think again. If your goal is to grow, learn, and create opportunities, then modelling can be incredibly rewarding.
Myth 5: Is Modelling a Sustainable Long-Term Career?
Here’s something many aspiring models don’t realize: modelling doesn’t last forever.
Yes, the industry has plenty of opportunities—but it’s not a career you can rely on for decades. So, before you dive in, ask yourself a tough question:
“What happens after it’s over?”
Some models transition to TV, others to films, and a few to related fields like brand endorsements, coaching, or photography. But none of this happens automatically. You have to plan ahead, develop additional skills, and stay proactive.
While modelling can open doors, you’ll need to work on acting, communication, or even business skills if you want to stay relevant once the “modeling window” closes.
The takeaway? Treat modelling as a stepping stone, not a lifelong guarantee. Focus on building yourself—skills, confidence, and a network that lasts long after the photoshoot lights go off.
My Modelling Journey: Lessons Learned from Trying to Become a Model
I faced the camera for the first time in 1997—for a telefilm audition.
The film? Never went on the floor.
I was a fresh Delhi University graduate, full of dreams, and I wanted to make a career in modelling. But honestly? I had no clue how to start.
So I tried… whatever came my way.
And I suffered. Miserably.
A couple of years and a few thousand rupees later, I realized—I was in trouble.
I spent ₹5,000 on a portfolio. The photographer duped me. I borrowed that money. I lost it.
But you know what? I wasn’t a quitter.
I faced the camera again in 2006, this time as a TV anchor.
In 2009, I shot 13 episodes of a low-budget TV show.
In 2010, a TV commercial and a Hindi documentary.
Am I a professional model now?
No.
Here’s the honest truth: I didn’t succeed because I didn’t actually like being a model. I was chasing money, not the craft.
And that’s the lesson I want to share with you:
Choose modelling only if you’re crazy about it.
If you chase it for the wrong reasons—money, fame, or validation—you’ll burn out before you even get started. But if you love it, every early morning, every photoshoot, every missed meal and late-night practice becomes part of something meaningful.
What It Takes to Become a Successful Model: Skills, Fitness & More
Model Physique & Facial Features: What Really Matters
Let’s be real: your facial features are mostly what you’re born with. Pointed nose? Dimples? Full lips? That’s part of you.
Sure, some celebrities change things with cosmetic surgery—but for most aspiring models, how you carry yourself, your presence, and your confidence matter far more than minor tweaks.
Focus on what you can control: posture, expressions, and how you engage with the camera.
Skin & Complexion Tips for Aspiring Models
Skin color isn’t a barrier. White, brown, beige—it doesn’t matter. What matters is healthy, cared-for skin.
I once tried Neem juice because my grandmother swore it helped with blood purification and skin health. Yuck, it was bitter—but over time, I noticed my skin felt clearer and healthier.
Lesson: Slow, consistent care beats chasing shortcuts. Natural, simple routines are far more reliable than gimmicks or expensive quick fixes.
Height & Posture Guidelines for Aspiring Models
Height can help in modelling, but it’s not everything. Posture, confidence, and overall presentation often outweigh a few centimeters. Focus on what you can improve, like stance, poise, and physical conditioning.
Fitness & Exercise Routines for Aspiring Models
A model’s body isn’t about perfection—it’s about health, stamina, and proportion.
Two kinds of fitness work are key:
Aerobic exercises – jogging, skipping, treadmill walking. Great for endurance and fat loss.
Strength training – weights and resistance exercises. Build muscle, tone your body, and improve posture.
How to start: Begin small. Learn the basics. Consistency matters more than intensity. Over time, your body becomes camera-ready without burning out.
✅ Key Takeaways:
- Invest in yourself—presence, confidence, and posture matter more than minor physical traits.
- Care for your body and skin naturally; shortcuts rarely work long-term.
- Fitness is a marathon, not a sprint. Start small, stay consistent, and improve gradually.
Sleep & Recovery Tips for Model Readiness
Let’s talk about one of the most important things for a healthy body: sleep.
Honestly? If I had to choose between sleep and food, I’d pick sleep every time. You can skip dinner occasionally—but you cannot skip a good night’s rest.
Life used to be slower, calmer—sleep came naturally. Today, it’s different. Phones, tablets, TVs, social media—our minds rarely get a break. We rush through everything, and our bodies never get a proper transition from wakefulness to rest.
Think about it: suddenly realizing it’s 11:30 PM and rushing straight to bed? That’s a jolt your body doesn’t need. Deep, restorative sleep becomes elusive.
Let the Transition Happen
Here’s what really works:
- Turn off screens 45 minutes before bed. The brain needs darkness to know it’s time to rest.
- Use a camphor dispenser. Turn off the lights, let the aroma calm you, and signal your mind that it’s time to unwind.
- Wash your legs and face. A warm soak refreshes your body and calms your mind.
- Play relaxing music or nature sounds. Rain, soft instrumentals—anything that slows your thoughts.
- Gaze at the moon. Funny? Maybe. Effective? Absolutely. It calms the mind.
- Drink warm milk. About 30–45 minutes before bed—it’s a gentle nudge to your body that sleep is coming.
The key: gentle preparation. Treat sleep like nature treats the day: a smooth transition, not a sudden jolt. Do this consistently, and you’ll notice the difference—in energy, mood, and performance.
