Has anyone modeled?

In My Humble Opinion
1

I’m thinking about doing some modeling. I’m a poor student and could use some extra money, though I have no interest in making a career out of it. I see two problems:

  1. I would have to lose weight. I’m 5’11" and 140 lbs. and am perfectly happy with my figure. For fashion modeling, I would have to lose 10-20 lbs. I don’t know if I could or would want to do this.

  2. I’m 28, which is over-the-hill in the modeling biz. I don’t know if the agencies would consider someone starting out at my age. At least people tell me I look younger.

Am I wrong about what modeling agencies require? Any tips on how to get started? I’m thinking I should have a photographer friend take some photos and send them out to all the New York agencies. (I live in New York, by the way.)

Your advice is appreciated. Rant about the modeling industry’s beauty standards if you must. I find it completely ridiculous, which is why I’ve avoided modeling all along.

2

You should try to find a “plus size” modeling agency. I realize that at 5’11" and 140 lbs, you’re not plus-sized. I’d guess you’re about a size 9 or 10. But that’s pretty much the right size for a plus-size model.

Also, your age matters less in the plus-size biz. They’re much more open to slightly older models.

Sorry, I’m not sure of which agencies to go to. Check out an issue of Mode magazine to see great examples of plus-sized models. They sometimes mention which agencies the models are from. I seem to remember that Elite has a plus-sized division.

Good luck!

3

Plus size?! Yikes! I’m a size 7/8 - doesn’t “plus size” mean at least a size 14? Maybe I should gain some weight!

4

Wow! I am 5’5 and a size nine, and while I’m not a skinny girl, I’m pretty darn small. I can’t believe that I would count as “plus size”.

Crazy place, this world is.