Plus Size Modeling: An Introduction
Plus size modeling is a growing industry that is gaining
popularity and acceptance throughout the world. Because plus
size models and modeling has gained popularity in the last ten
years, the opportunities have broadened considerable, but all
modeling shoots for a plus size model are not the same. Plus
size models will discover major differences between shoots,
whether operating as a free agent or with representation and
between different markets.
When you decide you want to try plus size modeling, you need to consider whether you want
or can get representation right away, or if you want to act as a
free agent. Finding representation can get you into many doors,
but in some cases, if you are just starting out, you may want to
be a free agent and market yourself to build your portfolio and
get experience.
Finding representation can be challenging. You'll need some
photos of yourself and you may need to try several agencies
before you find the right one. Some agents want to see
professional headshots, while others prefer a simple Polaroid.
In many cases, they prefer to see your "raw material" and then
they'll help you find and cultivate a desirable plus size model
"look." If you find representation, you should remember that the
agent is working for you but you still need to take an active
interest in your own modeling career. You should know what kinds
of jobs they are promoting you for and why you are or are not
getting jobs.
As a free agent you may have more flexibility, but you'll need
to carefully protect yourself and make sure you're booking
legitimate, paying jobs. Regardless of your status, you should
constantly seek feedback, and do your best not to take it
personally. Consider yourself a product that will be effective
selling a product, or not. You may need to alter your look, gain
weight, tone up or change your hair to be more marketable. Make
sure you remember on thing; you won't be right for every job no
matter what you do.
If you want to be a plus size model, you do need to consider
that there are different kinds of plus size modeling and
different markets for different sizes. Here is an interesting
guide to some of the different markets and needs for plus size
models.
Plus Size Lingerie Modeling: Really good plus size lingerie
models are hard to find. Not only are companies and agencies
looking for well proportioned and sexy women from sizes 10 to
18, they are also looking for toned, curvy bodies that will
really make their photos pop! In many cases, a plus size lingerie
photo shoot will also be different than that of a catalog or
fashion shoot. They may want sensual, sexy or even playful moods
and you need to be comfortable with your body and your sexuality
to project the right feelings.
Plus size catalog photo shoots for clothing are very different
than plus size lingerie modeling. Most companies are looking for
plus size models that are from sizes 10 to 18 with well
proportioned bodies, pretty faces and positive, professional
attitudes. Since plus size clothing is designed to flatter
fuller figures, you may not have to worry about being as toned
as for plus size lingerie. In many cases, these shoots are more
about smiling, laughing, and being active. If you are modeling
plus size swimwear or active-wear, you may need to have a more
toned physique.
Plus size fashion shoots will always favor the prepared.
Although you may or may not be showing a lot of skin, couture
plus size fashion will fit better and look better if you are
well toned and filling out the clothes in all the right places.
Additionally, high fashion is frequently made of higher end
silks and satins which are less forgiving than cottons and
knits. With strong abs and smooth lines that show off your
gorgeous curves, a fashion house or magazine will be far more
likely to book you again.
Finally, different geographic markets call for different sized
plus size models. For instance, the UK market favors sizes 12
and 14, American client's book specific sizes anywhere from 10
to 18 while the Italian market targets sizes 12 to 16. Markets
like South America are just introducing plus models while the
German market still favors sizes 8 to 12.
One unifying factor is certainly attitude. If you are a go
getter who arrives at every shoot upbeat and prepared to work,
you are more likely to be a successful plus size model. The plus size models that realty stand out
are always well groomed and ready to slip into whatever role
they are called on to perform. Whether portraying a confident
business woman or a sexy siren the most successful plus size
models glow with inner confidence. The best plus models know
that they are sexy and beautiful because of their curves, not in
spite of them.