By top model Katty Ukhanova
Katty Ukhanova has been modeling successfully for over a decade, meeting all of the challenges that the fashion industry demanded. ”I would like to share my knowledge, gleaned from my experience as an international model signed with top agencies around the world. Modeling is a competitive industry that requires dedication. To become a professional model, it is essential to learn the necessary requirements of the job.”
Photo by Sasha Vasha
1. Play your strengths.
What’s your greatest strength? Do you have a flair for movement, dancing, or athletics? Do you have beautiful skin, perfect for beauty shots? Or a catwalk destined for fashion shows? Every shoot requires a particular look, and specific skills. Understanding yourself and your talents as a model will give your career a direction: to pursue the right jobs, and to thrive in your opportunities. You must learn whether your work is best suited for sports brands, cosmetics, runway, etc. Identify your unique gift, and concentrate on this specialty. You need to keep in mind that you have something unique to offer.
2. Create a professional portfolio.
Your photos are your greatest advocates: they will work for you, bringing your desired clients to you. Choose the best photographers who specialize in test shoots. How can you find them? Go on the Instagram pages of regular fashion models, and you will often find their test shoots posted. These posts will often include a tag of the photographers who took these photos. The average cost of high-quality modeling tests range from $450-$700. Use very simple styling: ensure that you are the focus of these shots, not your clothing or surroundings. Take variations of angles: portraits and full length photos. If you are offered free creative shoots for your portfolio, it might be great practice for you, and new connections can lead to future jobs. Prior to scheduling any shoot, be sure that the team is professional, and you like their work. Respect yourself and your time as a professional—do not put your body or your career in the hands of amateurs.
3. Know your body and know your client.
Learn about your range of posing, facial expressions, and your best angles. Have a clear understanding of what kind of shoot you are commissioned for. Do your homework: Check the website of the clients to understand the style of their shoots, their themes as a company, and their general vibe.
4. Go to open calls to get signed with an agency.
Check what are the top five agencies currently in your city, and just go for it! Come to the casting in a simple black or white top, jeans, and heels—the less makeup is better. And don’t forget your portfolio. Your confidence and radiant energy can bring you a contract. Most of the agents want to see not only a beautiful girl, but a model who has personality, charisma, and talents. Remember that you are one-of-a-kind and unique.
5. Study… but not in school.
Don’t go to modeling schools. Instead learn from supermodels: specifically, their poses. Study iconic photography from the best fashion photographers of our time, for example: Richard Avedon, Steve Meisel, Peter Lindbergh, etc. Immerse yourself in this art, so that you can develop and refine your taste, and understand what the industry considers to be high profile work. Pose in front of the mirror, and take dance and acting classes. It will improve your coordination and your ability to pose in proper photographic lines. It will also teach you about emotional content and expression. At the end of the day, we sell a feeling, not just a pretty picture.
6. Be active on social media.
Your clients are most interested in your most recent looks: show them you are as beautiful as ever, and ready to work. Potential clients are always looking for new talent. Look at how other successful models manage their IG: Often, they represent their personal style of clothing, life, fitness, and art.
7. Take care of your physical and emotional health.
The two components play a very important role in your modeling career. Taking care of your body is a big part of modeling. While there are now more modeling opportunities for various body types and clothing sizes, you still have to take care of your skin, hair, and nails. Models travel a lot, and being far away from family and friends can be hard. Models meet with a lot of rejection—some clients can cancel you at the very last minute. Understanding that it is just part of the job, without taking it personally, can help you a lot.
8. Location.
Don’t be afraid to change city or country. Some models work much better in NY, while others thrive in LA, Europe, or Asia.
9. Build a good relationship with your agent.
Choose the person who is representing you wisely. It is important that they believe in you, and play an active role in your career. Beyond working your contracts, your agency should be setting you up for new test shoots, and giving you castings every week. Say thank you and be grateful to people who are helping you advance your career.
10. Believe in your self and trust that everything is possible!
Even when you are told “No” or there is no modeling job on the horizon. Your dream shoot will soon find you! As long as you grow and learn every day about fashion, yourself, and the practice of being a professional model.
