How to approach an agency / co-ordinator?
The oldest way to go about it is to visit them. Book an appointment ahead of time by phone. Bring at least 2 pictures. They don't have to be professional pictures. A head shot, natural and clear. Also a full length shot that somewhat reveals your figure, a clingy dress , swimsuit, figure flattering clothes or other tight fittings garments should be worn. Forget about baggy clothes! It will tip off viewers that you have something to hide. Ask lots of questions. Ask to see what work their models are currently doing? Ask for names and phone number of clients and call them to verify the information, be concerned if they promise you work right away or promise you high salaries. If they don't allow you time to think about it or if they use pressure techniques to sign the contract, be concerned. They should not ask for money up-front for classes or training. Be concerned if the they claim to be looking for ordinary people. Reputed agencies/coordinators might have open interviews during the week, give them a call and find out. Also you can send your photo and resume as mentioned earlier.
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Portfolio: What is it?
It's a collection of your modelling pictures. How many pictures you need varies. You should only keep strong pictures, you are only as good as your worst picture! Models should aim for quality not quantity! Avoid using 2 pictures of the same shoot (same look) Black and White is the favourite of the industry. 9 by 12 inches are the standard size. Your agency will require you to buy an 11 by 14 inches for their book (portfolio). A basic but versatile portfolio would have a casual head shot, styled head shot, body shot (conservative swimsuit or lingerie), a fashion shot (sexy) , action shot, an editorial shot and even a catalogue shot. As you gain experience replace the older pictures with newer one. Keep your best picture at the end to leave a lasting impression! Do not wear jewellery for those prints, it takes the attention away from you. The wrong choice of undergarments may show panty line or bra straps and will distract the viewer (on the job, or in interviews it can mean the difference between looking professional or not). Tailor your portfolio for your strengths and the type of modelling you are doing.
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What is a Comp card (not applicable in India)?
Comp card is a card with a few pictures on it. It also has the information on how to reach modelling agency. It contains your statistic and measurements. They cost between US$ 200 to 300 for 200 cards. The model pays for them and your agency will tell you how many you need to get started
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Tips on how to choose a photographer
Avoid "portrait photographer" they often don't understand the need of the fashion industry. See the photographer's portfolio. Do you like it? Does it represent the style and format your looking for? Commercial photographers might be a good source of work! Keep that in mind. Be concerned about photographers who seek to take nude pictures of you or claims to be working on a swimsuit calendar. Photographers should be professional and respectful and you should bring a friend along. Always be cheerful, you never know when you might get a free shoot or a free picture or an extra roll done at no extra cost! If you bring your own clothes to the shoot, always bring extra. If the photographer for example like your look and decides to do an extra roll you will be ready to benefit from it. Keep an open mind photographers loves to do editorial shots.