Modeling After 40: Getting Started Later in Life
GUEST AUTHOR: BROOKE FROM RED MODELS & TALENT IN BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA
It is achievable and possible; however, it is very important to research the market you are in and be realistic. The two we most often deal with in the Birmingham area are print and commercial modeling. Your typical paid runway fashion modeling jobs are minimal in the Alabama market. If you are interested in fashion/runway modeling, you will most likely need to submit to a larger market such as Atlanta, New York, and/or Miami.
There are agencies here in Alabama that will help develop you and submit you to larger markets; however, the paid work for fashion/runway models in this market is minimal. Also, with fashion/runway modeling, you need to start early. This is not something you can typically break into later in life.
Commercials and print are a great way to break into the industry later in life because the industry as a whole is catering to a growing market that seeks representation of talent with diverse looks at all stages of life.
Agency Representation
When submitting to an agency for the initial application, they will usually ask for a few recent photos with your application. Make sure the photos are well lite, with a non-busy background. No filters as well as using natural make up is always the best approach.
If a modeling agency does not get back with you, do not take it personally. They can receive hundreds of applications a month. And, if you do not get asked to come in for an interview, a lot of times, it can simple mean the agency already has a lot of talent on their roster with your current look at the moment.
If it is an agency you truly want to be with, submit to them again in 6 months.
When you do get with an agency, you will have to get professional photos taken. Make sure to research your photographer and get references for a modeling photographer. Not a headshot/actor photographer.
Next Steps
Remember, it takes time to get booked. Your agent’s job is to submit you for jobs that you qualify for as a model/actor and the casting director chooses from those submissions.
Should you get asked for an audition, the casting director saw you as a person of interest for the role.
Remember, it is a numbers game. You will not book every audition; however, you will get better at the process each time.
Final Thoughts
Talent, in general, should always look for ways to maintain and improve their craft because your competition is. Take acting lessons which will improve your focus and stamina as both an actor as well as a model. You can do it!
