Modelling is a glamorous profession. The past few years have seen an upsurge of interest in modelling as a serious career option. In India until recently it was considered at best a part time occupation for students to earn a little pocket-money and for beauty queens and aspiring actresses waiting for a break in films. This perception has only lately begun to change. Models like Namrata Sirodkar, Madhu Sapre, Sushmita Sen, Aishwarya Rai, Manpreet Brar, Priyanka Chopra, Diya Mirza and Lara Dutt have placed India firmly on the international modelling map. The recent hike in advertising budgets of major companies by an unprecedented 30 to 50 percent has also given a tremendous boost to this glamorous career.
While this career was once open only to women, men have now began to make an impact. Opportunities are still somewhat loaded in favour of female models but show promise of opening up for men. Men’s fashions have become big business. Some advertisers prefer to show pairs - a man and a woman to appeal both sexes.
TYPES OF MODELLING:-
(1) RAMP MODELLING:-
Ramp modelling means doing the catwalk at a fashion show to display designer collections. Naturally all aspirants need above average height coupled with a proportionate body, poise, grace and the right attitude. Self-assurance, spontaneity, presence of mind and the ability to vibe with the audience are needed. These models should be efficient enough to change dresses and accessories with minimum fuss and time. A graceful, coordinated rhythmic walk is a very basic requirement for models on the catwalk.
Male models vying for ramp modeling assignments should ideally be six feet and above in height and female models at least five feet six inches and above.
(2) ADVERTISEMENT CAMPAIGNS:
Both electronic and print media require a photogenic face and the ability to emote in front of the camera. Print media involves posing for still photographs used in press advertisements, folders, brochures, calenders etc. The electronic media includes commercials for television, video, films, radio, internet etc.
The age requirement varies according to the content of Ad campaigns. Household products and welfare schemes for instance, generally concentrate on the family unit. Hence models of all age groups may feature in such ad campaigns.
(3)THE SHOW ROOM:
Export house garment manufacturer or large clothing retailer are the place where models work as mannequins wearing finished designs to display their cut, drape and workmanship to buyers.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS :
Model should have
1. above average height- Males should be above six feet & Females at least 5 feet six inches tall.
2. have a photogenic face, perfect skin, hair and teeth, good health and stamina.
3. must be hard working, self confident and energetic.
CAREER PROSPECTS:-
Successful models find constant work in product advertising, in fashion shows for designers, export houses, clothing manufacturers and textile companies, showroom and garment fairs with export houses and garment manufacturers. Model also work on a free lance or contract basis.
REMUNERATION:-
Professional modelling is a lucrative career. Earnings are high though dependent on the volume and frequency of assignments as on a individual’s popularity ratings. An
Established model can earn on an average Rs. 20,000 to 30,000 a month.
LENGTH OF CAREER & DIVERSIFICATION :-
If models are watchful of their diet exercise sleep and grooming, they can hope for a long innings of as many as 10 years. After a successful career models can divert their expertise, to model coordination or set up modelling agencies. Another popular option is to carve a niche in the world of the small screen. Today we are discovering a new role for models on TV- as anchor persons on show biz programmes, talk shows, as comperes and even as actors or actresses.
COURSE/TRAINING & FEES:-
Looking at the high visibility of this career, wide ranging opportunities and emerging popularity, many modeling schools have come all over the country especially in Delhi and Bombay mainly by ex-models. Modeling schools charge fees ranging upward of Rs .5000 per programme including guidance on make-up, hair-styling, dressing, grooming, tips on the right diet and exercise regimen. Some schools also supplement the programme with personality development tips and guide aspirants on how to approach advertising agencies.
Before stepping into the highly unpredictable and glamorous world, one should study oneself objectively and then take the plunge. No school can create what isn’t there. They can at best, hone or develop inherent qualities and attitudes. ‘Gladrags’ promotes modelling models in India and abroad through competitions.
MODELLING SCHOOLS & AGENCIES :
Some of the leading modelling schools and agencies in India are :
Face-1 : Headed by super model Mehr Jessia, 797, Jesia Building, Jam-e-Jamshedji Rd., Parsi Colony, Dadar, Mumbai-400014, Tel-4149968/4126878.
TSG Worldwide Model & Promotion Agency : Orient House, 4th Floor, Adi Marzban Path, Mumbai-400038,Tel-2616732,2615029.
The Tina Factor: C-31, 1st Floor, Defence Colony, New Delhi – 110029, Tel.4690213.
Catwalk : K-40, Hauz Khas, Enclave, New Delhi.
The Ramp : A-22, Gulmohar Park, New Delhi-110049.
Glitz : F-100, Lajpat Nagar-II, New Delhi-110029, Tel-6830921.
Aditi Modelling Service : 324, Upper Palace, Orchand, Bangalaore-560080, Tel-3342518.
Passion : EC 191, Sector-1, Salt Lake, Calcutta, Tel-3593502/3346319.
For latest information one can log on to one of the web-sites named www.fashionindia.net ,devoted to modelling. Contact email – models@fashionindia.net
ELIGIBILITY FOR ADMISSION:
No special qualifications are required for entry. Those joining as models need to be young, ready to start between the ages of 16 to 18. It is not necessary to be extremely beautiful but should be photogenic. Modelling is a promising career
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