How to Become a Female Model in Colorado

Requirements for Modeling Portfolios and Agencies in Colorado

If you are truly photogenic and ready to enter the fashion modeling world there are a few things you absolutely must know before getting started. What about the types; How about the agencies; How tall do I have to be; What agency is Tyra Banks with; What if I am between 13 and 15 years old; Can I do petite or plus size or, maybe even body parts poses? These are just a few of the questions I receive as a professional portfolio photographer. I'll try to give a few answers below.

Female and male models living in CO from cities like Denver or maybe even Aspen are getting started in this portion of the entertainment and performing arts profession every day and don't really know where to begin.

Options for Colorado Models ...

Commercial

If you are not tall enough or don't quite have the look for runway or high fashion then you certainly should look into applying to commercial modeling agencies. Many agents cross a wide field but this is one of the types handled. This type modeling is open to male and female, super young and mature men and women who are outgoing, know posing and body language techniques and have a certain requirement the agent needs for particular commercial clients.

For instance, if you turn on the TV today, you'll see lots of baby boomers and seniors advertising all sorts of services and products for aging, etc. No skinny supermodels here!

For your portfolio - To do commercial work you'll need slice of life, or lifestyle type photos. Practice posing naturally and just being yourself. Pictures need to show a variety including facial expressions or sadness, anger, happiness, etc. This field is more open in states like Colorado than the "traditional" modeling types.

Runway and High Fashion

Female and males who grace the covers of Vogue, Cosmopolitan or, who walk the much coveted NY runway are considered high fashion models. These are the cream of the crop and include names such as Cindy Crawford, Jessica Stam and Lily Donaldson. It's almost an incredible feat to get to the top of this list.

A very competetive type and you'll need representation by an agency such as IMG or Ford, etc. You can find their requirements online and submit photos for consideration.. If you are a 5'9" or taller female with great skin, teeth and hair, go for it! For males, 6'1" is a good height with a waist size of 29 to 32.

Although you can find local work as a fashion or runway model in Colorado, the chances of becoming "famous" decrease. You'll most likely have to travel to make the big time.

Your Model Portfolio

Before submitting a portfolio to Colorado modeling agencies, make sure that you have your pictures ready. Every talent agency is looking for something within a model, but there are some guidelines to follow. When posing for photographers, make sure these shots are included ...

• Headshot - One with retouching if you like but include one closeup of you wearing little or no makeup
• Full Length - At least one full length photograph of you wearing a swimsuit or tight fitting clothes so the agency can see your full figure
• 3/4 - Include some 3/4 length photos in a variety of poses and outfits.
• Types of Pictures - Try for a good assortment. Include fashion (maybe dress clothes or suit if you are a male), casual clothing, swimwear or bikini, sports or fitness (if you have the body) and other pictures you feel represents the type modeling you plan to pursue. Get your photographer to help with your posing in each of these outfits.

The agents want to see the real you so that they know what material they have to work with. Hiring a professional modeling portfolio photographer in Colorado will costs anywhere around $500 to $1,000 depending on the number of pictures, outfits, the experience of the photography company, location, etc.

You should use a professional portfolio photographer to create your modeling photos, one that understands that you receive reprint rights so that you can have comp cards printed, prints for a book, etc. Make sure this is included before setting up an appointment.

Final Thought

Now that you've read a little about becoming a CO model, it's time to get started. Begin by looking online or through fashion magazines to see some good posing examples. Try to match these poses at first and then change them so you have your own. Then, practice, practice, practice every day until you feel comfortable. Only then should you get in front of the camera.

You have the dream, these are some goals, so make your modeling career happen!

More Female Modeling Advice

Bob Pardue Photography