So, you’ve lately decided to try modeling…It’s never too late. But, wait. Age is a problem. Certainly, in an industry where the median age stays 23 and age diversity is nowhere in sight.
Most models begin their careers early on. Although their careers are relatively short, you can still try and be successful if you venture into modeling later in life.
Like the ’30s? Starting your modeling career at the age of 30 brings with it several challenges. However, with a well-defined career plan and the resolve to pursue your goals relentlessly, you can and will reach the path.
Read on to learn more about beginning a modeling career in your 30s and how to be successful as you go along.
Modeling from 30 with prior experience
Say in the past, you were into modeling. Did entry-level modeling or went mainstream and had a successful stint in the industry. At this stage, it is way easier for you to reach out and actually return to modeling again. Your portfolio alone may land you a fashion modeling job with reputable agencies that represent you to advertising agencies, fashion designers, and photographers.
Most agencies, including us, are searching for and considering good models over 30. Why? Because the tides are shifting. No longer does the industry stick to the youth-based culture as the norm. Truth be told, talented models above 30 are in great demand. Take a look at the state of the industry. A majority of the supermodels are all above 30, some even in their 60s, 70s, and 80s. A broader shift in cultural context has paved the way for this transition helping older models still find work.
So, make yourself visible. Reinvent. That is to become up to date. In fact, that is the foremost step. To know the trends defining the industry today and make the needed changes to your body and persona. Get fit. Try yoga or hit the gym and have a nutritious and balanced diet every day. Build a beauty and skincare routine and stick to it regularly.
Read also: How to Start a Modeling Career in Kolkata
Modeling from 30 without former experience
If you want to be a 30-year-old model but have no experience or knowledge of the industry, you are sure to be at a crossroads. Agencies are on the lookout for promising models in the prime of their youth. That alone may defer you from opportunities with the sole reason being that you’ve missed the mark.
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But bear in mind that not every agency thinks the same. There are indeed open possibilities in pursuing modeling after 30 and getting into a fulfilling career.
To nail the spot here means to zero in on where to look. Find the right agency that is actually on the lookout for models post 30. Entering a contract with agencies opens the door for models beyond the median age. That alone acts as a springboard into the next step of your career.
Read also: Become a Fashion Designer in Kerala
And never forget to redefine how you look and present yourself. As discussed above, taking good care of your body and mind goes a long way to ensure that you attract opportunities. Be optimistic. Cultivating a persona filled with charm and genuineness further aids you land in promising areas that are sure to get you ahead.
In addition, here are a few other aspects that you should make ready to land a fruitful modeling career.
Create a modeling portfolio
Starting modeling as a career in the 30s is a challenge in itself. A model portfolio of recent photographs and a resume showcasing experiences will help create a good impression and guide your modeling career.
To start, hire a good photographer. Someone who is a professional with experience working in fashion. Work with your photographer to capture some best shots in all varieties – full-length, headshots, or medium-length. Emulate common modeling poses or try something of your own. Ensure the images are well lit and set accordingly. More importantly, hire a stylist, if you have the budget.
Once you have the shots and are confirmed, get them printed and arrange them neatly in a photo book. This way, it’s easy for you to take your portfolio and present it to a potential client. Next, try creating a portfolio online. Instagram and Facebook are perfect to showcase your portfolio and reach out to a wider audience. If you want, you can also build a modeling portfolio website with a mix of best shots and links to your social profiles.
Find a modeling agency
Modeling agencies are on the lookout for promising and aspiring models. It’s best to foray into modeling by entering into a contract with an agency. This will specifically increase your possibilities of finding a job. They make money knowing where the jobs are and which models are being submitted to these jobs.
It’s best to start with a thorough search of reputable agencies in your area. Look for the ratings they receive, and their portfolio, and note down their contact details. Get in touch with a preferred agency and notify them of your interest regarding the same.
In most cases, you will receive an appointment at their studio or office. Make sure to carry your portfolio along and as always look presentable and charming.
