Modelling: Career in glamour world

Introduction Image: 

Whether it is a desire to walk the ramp or produce that picture perfect pose, Modelling has certainly become a much sought after career option. Increasing media of entertainment have only added to this field becoming a thrilling and lucrative profession. As India continues to gather more and more attention in the international media, the demand for fresh faces and personalities to fit the bill of promoting brands and products is going to increase in years in come.

Modelling has always been associated with oodles of glamour and tremendous opportunities to connect with various people and create a name for the person behind a picture. Fame and success in this field, like in any other, comes with its share of hard work, perseverance and dedication. The stress factor remains high with erratic work hours.

There is no specific qualification or age limit to enter this field.  To begin, interested candidates must prepare a portfolio which consists of a series of photographs taken by a professional photographer. The portfolio can then be shared with an advertising agency, a model co-ordinating agency or a fashion designer. Candidates can also directly apply for modelling contests or participate in beauty pageants. 
 
Institutes/Agencies

There are no set standards of training in this area. However certain schools set up by ex-models or modelling agencies provide guidance on beauty care, make-up, hair styling, diet, exercise, how to make a contract, make a portfolio etc. Some agencies that offer assistance to prospective models are:
•    Elite Model Management or Elite School of Modelling http://www.elitemodelsindia.com/
•    Glamourhunt Communications http://www.glamourhunt.com/
•    New Indian Models http://www.newindianmodels.com/
•    Meyhar Bhasin Academy Ph: 011-26292201/02/03
Candidates must be wary of rogue agencies that promise great careers but ask for a hefty joining or administration fee up front. Enough research should be done before finalising on the right agency.
Prospective models can also join acting or dance classes to enhance their portfolio.

Personal attributes

Physical attributes are of paramount importance. A healthy complexion, lustrous hair and well toned body are the basic requirements. For ramp models in particular, a good posture, walking style, body language and height are important factors. Women are expected to be 5'7" to 6' or 6' plus while men should be 6' or 6' plus. Being photogenic is significant, alongside camera friendly attitude and self confidence. Punctuality and reliability are crucial as photo shoots and fashion shows have very tight and demanding schedules. Models need to be patient as they’re likely to wait for long periods until their role is required. They must have resilience and strength of character to cope with rejection and criticism. They should be good at getting on with others as they'll be working with a wide range of people from fashion designers to directors and photographers and other models. Modelling is also a highly competitive and short- lived career. It therefore pays to have a backup of academic or vocational qualifications to ease the transition into another career after modelling.

Job Prospects

Models can find lucrative jobs in several media ranging from product advertising, music videos, fashion shows, showroom displays to acting in television programmes or films. 

Modelling for television involves being before the camera. The footage is used for commercials, cinema, video, internet etc. and often includes acting or dance. For print, models pose for still photographs used in press advertisements, brochures, magazines, catalogues, calendars etc. Models for advertisements tend to be of all age groups.

In case of show room advertising, models work for exporters, garment manufacturers and retailers to display the latest trends of fashion to the buyers.
Ramp modelling requires models to display garments and accessories in front of a live audience. This can be at an exhibition or a fashion show, or at a showroom or point of purchase.

Remuneration

The pay depends upon how prestigious the show is and who the organisers are. Female models typically earn more than male models for similar work. Established models can earn anything between Rs 20,000 to Rs 50,000 per show. Low budget shows pay models somewhere around Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000. Print ads pay according to the number of photographs used. Reputed magazines pay around Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 per photograph.

Modelling can be an exciting and well-paid profession for the right person. It can provide the platform to be creative and to be exposed to a wide range of learning opportunities. It takes the right attitude, commitment and enthusiasm to make a success of it.