How to Become a Model in Teenage Fashion

Nov 7, 2010
Christina Majaski

Unless you are one of the lucky teens that are “discovered” and hired to model on the spot, teens that are interested in becoming a model may need to take a few extra steps. Here are some helpful tips as well as some things to watch out for when pursuing a career in modeling.

Fashion Modeling Schools

Teens that have made the decision to follow a career path in modeling may choose to attend a fashion modeling school. There are fashion colleges in California, Chicago, Europe; you can attend nearly anywhere in the world that you choose. Although some believe that fashion modeling schools are a waste of time and money, students do acquire the confidence necessary to become a fashion model as well as an education in applying cosmetics, top fashion designers and photo shoots.

Promotional Modeling Jobs

Promotional modeling jobs are not exactly fashion modeling or print modeling. Promotional modeling is for experienced or aspiring models for products that can range from beverages to passing out flyers at the mall. These jobs usually pay at least $15.00 per hour, so although not as glamorous or exciting as fashion modeling, promotional modeling jobs can give an aspiring model basic experience while paying the bills. There are promotional modeling agencies that can find you these types of jobs and are usually easier to land than other fashion modeling gigs. Usually promotional modeling jobs are available for models as young as 17 and require an energetic personality.

Teenage Modeling Agencies

Teens interested in modeling will also want to check into acquiring a modeling agent or agency that specializes in children’s and teen modeling. Although it is possible to find modeling jobs on your own through Craigslist and online, teenage modeling agencies will be able to find the best clients for the work you want to do. Check your area for agencies such as Elite Model Management or Wilhelmina Models. Sometimes there are small local agencies that are just as successful as the bigger and more popular modeling agencies.

Fashion Model Don'ts

Teens that are pursuing careers in modeling should be aware that not all agents are legitimate. You will need parental permission for most modeling jobs and it is wise to have parental support to weed out the agents and clients that may not have your best interests in mind.

Don’t pay a modeling agency to represent you. There are agents and agencies that will require money upfront to find you work, but will not guarantee that you will have work. Agents are generally paid a percentage agreed upon when you get the modeling jobs, not for just being your agent.
Don’t do anything you’re unsure of or uncomfortable with. Remember that photos can be forever and if you aren’t comfortable with promoting something or taking specific photos, do not do so just because it’s a modeling job.
Don’t decide on the modeling agency without researching. Make sure you are dealing with a legitimate agency. It is also best to check with a few different ones to decide which one would be the best for you and the modeling that you’re interested in.
Don’t be disappointed if you are turned down. Models may attend a number of go-sees and auditions and are not usually chosen for all of them. Also do not be discouraged if the agency of your dreams does not choose to represent you. It is better for an agent to decline representation if they are not positive that they can do the best job, than to represent you and never find you any modeling gigs.

Fashion Modeling is a dream of many teenagers and can be attained through a little work and research. Be prepared for more than just looking pretty, and a lot of work in the process.