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Answering a Reader Question #104

Maureen Wrote:


I'm 24 years old and I'm Panamainian. I've been told for most of my life that I could be a model, but I'm only 5'3. Despite my age I look 18. I wonder if I would be any good in the modeling industry? 

Hi, Maureen! Realistically speaking with the standards of the industry as they stand right now, your best shot is going to be doing petite modeling and/or parts modeling. At your age it is highly unlikely that you'll get taller, which means that agencies won't be as likely to sign you for commercial/print work (the minimum height requirement for this type of work is 5'5", although exceptional 5'4" models have been able to get lucky). Parts modeling is a great field to get into if you're able to find a good agency to market you and clients often use petite models for this type of work.

Agency representation is the best way to legitimately get into the industry, however, you do have the option of pursuing freelance work. But freelance modeling comes with its own set of challenges that not many people want to deal with, which is why they hope to sign with a modeling agency.

Your youthful appearance is an advantage. There are some instances where older models that look much younger (and in some cases were shorter) were able to do teen modeling. But that is a rare exception that doesn't happen every day. But I will say that when it comes to agencies you should do your best to exhaust all your possibilities if this is a path that you want to pursue.

I hope that helps and I wish you the best of luck, whether you decide to pursue modeling or not.

Comments

Anonymous said…
At least commercial print is dropped to the minimum height of 5'5". Before it was 5'6". It looks like there's been changes.
Anonymous said…
Hello Dania...
Very useful Post but can u tell me where to start from..m also 5'4"
and of 22 yrs old...
Dania Denise said…
Hello, Anonymous!

Based on your age and height you are ideal for commercial/print/lifestyle modeling. As far as where to start, you can check out the link below to help you learn what steps should be taken for those starting in the modeling industry:

http://amodelsdiary.blogspot.com/p/where-do-you-start-in-modeling.html

I hope that helps and thank you for being a reader!

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