The most common question asked by aspiring models to model agents and scouts is: "How do I become a fashion model?" There is so much information in books, on websites, and in model forums that it can be very confusing and overwhelming for a new model who is just starting out. Here are five simple steps to help you get started.

01 of 05
Take some basic snapshots
To start with, the only photos you need to submit to model agents and scouts are some simple snapshots. You'll want a nice photo of your face - both smiling and not smiling - a left and right profile of your face and body, a full-body photo, and a back photo. Wear fitted clothing like skinny jeans or leggings and a simple tank top or t-shirt. If you're comfortable in a swimsuit, you should also take some shots in a swimsuit; a one-piece or two-piece swimsuit is fine.

Male models should show their fitness level to agents. Therefore, it is recommended that male models wear swim trunks or boxer shorts or jeans without a shirt in at least one of their photos.

02 of 05
Get evaluated by a professional model agent or scout
Many new models start their pursuit because their family and friends have told them they should model or because they are the prettiest girl or boy in school. While that's a good start, it doesn't necessarily align with what agencies are looking for. It's important to have your potential as a model assessed by an experienced model agent or scout before investing too much time or money in your efforts. This step can be challenging because it's hard to determine whether the agent or scout evaluating you has the necessary experience and knowledge to help you.

Many new models find that they live in a smaller market where many agents are associated with a modeling school or a photography studio, so they may not receive an accurate evaluation because the agency is more interested in selling courses or photo shoots.

This doesn't mean the agent isn't good or that the courses or photo shoots they offer are bad; it just means you should think about what motivates them to tell you whether you can be a model or not.

03 of 05
Get as much exposure as possible
Many agencies specialize in specific areas. Some represent only high-fashion models (editorial models), others represent only commercial models, plus-size, petite, or child models. If one agency is unable to represent you, don't be discouraged; it's essential to be seen by as many agencies as possible and on a regular basis.

If you live in one of the major markets, you may be able to attend an open call or a go-see at the agency. If you don't live in one of the major markets, it's best to send your photos to as many agencies as possible to get noticed.

This can be a very time-consuming and costly endeavor, especially if you need to make copies of all your photos and mail them. The costs of prints, envelopes, and stamps can quickly add up to over a thousand dollars. Another option is to email your photos, but with the thousands of photos sent to model agencies every day, they can easily get lost in the shuffle.

To increase your chances of being signed by an agency, consider working with people who have experience and direct connections to agencies in various markets. Online agencies may be the most reputable and cost-effective way for you to gain the exposure you need to be seen by many agencies worldwide, and it's the quickest way to do so.

04 of 05
Know the best model market for you
The term "market" refers to the various geographic locations where models work and earn a living. New York, Los Angeles, Paris, and Tokyo are examples of major model markets. A market can also refer to the category your specific look falls into, such as fashion, commercial, plus-size, or petite.

While the supermodels you see in major magazines and on top clients' runways typically work in all markets, many successful models only work in one or two markets. If you're not represented by an agency in New York or Paris, you may very well be suitable for Tokyo, Singapore, or other Asian markets. An experienced agent can help you find the right market for your specific look.

05 of 05
Be persistent
Becoming a professional fashion model is a long process and rarely happens overnight. Even the models who say, "I was walking down the street one day, and the next day I was on the cover of Vogue," are exaggerating. Many of today's top models were not initially signed by an agency. Supermodel Gisele Bündchen was rejected over 40 times before finally being signed by an agency. Stay positive and remember: just because an agency couldn't represent you today doesn't mean they won't be interested tomorrow.