In modern society, men are becoming more fashion conscious
and more occupied with how they look, including grooming, clothing and
accessories. This translates into more work for male models.
If you want to be a male model you should start out by
taking some test shots to see how you come across photographically, and also to
find out if you enjoy the experience. Some people clam or tense up when a
camera is pointed at them, and you need to be able to look relaxed and calm
even when a whole modelling shoot team is focussed on you.
As you would expect, male models are generally expected to
be muscular, fit and toned. However, they should not be overly muscley, as the
body builder’s physique has relatively limited appeal. The exception is male
sports models, who tend to have very well defines bodies. As fashions change,
there is more call for more slender males and even those with an androgynous
look.
Male models need to have the right combination of body
shape, stamina, resilience and the right attitude. Male models are usually aged
between 18- 25, although there is call for younger and more mature models for
certain products.
As with any modelling, if you want to make it as a male
model, location is really important. You need to be where the studios, agencies
and clients are and you need to be available to turn up to casting at short
notice. In practise this means being based in London, preferably, but if that’s
not possible, then being near any major city centre is a must.
Freelance modelling is becoming a more popular option, which
means you can cut out the agency fees and keep more of your hard earned cash
for yourself. However, freelance modelling does involve a lot more legwork and
running the business side of being self-employed.
Most modelling agencies work with both male and female models, though generally they will have fewer male than female models on their
books.
