Modeling is one of the most sought-after careers for people who possess good looks, confidence, and the ability to pose and perform in front of the camera. The modeling industry has grown tremendously over the years, and today, there are various types of modeling opportunities available for both men and women. Modeling can be a lucrative career, and many models earn a handsome income from their work. In this article, we will explore how to turn your looks into a modeling career and get paid to be beautiful.
Who is a Model ?
A model is an individual who is contracted by companies or fashion brands to showcase and advertise commercial products such as clothes, makeup, beverages, or automobiles. They may also pose as a visual reference for artists or photographers. Although female models are more commonly seen, male models are also utilized in the industry, particularly for modeling clothing.
Types of Modeling:
Before we dive into the details of how to become a model, let’s first take a look at the different types of modeling. Knowing the different types of modeling will help you determine which area of modeling you would like to pursue and help you prepare for the specific requirements of that field.
1. Fashion Modeling
Fashion modeling is one of the most popular types of modeling and involves modeling for clothing brands, magazines, and runways. Fashion models need to have a specific look and meet certain height and weight requirements.
2. Commercial Modeling
Commercial modeling involves modeling for advertisements, catalogs, and other commercial purposes. The requirements for commercial modeling are not as strict as fashion modeling, and commercial models come in all shapes, sizes, and ages.
3. Fitness Modeling
Fitness modeling involves modeling for fitness brands, workout equipment, and fitness magazines. Fitness models need to have a toned and fit physique.
4. Glamour Modeling
Glamour modeling involves modeling for men’s magazines, lingerie brands, and swimsuit brands. Glamour models need to be comfortable posing in revealing clothing and have a sultry look.
5. Plus-Size Modeling
Plus-size modeling involves modeling for clothing brands that cater to plus-size women. Plus-size models need to have a curvy figure and meet certain size requirements.
6. Alternative Modeling
Alternative modeling involves modeling for brands that cater to subcultures, such as goth, punk, or alternative fashion. Alternative models need to have a unique and edgy look.
How to Become a Model:
Now that we have looked at the different types of modeling let’s explore how to become a model.
1. Build Your Portfolio:
The first step to becoming a model is to build your portfolio. A portfolio is a collection of your best photographs that showcase your unique look and talent. Your portfolio is your resume in the modeling industry, and it’s what modeling agencies and clients will use to evaluate your potential.
To build your portfolio, you can start by working with a local photographer or modeling agency. You can also participate in local modeling contests or fashion shows to gain exposure and build your portfolio.
2. Find a Modeling Agency
Once you have a portfolio, the next step is to find a modeling agency. A modeling agency is an organization that represents models and connects them with clients who need models for their campaigns. Modeling agencies have a network of clients and can help you find modeling jobs.
To find a modeling agency, you can start by researching modeling agencies in your area or online. Look for agencies that specialize in the type of modeling you’re interested in and have a good reputation in the industry. You can also attend open casting calls or send your portfolio to modeling agencies to get noticed.
3. Attend Castings and Auditions
Once you have a modeling agency, the agency will help you find castings and auditions for modeling jobs. Castings and auditions are events where models are selected for specific modeling jobs. These events can be in-person or online, and they often involve meeting with clients and demonstrating your modeling skills.
To prepare for castings and auditions, you should practice your posing and runway walk and be ready to showcase your portfolio and unique look. You should also dress appropriately for the event and bring a copy of your portfolio and any other relevant documents.
4. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
To succeed as a model, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This means eating a healthy and balanced diet, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly. Models need to have a fit and toned physique, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help you achieve this.
It’s also important to take care of your skin, hair, and overall appearance. Models need to have flawless skin and healthy hair, so make sure to follow a skincare and haircare routine that works for you. You should also maintain good personal hygiene and keep your nails clean and groomed.
5. Stay Professional and Positive
As a model, it’s important to stay professional and positive at all times. Modeling can be a competitive and challenging industry, and you may face rejection or criticism. However, it’s important to stay positive and focus on your goals. Maintain a professional attitude when working with clients and agencies, and always be punctual and prepared for jobs.
It’s also important to stay humble and open to feedback. Listen to feedback from clients and agencies and use it to improve your skills and performance.
6. Networking and Building Relationships
Networking and building relationships is crucial in the modeling industry. Attend industry events, fashion shows, and other modeling-related events to meet other models, photographers, and industry professionals. Building relationships with other professionals in the industry can help you get noticed and open up new opportunities.
It’s also important to maintain good relationships with your modeling agency and clients. Stay in touch with your agency and keep them updated on your availability and any changes to your portfolio or look. Build a good rapport with clients and maintain good communication to ensure a successful working relationship.
Nigeria’s Best 10 Modeling Agencies:
Nigeria’s leading modeling agencies collaborate with both local and international fashion designers to showcase their brands, which have gained popularity in the fashion industry.
Below are the top ten modeling agencies in Nigeria.
1. Silverbird Group
Silverbird Group, founded by Senator Murray Ben Bruce in 1980, has become Nigeria’s biggest and most accomplished modeling agency, working with international companies throughout Africa. They organize the renowned pageant programs, Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) and Mr. Nigeria. In 2001, Agbani Darego, who was crowned Most Beautiful in Nigeria, went on to represent the country and win the Miss World competition.
