Model Kaiwhakakite Kākahu

Models display and promote clothes or other goods on television, online, in magazines and advertising, and on catwalks at fashion shows.

Models may do some or all of the following:

  • go to auditions and castings for modelling work
  • sit for make-up and hair stylists
  • discuss the required poses and movements, or the part to be played
  • model clothes, make-up, jewellery or other products in fashion shows or for magazines, websites or television
  • learn scripts and dialogue for television auditions.

Physical Requirements

Models need to:

  • have a tidy appearance
  • be fit and healthy, with good skin
  • meet physical requirements of clients – for example, height and body shape.

Useful Experience

Useful experience for models includes:

  • dance and drama
  • work with make-up and hairstyling
  • any work involving sales, promotion or contact with people
  • work in hospitality
  • photography experience.

Personal Qualities

Models need to be:

  • confident
  • reliable and punctual
  • patient
  • good listeners
  • adaptable
  • professional
  • able to accept criticism.

Skills

Models need to have:

  • knowledge of body posture, movement and facial expressions
  • knowledge of make-up, hairstyles and fashion
  • performance skills
  • knowledge of nutrition and exercise.

Conditions

Models:

  • usually work irregular hours, which can include weekends and evenings
  • work in photographic and television studios, fashion shops, on catwalks and at various outdoor locations
  • may travel locally, nationally or internationally for photo shoots.

Subject Recommendations

There are no specific secondary education requirements to become a model. However, subjects such as physical education, and music, dance and drama are useful.

Related Courses

Models may specialise in a particular type of modelling such as runway modelling or commercial modelling.

They may also progress to become fashion photographers or make-up artists, or set up their own modelling agencies.

Years Of Training

There are no specific requirements to become a model. However, a portfolio of previous modelling work can be useful.

Model