Modelling, a "glamorous" career that we all are familiar with. The initial images when you think about it might be tall, slim girls walking on the ramp with alluring clothes, accessories and magnificent makeup. Consequently, we might have had many doubts and prejudices surfacing in our minds. Some of the most common ones would be;
“All models do is walk around being pretty.”,“It’s easy money. Just pose and they are given millions.”,“Beauty is the only thing that matters when it comes to modelling.”,“Models have to be super thin if you want to make a successful career out of it.”,etc etc... Well, we are here to tell you that there’s more to it than what meets the eyes.
Myth #1
“YOU HAVE TO BE TALL IN ORDER TO BE A MODEL”
This might be one of the most famous myths we all have heard. However, let’s clarify this situation. There is no specific height requirement for models. It is true that some agencies demand a minimum height and weight requirement for catwalk models. Even so, that’s not something to discourage your passion with. There are many other spheres of modelling such as magazines, commercials, clothing, photoshoot, etc which don't give any emphasis on changing who you are.
Myth #2
“ALL MODELS MUST BE SKINNY”
Here goes a BIG FAT NO! Just because you want to be a model doesn't necessarily mean you need to be a bag of bones. Modelling is open to people of all shapes and sizes. In fact, let's not forget about the enchanting ‘plus size’ category.
Myth#3
“A PRETTY FACE IS ALL THAT MATTERS”
Smokey eyes, full lips, straight nose, a perfectly proportioned face. We agree these features are quite pretty. Nonetheless, so are your high forehead, thick eyebrows, doe eyes and tiny moles. There are many models who made their unique characteristics their trademark. For example, Cara Delevingne and her eyebrows are a sensation to the fashion world. Why can’t you mold your signature then?
Myth#4
“MODELLING IS EASY MONEY”
Like every other profession, models also start off with an average salary. As time progresses, they get a pay rise considering their experience and how good they are at what they do. Nobody gets to make a fortune in an instant. Like the quote sayssay, hard work pays off in the end.
Myth #5
“ALL MODELS HAVE TO GO ON EXTREME DIET”
Yes, there may be hardships when it comes to pursuing your passion. However starving yourself is NOT one of them. As this is a highly demanding profession, there may be many situations that will drain you. With no proper working hours, way too much standing and posing, spending hours practising… sounds hectic, right? In order to have a proper lifestyle, it is essential to keep up with a nutritious diet. Stay healthy, above all! That's our advice.
Myth#6
“MODELS GET TO KEEP THE OUTFIT”
We can wish all we want, but it’s a no. The clothes and accessories belong to the designer, thus, as soon as the models are done with them, it’s returned to its rightful owner, ie, designers/brands.
Occasionally, they get to keep some things, but it depends on how established you are in this career. Eg. Many supermodels are gifted designer brand outfits for brand promotion via social media.
Myth#7
“MODELS ARE JUST BEAUTY AND NO BRAINS”
Just like any other profession, modelling also requires lots of skill, talent and intelligence. In fact, let's not ignore the fact that there are a lot of models who are also doctors, business women, lawyers, software developers, etc. Neither are they porcelain dolls nor dumb. And they are more than just beautiful humans.
Myth#8
“THE AGENCY TAKES CARE OF EVERY EXPENSE”
Nuh-huh. This would actually be similar to winning a lottery, to be honest. If you have the potential and if the agency returns the same vibe, yeah, they may hire you. But that doesn't mean they'll spend a fortune on you. Lets not forget that they work for their own profit and beginners would have a few additional costs as well. It's better to be well informed regarding such expenses beforehand.
Myth#9
“PREPARATION TO BECOME A MODEL MUST BEGIN AT A VERY YOUNG AGE”
A very common way of discouraging those who are into modelling. It doesn't matter if you are 14 or 27 or 32. If you have that drive inside you, anything is possible. The Canadian model Maye Musk is 69 years old and still rocking in the industry.
Myth#10
“MODELLING IS A GLAMOROUS PROFESSION”
Last but not least. This was the very first sentence of this article. If we think about the final outcome, it may sound true. The industry is a lot about glamour. However, that doesn't imply that there are no hardships. Most models have hectic work schedules, imbalanced diets, health issues, mental struggles and many more. Often, modelling is a career that takes a toll on mental health rather than physical. Let’s not forget about long hours of practising, makeovers, hairdressing, outfit fittings and many more. Nevertheless, let's agree on the fact that the final results are worth everything you’ve worked and hoped for. Modelling is more than just glamour. Its art at its finest. And like every great piece of art ever to exist, this also takes a tremendous amount of effort and time.
- Thaniya