One of the biggest mistakes aspiring models make is not being prepared. Some novice models show up for their appointment after a night of partying, unaware of how physically and mentally demanding a photo shoot can be.

Others forget to bring their portfolio, leave their modeling kit at home or don't bother to find out about the agency or client they're working for. Worst of all, they have no idea what to do when they're in front of a camera. This careless attitude can make you look unprofessional, unmotivated and therefore unemployable.

To prepare, simply try to get a good night's sleep and make sure you have everything you need. It's also important to do your homework: immerse yourself in the world of modeling and learn from experienced, successful models.

Let magazines be your guide
The easiest and most fun way to learn modeling is to spend time with your favorite fashion magazines. As you flip through the pages of these publications, which are the bible of fashion, study the models and observe their poses. Memorize and practice their poses and learn to imitate the emotions they express.

Get to know the designers and photographers and write down the models' names. As an exercise, cut out pages with your favorite photos and practice what you see. Keep practicing until you've perfected your emotion, pose and expression. Soon you'll have the confidence to pose easily in front of a camera.

Stay away from so-called "fashion" magazines, which only feature celebrities. They're interesting to read, but if you really want your research to be useful, limit yourself to legitimate high-fashion magazines that use real models. The best fashion magazines for learning rarely need to be shown to anyone interested in modeling.

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Vogue magazine
If you had to choose models from just one magazine, it would be Vogue. Arguably the world's most influential fashion magazine, Vogue has been setting fashion standards for over a century and is the world's best-selling fashion magazine, with editions all over the world, such as Italian Vogue and British Vogue.

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Elle magazine
With 44 editions worldwide, Elle is a must-have fashion publication. It's strong, energetic and exciting, covering all the latest trends direct from the catwalks of New York, London, Milan and Paris.

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Harper's Bazaar
America's leading fashion magazine has style, panache, sophistication and provocation. Harper's Bazaar features the latest trends, designers, fashion shows and events. Events range from casual to haute couture. Be sure to check out the digital version for exclusive model interviews, behind-the-scenes videos, editorial previews, cover photos and much more.

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W Magazine
This popular (and sometimes controversial) magazine presents the who, what, where, when and why of style and fashion around the world. What sets W apart are its glossy, oversized pages, which feature the world's hottest models, designers and fashion events.

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L'Officiel Magazine
This international luxury fashion and lifestyle magazine has been around for over 90 years. It offers the ultimate in French elegance, haute couture talent and fascinating editorials. Based in Paris, L'Officiel is published in over 20 countries, including Italy, Russia, China, Singapore, Brazil and Azerbaijan.

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Jalouse magazine
Jalouse is the latest addition, but that doesn't mean we should underestimate its power. It's the sister publication to the hugely popular L'Officiel, and offers a more avant-garde, grittier and edgier take on fashion than some of its mainstays.

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GQ Magazine
Launched in 2005, GQ Style is a dynamic, diverse and avant-garde men's fashion magazine. It's only published twice a year, but it's well worth the wait. If you can't wait, you can always browse the content online to get your fix of fashion galleries, videos and articles.

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L'Officiel Hommes
This biannual magazine, adapted from L'Officiel, is entirely devoted to fashion and presents the season's trends very well. Created by a stylist, not a journalist, it has become one of the world's leading men's fashion references.