2. Identical Media
Identical Media, one of Nigeria’s top 10 modeling agencies, has been in business for ten years and has helped many models achieve success. They collaborate with major entertainment and fashion firms in Nigeria and other African countries, promoting fashion businesses, events, musicians, and celebrities. The agency is headquartered in Surulere, Lagos and also signs contracts with models.
3. Pillars and Pride of Africa Model and Talent Management
Pillars and Pride of Africa Model and Talent Management is an excellent choice for starting a modeling career. They actively seek out exceptional male and female models, and as long as you have the right look, their doors are open to you. The agency’s unique selling point is that you don’t need to be a professional or have any prior experience to be signed under their banner.
4. Exquisite Models International
Exquisite Models International is one of Nigeria’s top female-only modeling agencies, with connections to booming fashion firms across Africa that can help you achieve your dream of becoming a supermodel if you’re signed under their management. Even if you’re not an expert in modeling, the agency can assist you in developing your skills to international standards.
5. Fashion Instinct Modeling Agency
Fashion Instinct Modeling Agency is an excellent choice for those interested in pursuing a career as a runway model. The agency showcases models and provides training and development opportunities for aspiring models. With a focus on runway modeling, this agency is a reliable and respected business with years of experience in commercial modeling and fashion trends.
6. X-ray Models
X-ray Models can help you achieve your dream of becoming a world-class supermodel. This agency’s remarkable feature is their collaborations with international brands, giving their models the opportunity to work with fashion brands both in and outside of Africa. As an aspiring model, this would be an excellent opportunity for you, especially if you’re just starting out.
7. Looks and More
Looks and More is a modeling agency with some of Nigeria’s most stunning female and male models. If you’re confident that you have the right physique for modeling and are attractive, the agency’s management may select you. Working with this agency would give you the opportunity to promote major fashion labels, walk down numerous runways, and even meet celebrities.
8. Pflamez Entertainment
Pflamez Entertainment is a Nigerian company that organizes pageantry shows, including the annual Miss VIP Nigeria pageant. The company also grooms models apart from conducting pageants.
9. Brendance and Crusader Limited
Brendance and Crusader Limited is another modeling agency that hosts Nigeria’s International Supermodel, an annual pageant show. Models are selected from the show to join the agency, but participation in the show isn’t necessary to be part of the agency.
10. Elite Model Look
Elite Model Look is a renowned Nigerian modeling company that has gained recognition on the international stage. The company is owned by BETH Model Management, which is a much larger modeling agency in the global market. Elite Model Look conducts a pageant for female models.
Benefits of Being a Supermodel:
The benefits of being a supermodel can be summarized as follows:
1. Potential to earn significant income: Successful supermodels have the potential to earn a lot of money through lucrative modeling contracts, endorsements, and other related activities.
2. Increased fame and influence as a global ambassador: Supermodels have a large following and fan base that can be leveraged to promote various causes and brands. They also have the power to influence the public opinion and social trends.
3. Access to exclusive designer clothing, shoes, and accessories: Supermodels have access to the latest and most exclusive fashion trends, and are often the first to wear new designer collections.
4. Personalized fitness and nutrition support: Supermodels are required to maintain a certain body type and physique, and thus have access to personalized fitness and nutrition support to help them achieve their goals.
5. Opportunity to pursue a passion and love for modeling: Supermodels have the opportunity to pursue their passion and love for modeling and use it to build a successful career.
6. Travel to exciting locations and meet prominent individuals: Supermodels often travel to various locations for photo shoots, fashion shows, and other related events. This provides them with the opportunity to meet prominent individuals and experience new cultures.
Although the modeling industry is often associated with glamour and luxury, the reality is that it’s not all glitz and glamour.
While top models who work for global brands can make a lot of money, the vast majority of models struggle to make ends meet.
Downsides of Pursuing a Career in Modeling
1. Unstable Income: As a beginner, the work may be irregular, and you may not make a lot of money.
2. Demanding Profession: Modeling is a highly competitive and cutthroat industry that can take a toll on your physical, mental, and emotional health.
3. Strict Beauty Standards: Maintaining a slim and healthy physique is an essential part of a model’s job. This often means adhering to strict diets and exercise regimens and spending long hours standing or posing for the camera.
4. Rejection: Rejection is a common and often painful aspect of the modeling industry, and it can be difficult to handle constant criticism.
5. Exploitation: Some people in the industry may try to take advantage of models, leading to exposure to scams and other fraudulent activities.
Modelling Rates in Nigeria
Models who participate in runway events typically earn between ₦50,000 to ₦150,000 per show, while commercial models who feature in billboard and TV advertisements earn between ₦150,000 to ₦500,000 per campaign.
Top Male Models in Nigeria
• Alexx Ekubo
• Ebuka Obi-Uchendu
• Uti Nwachukwu
• IK Ogbonna
• Fredrick Leonard
• Victor Ndigwe
• Davidson Obennebo
• Leonardo Taiwo
• Akintayo Ogunkoya
• Seun Balogun
Top Female Models in Nigeria
• Agbani Darego
• Anna Banner
• Tacha Akide
• Sylvia Nduka
• Sandra Okagbue
• Iheoma Nnadi
• Olajumoke Orisaguna
• Yaya Dacosta
• Aminat Ayinde
• Adeola Ariyo
• Chinenye Akinlade
• Oluchi Onweagba
• Omawunmi Akinnifesi
