How to Become a Catalog Model

How to Become a Catalog ModelHow to Become a Catalog ModelCatalog modeling isnt what it used to be. Thanks to a little something called the Internet, catalog models are mora valuable than ever. Theyre in shoppers mailboxes of course (print catalogs arent going anywhere anytime soon), but theyre also taking over the digital world. Mobile, desktop and everything in between- wherever the shoppers are, catalog models are there too. All of this increased exposure means catalog modeling is more exciting and lucrative than ever before. But how do you go about landing a job as a catalog model? Here are a few things youre probably wondering. What Brands Are Looking For Catalog models are considered to be commercial models, which means models need to look more like real people than vorwort models. They do need to possess a few basic physical attributes, such as glowing skin, healthy hair, and a killer smile, but instead of falling into the physical requirements of fashion models, they inst ead have to have a look that appeals to the clients target audience. Depending on the catalog, this could mean the client is looking for short, tall, young, old, thin or plus-size models of diverse ethnicities. Theres even a demand for models with disabilities. In other words, if youre not suited to a particular catalog, dont fret There are plenty of other catalogs to try for. You just have to find one that suits your look (as opposed to changing your look to suit a certain catalog). Another option to keep in mind is parts modeling. If you have an outstanding body part, such as your hands, legs, or feet, you may be able to enter the world of catalog modeling as a parts model. How Much Catalog Models Get Paid How much you make as a catalog model depends on so many factors, such as the agency youre signed with (different agencies deduct different fees, usually anywhere from 10% to 20%), your experience level, and the catalog youre shooting for. In general, you can expect to earn a few hundred dollars for a small-scale catalog shoot to ten thousand dollars or more for a popular international catalog. Established catalog models can earn a very good living from catalog work alone, given the sheer volume of photos that need to be taken and the fact that catalog shoots can take days, weeks, or even months to complete. Dont forget that in the United States, models are considered to be self-employed. That means youll need to set aside about a third of each paycheck to cover your income taxes. Jumpstarting a Career The great thing about the modeling industry today is that you dont have to be defined by a particular style of modeling. Many catalog models are also runway or editorial models, and vice versa. As well, many models have used catalog work to jumpstart their careers. David Gandy spent years working as a catalog model, and even supermodel Karen Elson had a brief stint as a catalog model before she made it big. All of this crossing over of divisions gives catalogs a cool factor and makes them all the more appealing to the masses, which is something catalogs have come to depend on for their success. Models and Agencies Most of the major brands in the United States only work with companyapproved modeling agencies in major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. Catalogs are expensive and time-consuming to shoot, and clients want to feel confident that theyre booking professional models who will show up on time and get the job done right. As a model, being signed to an agency means youll not only have access to more catalog modeling opportunities but also that the jobs you do book will be legitimate and that youll be paid what you deserve. Its win-win