✅ Takeaway: Sleep isn’t optional. It’s part of your performance toolkit. Treat it with care, respect your body’s rhythm, and watch how your energy, focus, and confidence improve.
Communication Skills Every Model Should Master
Here’s the thing: anyone serious about a career—modelling included—needs good communication skills. And no, that doesn’t just mean speaking English well.
Good communication is about expressing yourself clearly and confidently, whether you’re talking to a photographer, a client, or a fellow model. That’s it. Simple, but crucial.
Respect Your Mother Tongue
Many young people, especially from small towns or rural areas, shy away from their mother tongue, fearing they’ll be labeled “uncivilized.”
Here’s my take: never be ashamed of who you are. Your mother tongue is the foundation of how you express yourself. If you ignore it or disrespect it, no amount of English lessons will make you feel at ease in your own skin. You’ll just end up sounding awkward—like wearing clothes that don’t fit.
That doesn’t mean you must speak your local dialect everywhere. No. Speak politely, respectfully, and confidently, no matter the language. Take pride in your roots—it shows in everything you say and do.
✅ Takeaway: Fluency in English can help, yes, but clarity, confidence, and authenticity matter far more. Respect your roots, own your voice, and communicate like someone who knows their worth.
Professional Etiquette Tips for Aspiring Models
Have you ever had the misfortune of eating next to someone who chomps loudly or makes disgusting sounds? I have. Unbearable doesn’t even cover it.
Now, take a moment and think about yourself:
- Do you make chop-chop sounds while eating?
- Pick your nose while talking?
- Munch on biscuits during a phone call?
- Shove or push people in elevators or metros?
If any of these hit close to home, it’s time for some unlearning. Etiquette matters—it shows respect for yourself and those around you. Small habits create a lasting impression, especially in modelling, where you’re constantly observed.
✅ Takeaway: Polite behavior and awareness of your actions go a long way. Your manners are part of your professional image.
Wardrobe Tips & Style Guide for Aspiring Models
The biggest wardrobe mistake aspiring models make? Wearing outdated clothes or following fashion rules from another era.
Ask yourself honestly: are your clothes current and appropriate for the image you want to project? If not, it’s time to upgrade your wardrobe.
Modern doesn’t mean Western. It means smart, clean, and fitting your personality. Your style should enhance your presence, not distract from it.
✅ Takeaway: Clothes matter—but choose what complements you, not what trends dictate.
Why Strategic Selfishness Matters in Modelling
Selfishness? You might be thinking, “What does that have to do with modelling?” A lot, actually. But hear me out. I’m not talking about being cruel or mean—just strategically selfish. And here’s why it matters.
Modelling is fiercely competitive. People will go to great lengths to grab assignments—even backstabbing those who helped them along the way. Shocking? Maybe. True? Absolutely.
Some will befriend you, not because they like you, but because they want information—like the next big, high-paying assignment. And one day, you could wake up to find a project you pitched… gone. Taken by your so-called “best friend.”
This is why a bit of strategic selfishness is essential. It means:
- Prioritize your time and energy.
- Protect your opportunities without guilt.
- Know when to say no.
If you can’t handle a little self-focus, modelling—or any highly competitive career—will feel like swimming against a tsunami.
✅ Takeaway: Being a little selfish is not a flaw here; it’s survival and professionalism. Learn it early, and it will serve you well.
How to Build a Winning Modelling Portfolio
A portfolio is by far the most important asset for any aspiring model. Think of it as your personal calling card—a collection of professional photos that show how you’d look on TV, in magazines, or in advertisements.
Here’s the reality: a 30–40 photo portfolio can take 2–3 days, depending on how many outfits you change and the setup. And yes, it costs money. But cheap usually means ineffective. Your neighborhood studio? Fuggedaboutit. It won’t cut it.
So, what should you do?
- Ask around: online forums, articles, or advice from established models.
- Choose a photographer who knows what they’re doing.
- Always keep your photos ready in both digital and physical formats.
Your portfolio isn’t just pictures—it’s your introduction to the world. Treat it with care.
Finding Modelling Work After Your Portfolio Is Ready
Once your portfolio is ready, it’s time to get noticed.
- Start by Googling “modelling agencies in [your city].”
- Shortlist agencies, read reviews, and if possible, speak with models who’ve worked with them.
- Beware of registration fees—many agencies promising overnight success are scams. Golden rule: never pay upfront.
- Some agencies might ask for a share of your assignment fee. That’s fine—but only after you’ve been paid, never before.
Yes, You Can Start Your Modelling Career Today
So, there you have it. I’ve shared the mistakes I made, the lessons I learned, and the realities of trying to make a modelling career. Now it’s your turn.
If you take these lessons to heart, you’ll avoid the traps I fell into. You’ll be smarter, better prepared, and a lot less stressed.
Remember: modelling isn’t just about looks. It’s about presence, confidence, patience, and persistence. It’s about learning, improving, and taking care of yourself—physically, mentally, and socially.
Most importantly: choose modelling only if it truly excites you. Don’t chase money. Don’t chase fame. Chase the craft. Chase the joy of being in front of the camera because it makes you feel alive. That’s the only way you’ll last, and that’s the only way you’ll enjoy it.
And now, just one small question before you go:
Will you give me an autograph?
All the best on your journey!