A model is a person who poses or displays for artistic, fashion, or other products and advertising purposes.
Modeling is different from other types of public performance, like acting, dancing or mime artistry, though the boundaries are not well-defined. Appearing in a movie or a play, regardless of the nature of the role, is usually not considered modeling. However, many models can also introduce themselves as actors. Fashion modeling is like acting because models have to express a feeling and emotion in their photos.
When people think of modeling, they generally think of runway shows or models presented in glossy fashion magazines. The fashion industry employs the largest number of models. Modeling began as a profession in 1853. The credit goes to French designer, Charles Frederic Worth, known as the father of fashionable clothes, who asked his wife, Maria Augustine, to be his model for the clothes he designed. Earlier, clothes were displayed on mannequins.
Table of Contents
Types of modeling
1- Editorial modeling , Most famous type of modeling
With the rise of the fashion industry and the advent of fashion photography, the field for modeling increased. Lisa Fonssagrives is said to be the initial model to gain popularity by appearing in over 200 Vogue editions. Vogue became a major player in the fashion industry and created opportunities for many future models. Additionally, it was not until the 1960s that modeling found the right gears. Modeling agencies were created and agents were mediated. As of 2010, the US modeling and talent industry is worth $5 billion.
Fashion models are also known as editorial models. It refers to storytelling via photos. It consists of showcasing designers, present fashion or beauty trends, the latest in hair and makeup. Such models often seen working for fashion brands like Gucci, Dior, Armani and others. They will often be seen in high fashion magazines like Vogue. This type of modeling is generally quite specialized, most female models are classically ‘slim’ and at least 5ft 9 inches. For men, the required height is 5 feet and 11 inches to 6 feet and 3 inches. Well-known editorial fashion Photography models are Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, Chrissy Teigen.
2- Commercial modeling
Commercial Models are not limited by age, height, or size. Thus, this modeling type is the most open to diverse and new talent. Commercial models advertise a wide range of products in catalogs, campaigns, and commercials.
According to the industry’s standard sample size, commercial models are hired if they are between 5’6” to 5’11” in the case of women and men are required to be between 5’9 to 6’2”. The type of model needs and preference varies depending on the client of Commercial Photography.
3- Promotional modeling
Promotional model known as promo models or brand ambassadors as well. They usually work in jobs by consumer-driven labels.
These types of models are there to create a fun environment while also looking great; thus it is important that the model has excellent communication skills. This type is the most varied in looks, and scouts widely for new talent. These models are part of promotional events, trade shows, live shows, and programs. They should be extroverted and greatly interactive, as a main part of their career is to drive consumer needs for a particular product or service, through directly interacting with potential clients.
4- Parts modeling
Like the name, a parts models specialize in modeling their hands, arms, legs, and feet. A hand model can book a job that includes jewelry, while a foot model can book a job with a shoe company. Both of them can book a job for nail care and beauty. In general, customers are looking for models that have body parts that fit standard shoes and jewelry. Brands generally look for models with well-proportioned body part.
Parts models take intense care of themselves, being careful not to have any bruises, cuts, dirt, or other oddness on them.
5- Catwalk/ Runway modeling
Catwalk or runway models are probably the most influential, since they popularize many of the fashion-driven content and adaptions in personal styling. The height needed are 5.9 and above for women models and between 5’11” to 6’2” for men models. The fashion industry is so strict and has high, and sometimes unreasonable standards. As the requirements are not so flexible, it is a difficult industry to enter into. Most fashion designers hire models to fit into their collections. Skinny models are the most preferred ones.
6- Fitness modeling
Fitness modeling, also referred to as sports modeling, is often overlooked. Keep in mind that, Actually, the majority of fitness models are usually toned and have well-defined bodies. Fitness models mostly work for supplement manufacturers, athletic-wear companies, fitness companies, and fitness publications. They turn up in everything from catalogs and magazines to billboards and promotional materials.
Some fitness models have worked professionally before, so they have experience in that environment, but not all of them, and many jobs can include commercial photography and supplement advertising.
7- Glamour modeling
The term “glamour” refers to a deceptive or exciting aspect that makes people or things look attractive. Glamour modeling is a type of modeling that focuses on the appearance or presentation of a model. Glamour modeling is commonly used for commercial purposes, and photos appear in magazines, posters, calendars, and cosmetic advertisements. Glamour models must be at least 18 years old to be considered.
Their bodies and appearance must follow the agency’s instructions. Your glamour photography can benefit from the right settings. As a result, it is important to learn how to choose the ideal areas which fit your concept, highlight your wardrobe and cosmetics, and integrate with your entire look.
8- Fit modeling
Fit Models works with fashion designers and manufacturers to make sure that every outfit fits, drapes and moves perfectly. Because the clothing and fashion industries respond to a wide range of people, their samples are tailored to fit different shapes and sizes. Their items cannot be carried unless their clothing size is double- checked. This is when the role of an appropriate model comes into play. Fit models, whether small or large, do not need to publish editorial and runway figures in publications, but their job requires them to be colorful and to maintain a consistent weight. Fit models, who have ideal size of 6 or 8 bodies, have a big impact on the fit of the items we buy.
9- Swimsuits modeling
According to the brand, this could be a category suitable for any body shape and type. From underwear to lingerie to swimsuits and nightwear.
Swimwear and lingerie models are often confused with glamour models, but the two are not interchangeable. Swimwear and underwear models, as the name implies, are specialized clothing models like lingerie, swimsuits, summer and nightwear. Depending on their expertise and versatility, these models can participate in fashion band shows, appear in fashion editorials, and even appear in the commercial catalogs for various brands, designers, and retailers. Models of this type must be careful about their nutrition to retain their shape and size.
10- Photo modeling
Not everyone is born tall enough to be a runway model, and thus may not qualify for the high-end fashion modeling needs. Any way, this does not mean that you should leave your modeling dreams. There are photo models. For instance, consider your last visit to the dentist. It is likely that you’ve seen a promotional photo of a smiling, healthy looking model promoting a particular brand of toothpaste. The model in that photo is a photo model.
Conclusion
Take into your account that everyone is unique in their own way, so you can always invest on the talents you have. If your dream is to be a model, you need to know what options are available for your career advancement. Even each of these categories have a sub-category. It is essential to talk to an expert to learn how to make decisions that will help you grow your potential and improve your reputation. For instance, if your photo appears everywhere and can be purchased for $5, why does Chanel pay you tens of thousands of dollars for a beauty campaign? These are essential things to care about, and your decisions, if made right, can be the ticket to your dream life.
