Chapter One: What Is Commercial Modeling?

Praise for "How to Become a Successful Commercial Model"

What are Commercial Models Used For?

Every day you see commercial models in many different types of ads. They appear in newspapers, catalogs, magazines, editorials, (photos shown in conjunction with an article in a magazine), brochures, on posters, billboards, sides of buses, packages of food items, household products, on the Internet, etc.

The commercial model is the silent salesperson promoting a product or company. He or she has to act without words.

To even be considered as a fashion model you must have very specific physical requirements. Normally female fashion models are between 5’9” and 6’ tall, have a 34-size bust, 24-inch waist and a 34-inch hip. Some markets outside of the United States will allow the models to be a little shorter. Male fashion models are normally 69 to 6920 tall and wear a size 40 regular jacket.

Commercial models, on the other hand, need only to have the ability to look like a real person. In commercial modeling people of all heights, weights, sizes, ages, and races are hired. Fashion models normally promote high-end designer clothes; commercial models advertise everything else.

The commercial model connects the client, product and the consumer. A client is the person whose product needs to be advertised. Usually, the client hires an ad agency to produce an ad, the ad agency hires the photographer, and either the art/creative director from the ad agency or photographer hires the commercial model through the model’s agent.

How Much Do Commercial Models Earn?

The fees are different from city to city and job to job. Adult commercial models can expect to make anywhere from $50 to $250 an hour depending on the market. Children are paid less than adults, but can earn up to $75 an hour. There is no way of knowing how much one can earn. I know a commercial model who earned $50,000 from one job, and I know people who have made $2,000 for an entire year.

Most people do not realize that commercial modeling is like any other kind of business. Before entering this or any industry, you must do your homework. You must learn about the types of photos that will get you the most work. You must understand what agents do and know how to make sure you are working with a reputable and honest agent. You must know what is expected of you as a professional model and learn how to practice before entering the business. Certainly, the people who have done their research and have gotten the needed information will have the greatest chance for success.

What Does It Take to Make It as a Commercial Model?

The best way to get work as a commercial model is to learn some acting skills, be self-motivated, and have the time to accept work.

How Do Models Get Work?

Although this process is explained in greater detail later in the book, the short answer is that agents can mail models’ composite sheets (a collection of photos), post photos on their Web sites or even e-mail individual images directly to a photographer or art/creative director, and they decide which model to hire for the job. Sometimes models audition for the job by attending a go-see. This is when models go to a photographer’s studio or casting office and audition in person.

What Are the Advantages to Working as a Commercial Model?

As I mentioned earlier there are no physical limitations to being a commercial model. Most people do commercial modeling on a part-time basis. It is not only so much fun to be shot by a professional photographer, but it is also thrilling to see yourself or your child in a magazine, newspaper, billboard or poster. The hours are extremely flexible, and the fees paid to commercial models are incredible.

What Are the Disadvantages?

There is no guarantee that there will be steady work. That is why most people work part-time. There are no health benefits, and no money is withheld from your checks for tax purposes. You are responsible for paying taxes on all income.

What Does It Take to Get Started?

A person can get started by simply having a head shot taken. In the book I explain how to get photos taken free as well as how to find professional photographers to shoot your head shots. Depending on the area, one can have a head shot taken and begin trying to get work for about $350. Finding agents to submit your head shot for jobs would be the next best step. It is important to get experience working in front of a camera before trying to work in a major market.

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