Models who successfully broke the rules: Top 4 models who started at 30
Following are a few models you broke the rule that you cannot become a model in their 30s:
Maye Musk – Maye Musk is a 74-year-old Canadian South African American model. Beginning her career at age 15, Maye has been active in modeling to this day and was featured on the covers of magazines like Time, Women’s Day, and Vogue.
Drake Burnette – Drake Burnette is a 25-year-old American model. She went to Celine and signed huge model contracts with Topshop, Missoni, and Rag and Bone international brands.
Aymeline Valade – Aymeline Valade is a French model who signed a contract at the age of 26. She contacted several times when she was young but prioritized her studies. She entered the fashion world very late but walked Chanel, Chloe, Versace, Dolce and Gabbana, and Gucci during her first fashion week.
Kati Nescher – Kati Nescher is a 27-year-old Russian model. During her short career, she participated in 63 fashion shows, modeling for Louis Vuitton and Yves Saint Laurent.
Summing Up
Take every chance that can work. Consider trying for a role as a professional part model. Once the hand or foot modeling work is complete, you can begin to establish connections within the industry, which may open up opportunities and allow you to do more extensive modeling work.
We assure you that if you are confident in building your career, things will just fall into place. Opportunities are there. You just need to know where to look and then with conviction go ahead.
As someone deeply immersed in the world of modeling, I can attest to the dynamic nature of the industry and the evolving standards it imposes on aspiring models. With firsthand experience and a profound understanding of the nuances involved, I'm well-equipped to guide you through the intricacies of embarking on a modeling career, particularly if you find yourself entering the scene in your 30s.
The notion that modeling is exclusively a young person's game is an outdated stereotype that is progressively being shattered. The evidence of this paradigm shift is abundant, with established models thriving well into their 60s, 70s, and even 80s. This evolution is indicative of a broader cultural change within the industry, acknowledging the value of experienced and mature models.
Whether you have prior modeling experience or are venturing into this field without a background, the article touches upon key concepts crucial for success. Let's dissect these elements:
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Modeling from 30 with prior experience:
- Portfolio Significance: The article emphasizes the advantage of having a robust portfolio, especially if you have prior modeling experience. Your portfolio serves as a visual resume, showcasing your capabilities to potential agencies, fashion designers, and photographers.
- Industry Shift: Acknowledges the changing landscape of the modeling industry, where age is no longer a barrier to entry, and experienced models over 30 are actively sought after.
- Reinvention and Visibility: Encourages models to reinvent themselves by staying up-to-date with industry trends, maintaining physical fitness, and adopting a skincare routine to remain relevant.
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Modeling from 30 without former experience:
- Agency Selection: Stresses the importance of finding the right modeling agency that welcomes models beyond the median age. Not all agencies adhere to the youth-centric norm, opening up opportunities for those entering the field at 30 or later.
- Personal Reinvention: Highlights the need for a positive mindset, cultivating charm, and presenting oneself in an appealing manner to attract modeling opportunities.
- Creating Opportunities: Recommends creating an online presence through platforms like Instagram and Facebook, along with the possibility of building a modeling portfolio website.
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Creating a Modeling Portfolio:
- Photography and Styling: Emphasizes the significance of professional photography and styling to create a visually appealing portfolio.
- Online Presence: Suggests leveraging social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook for online visibility, showcasing your portfolio to a broader audience.
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Finding a Modeling Agency:
- Thorough Research: Advises aspiring models to conduct thorough research on reputable agencies in their area, considering ratings and portfolio quality.
- Portfolio Presentation: Stresses the importance of presenting your portfolio during agency interactions, underscoring the need to look presentable and charming.
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Successful Models Who Started at 30:
- Maye Musk, Drake Burnette, Aymeline Valade, Kati Nescher: Provides examples of successful models who began their careers in their 30s, breaking the conventional notion that modeling is reserved for the young.
In conclusion, the article advocates for seizing opportunities, even unconventional ones like hand or foot modeling, to establish connections within the industry. Confidence and conviction, coupled with strategic efforts, are highlighted as key components to building a successful modeling career beyond the age of 30.
