Who Can Be a Model?

Many young women and men dream of conquering the modelling world, but wanting it is not enough. Model work is hard and demanding – a young woman or man has to meet high requirements, take care of themselves and develop their inner qualities. 

Why is modelling such an attractive profession?

Model work is surrounded by widespread stereotypes: a career that brings in lots of money, wild parties, meeting stylish and beautiful people and many other glamorous-looking activities. These stereotypes are far removed from reality – modelling is a hard profession that demands a great deal of effort.

It is often parents or friends who suggest trying a modelling career, telling you again and again how beautiful you are, but in the fashion industry the opinion of the people close to you is not enough. If you feel a real desire to become a model, you have to answer one essential question – what sets you apart from the countless other good-looking people?

Commercially successful models need a "marketable" look, which means that clients who are interested in you have to believe your face or body will drive demand for their product. For this reason, models must have very strong personalities, because they may often hear "no" and be told that their look is not right or that they do not meet the requirements.

What is model work?

The modelling profession is linked to selling clothes, so model work consists of taking part in clothing collection shows, designer salon presentations and various fashion shows. Model work also includes shooting advertising campaigns for magazines and billboards, photoshoots for fashion catalogues and so on. 

At what age can you start a modelling career?

In the past, younger girls could sign a contract with an agency, and agencies would invite girls from the age of 12 to become models. Times have changed, however, and girls now start pursuing a modelling career at an older age. Professional agencies send models to work abroad only with proper work documents, and different markets set different age limits. You can go to work in Europe – Milan, Paris, London – from the age of 16, but there is usually more work for over-18s, as clients tend to choose models who are over 18. The USA, Mexico, Chile and Australia only take adult models. China used to accept models aged 16, but work visas are now issued only from 18. Younger girls who are not yet 16 can legally work in Korea, Japan and Taiwan. 

How to become a model?

Models, or runway models, face very high and strict requirements because clothes are made to certain standards and only fit models who meet those standards.

Girls can become models from the age of 14, and they must be at least 170 cm tall. Boys can start a modelling career from 16, provided they are at least 185 cm tall. You can find more about model requirements and measurements here. 

If you meet the appearance requirements for models, all that is left is to choose a model agency in Lithuania and fill in the application form. 

How to become a photo model?

There is also another type of model with less demanding and less strict requirements – photo models. Photo models are not subject to age or appearance restrictions. They are commercial models needed for work in television, print and advertising. However, professional models cannot be photo models only. You can read more about the differences between models and photo models here. 

What else should I know about the modelling profession?

Model work is not one big party and showing off beautiful clothes. It requires strong motivation, the ability to combine studies and work, physical stamina and emotional resilience. The success of a modelling career depends on you – on your determination and the work you put in!

It is important to be independent and responsible. On their first modelling trip, models travel to castings and jobs on their own, and these take place at different locations in an unfamiliar city. These days this is easy with various apps (e.g. Google Maps), but if something does not go to plan, it is important not to panic and to solve the problem. Of course, your mother agency will help you, but you are responsible for planning your time, your behaviour and your choices.