Who has not looked at a pretty model walking down the ramp in a fashion show and envied her glamourous lifestyle? Most of us, at one point or the other in life, admired models, their poise and charm. Some of us have even wanted to be models. However, the life and career of a model is not all glam, as it looks like from the outside. Modeling is not just about having a pretty face; it is much more than that. A lot goes into the making of a model, and that is just what this article attempts to tell you about.

What it takes to be a model

The major prerequisites to becoming a fashion model are being photogenic and having an attitude. Being tall, slim and pretty are, of course, valuable assets to work with, but more important than that is being photogenic. Also, it is necessary for a model to have a confident attitude, a lot of grace and charm.

There are certain standard measurements for a fashion model that have evolved over time. The model should be tall and have a well-toned body. Commonly, female models are expected to have a height of at least 5'9", while male models should be at least 6' tall.

Ideal body measurements for females are considered to be a bust of 34", waist of 24" and hips of 34". However, nowadays, models in the plus-size category are also found. Though it is necessary that the model look well-toned and graceful, there is no standard weight that has been fixed. Usually, age does not factor much, as long as the other requirements are met; however, models in the age group of 15 to 22 are preferred at the start of a modelling career.

Fashion modelling is a highly competitive career. It would not be wrong to say that it is as demanding a career as it is lucrative. A lot of hard work, patience, dedication and strong determination are required to pursue a career in this field. A person starting out a career in fashion modelling usually has to face a lot of rejections and struggle. Hence, it is essential that the person persevere in the struggle and not give up midway.

A modelling career involves long hours in studios as well as on shoots in outdoor locations. To cope up with this hectic schedule, physical fitness is very important. It becomes mandatory to exercise regularly, eat and sleep healthy, and have a good beauty regimen in place. Physical fitness is as much a requirement in this field as is mental fitness.

Another very essential prerequisite is a highly professional attitude. A would-be model should be on time for assignments. It is necessary to be flexible and open-minded, and be accommodative to flexible timings as well as extensive travel schedules. The model might have to live alone for significant periods of time, making it necessary for him or her to be self-reliant to a great extent. Of course, willingness to live and travel alone is important. A model should have the capability to handle criticism well.

Contacts are of great importance in the field of modelling, due to which good communication and networking skills would be greatly helpful. A good sense of humour would not go amiss. Also, though it is not a prerequisite, it would be a great deal of help if the model has a bit of knowledge about acting and is camera-friendly.

A good sense of business helps the model in determining whether he or she is being justly paid for the assignments or not. Being a little business savvy would help in steering clear of exploitation.

Last, but not the least, a good sense of discretion and judgement would go a long way in a modelling career. Judgemental abilities would help the model in leading a 'model' life, avoiding excesses that the world of glamour invariably involves. A model should be able to use his discretionary powers to determine which assignments to undertake and which ones to avoid, so that his reputation is not tarnished.