How to Make Your Mark Among Male Fashion Models

Signature walk. Most fashion models make their mark through their signature walks. If you want to do well in the modeling industry and last long, you have to create your own character and market your image to the clients. Do you remember Derek Zoolander's (Ben Stiller) trade secret “blue steel” pose and his “spiky black hair”? How about his inability to turn 90° left and he instead turns 270° right?

If you've got that kind of spice in you, you can definitely be a fashion model. However, if you think that it is all just about having a handsome face, better think twice, my dear. It is a competitive world where you can be the hot thing now and the who's-that later. To be a male fashion model is simple. All you have to have is good looks, stage or camera presence, sense of style and character, and of course, a good body. On the other hand, if you want to be a known and respected male fashion model, then you have to top all of these qualities with dedication and discipline.

To start your career as a male fashion model, you've got to have a modeling agency or casting agent. You usually get your jobs through them. Male fashion models appear on advertisement campaigns, TV commercials, brochures, fashion shows and billboards. Which type of work is assigned to you depends on your modeling agent.

You need first to provide your portfolio, or a compilation of your sample photographs, to different modeling agencies in the world. You can directly send them your portfolio, personally deliver them, or register online. The pictures will be the basis on how potential clients will judge you. There are also what they call “model mug shots”, where no pose is needed. Just a simple shot of you with swim wear on. This is to see your body from different angles.

If you've got more time, you can also go to open calls. These are calls where aspiring models are invited for an interview. Be sure you wear simple clothes in order for them to determine if you are adaptable to different fashion pieces. So fill yourself with confidence and take your first step towards becoming a professional male fashion model.