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Answering a Reader Question #242

Erica Wrote:


Hey! I'm Erica!
i wanted to know if i had a chance to be a VS model, im 15 and around 1.70 m, weigh 53kg and i have an exotic look.
What can i do? i don't live in the US but I'm going to visit in a bit. Maybe ill check out some agencies, how can i get their attention? and also what are some good tips?
Thank you :)) 

Hi, Erica! Unfortunately, you are shorter than the minimum height requirement for VS modeling and too young as well. VS models must be least 18 years of age so you'd have to wait a while even if you were the height they wanted. VS requires potential models to be the same height range that traditional high fashion and runway models are, which is 1.73 m (minimum) but your weight is ideal so you don't have to worry about that.

You are allowed to send in your photos to modeling agencies in the USA by email, submitting your pictures through their website or by attending an open casting call. If an agency is interested in you, they'll invite you for an interview. However, if you're overseas in your home country, you'll have to pay the costs related to airfare, hotel, etc. The agencies will not cover these expenses.

Although VS is not a possibility for you at this time, that doesn't mean you can't still pursue modeling in your own country. There are many legit and reputable agencies in countries all over the world. At your height, you are ideal for commercial/print modeling and teen modeling because of your age, so it is important to look up the websites of agencies within 2 hours from where you live that have one or both types of modeling divisions. See what their specific requirements are and what types of photos and information they want.

Some tips:

- Only submit yourself for agencies whose requirements you meet. Period.

- Visit all the agency websites you come across and find out what types of pictures each one wants and THEN go about preparing your images. For example, you don't need professional pictures or a portfolio established if you're a new/inexperienced model. 9 times out of 10, many agency websites state clearly that they prefer non-professional, digital snapshots from new models. Follow each agency's instructions for submission carefully because they don't all want the same thing.

- Attending open calls (if the agency has them) is better than sending your images by mail or email because it puts you in front of the agency staff face-to-face. This gives them the chance to know your personality and not just by looking at a photo.

- In your non-professional, digital snapshots you should not wear makeup. Be all natural, including your hair, which should be pulled away from your face.

- Only include the materials each agency asks for...no more, no less. Not following the rules will get your submission thrown away or deleted from their email inbox.

- Since you are underage, you will need to have a parent/guardian present with you at all times, including going to an open call, modeling agency interview, photoshoots, etc. That is the law in the USA, not sure about other countries' policies.
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