Are you planning a career in plus-size modelling? If you answer yes, you must plan well ahead. A methodical plan of action and organized preparations can open doors sooner than expected. It will also give you an edge over your peers aspiring to become models.
The competition is tough. Only those who plan smart will have a greater chance of getting signed on by leading modelling agencies. But you can always start with smaller agencies and then work your way up till you get through the doors of the top agencies.
Initial Steps to Take When Seeking a Career as a Plus-Size Model
This is your opportunity to become a part of the glamorous world of modelling. Start with these three things:
- Plan on the type of model you wish to be.
- Learn a related skill (nothing necessarily complex) and start practising. Take some classes if need be.
- Build an impressive resume and create your portfolio.
- Begin to scout for an agent.
- Showcase yourself on social media.
Start Small and Build Up from There
You can start small. Be a big fish in a small pond. If New York, Rome, or Paris is far from your reach, begin in a smaller but upcoming city and then build your portfolio and resume from there. Later, you can begin plans to venture out to the big cities.
Fashion shows and related events occur in smaller towns and cities, so you can create a presence and build a reputation locally. These little jobs will teach you the in-roads into building a career in the plus-size modelling industry. It will be an excellent opportunity for you to get familiar with them. The skills you can acquire include:
- Auditioning and small-time acting.
- Working with agents in the fashion industry.
- Filming or photography.
- Offering head and body photoshoot services.
- Working with a fashion and style print media house.
- Play minor roles for television or do small commercials.
Jobs like these are good for experience and are skills that will add credibility to your resume. The good thing? While you learn and build your résumé, you will earn some income.
Learn from Career Big-Sized Models
You can learn from the industry professionals like other plus-size models. Research and read about them. Their early beginnings, how they chased their dreams, and how they started their career. Follow them on social media sites and YouTube if they have a channel. They most probably do. Follow their progress and see how they do whatever it is they do. Notice what they did or are doing to achieve their aspirations. Research and study are the keywords.
Practice some of the things you learn from them. Enroll in online classes. And when you finally get the much-awaited audition for that dream modelling role, you will have acquired some skills and a great understanding of the industry.
A Successful Career in Plus-Size Modeling Demands You Be Proud of Your Size
Do not try to lose weight if you aspire to be a plus-size model. What you need is a well-toned body. Being plus-size without being flabby is best. If you prefer to lose weight before pursuing a modelling career, there is nothing wrong with that. Except you will be widening your competition. Not good.
So, even if you are fat, you should be proud of your size. Your chances of being a successful model are higher. Being successful in the field demands you be bold and confident.
Tips:
- Be discerning and avoid getting ripped off by scammers claiming they can fix you up with modelling agents.
- If anyone requests deposits or advance fees, do not pay. You can almost be sure that they are scammers.
- Only legitimate modelling agencies or agents should demand payments. and only when models are offered placements and paid.
- A general average of 15% to 20% commission is usually charged on plus-size modelling contracts after you get paid for the job.
- Agency fees of 10% or thereabouts are charged for television or movie contracts.
Some modelling agencies can legally negotiate deals for you. However, do your homework first. Then find out if there are licensed plus-size model agents in your locality. If there are, start with them. It is best to get the services of a legitimately licensed agency if you plan to pursue a modelling career.