 www.AskMen.com Model search: Similar to an open call, a model search is held by agencies who travel to small towns looking for model gold. However, because they had to travel to your location, model searches usually require a small processing fee, something along the lines of $25 U.S.. You might be rejected, but you'll get to meet industry professionals. Modeling convention: This option is perfect for someone who wants to improve his chances. Comparable to the model search, the convention has representatives from a number of different modeling agencies, which makes it easier for you to kill several birds with one stone. However, you must have some serious money, because it can cost you between $400 and $4000 to attend such an event. Scouting company: A more or less economical method of putting yourself on the marketplace is to use a scouting company. For between $60 and $150, you submit your profile to them online and they'll forward your information to major agencies. Reputable scouting services include www.modelscouts.com and www.minxmodels.com. On your own: Never underestimate your own marketing ability. You can call agencies and ask them when their next open call is. If one isn't scheduled, ask if you can drop by their offices anyway. By calling many agencies, you might find one willing to evaluate you. 
Getting signed
To get ahead, you need exposure. Never cease trying to appear in local newspaper ads, television shows, magazines, and fashion shows. Eventually, you might catch the eyes of the right people.
After all this work, there might very well be an agency interested in signing you. Before you sign, however, have an attorney go over the contract to make sure that you're not getting a raw deal. Ask about the unions you have to join and if you're allowed to take modeling jobs on the side. You could also meet with an accountant to see about tracking all the money you earn, if you deem it necessary. Modeling is a lucrative business and you don't want anyone taking advantage of you. Once signed, the agency will make sure to build your portfolio, or the series of pictures you take along when going to modeling interviews -- also called go-sees. You don't need a portfolio until you get signed, so don't waste money. The agency will also print composite cards for you; those are a series of pictures printed on a single sheet -- a business card of sorts. There are a whole lot of scams to watch out for... 
Don't get scammed
There are a lot of con men who will try to take advantage of wide-eyed hopefuls. The first thing you have to remember is that when people ask you for money, they're trying to scam you. Of course, we've explored situations above where you had to pay, but as long as trustworthy agencies like Ford, Boss or Elite are behind such requests, there shouldn't be a problem. Here are some situations that should rouse your suspicions: Pushy photographers
There are some photographers who will try to sell you a portfolio for thousands of dollars. Since most advertisers get their models from agencies, you don't need a portfolio because the agency that signs you will do it for you -- for free. Additionally, you don't need professional pictures when approaching agencies. Fly-by-night operations
These are agencies that don't have many clients, have not been in operation for long, and are terrible at getting you work. What makes such agencies a rip-off is that they'll ask you for registration and portfolio fees. No upright agency operates this way. Modeling schools
There are no certified schools for modeling. However, there are people who say that they've gained experience from such establishments. If you have money to waste, you can always give these schools a try, but you won't learn anything that you couldn't pick up from a book or the Internet. Shady characters
Con artists make a living by stroking your ego. There are people who will tell you they are managers and that they can get you work in exchange for shady methods of payment. Be wary of strangers who approach you claiming that you could be a model. More often than not, they're full of it. Walk away. Living The Life If you're serious about modeling for a living, consider moving to New York City, the modeling capital of the U.S.. From there, you'll meet the right people who may get you work all over the world. Nevertheless, if you live in a secondary market like Houston, Chicago or Seattle, you might still find work there doing catalogs, TV commercials or flyers. Keep your day job. Modeling can be profitable for a select few, but most models need another job to make ends meet. Also, don't spend everything you make because modeling isn't a career that'll carry you through to retirement. You need to plan your finances carefully so that you still have money left after you retire from the business. Finally, prepare yourself for an exhausting life. You will often find yourself in airports, traveling from one assignment to another. You'll spend a great deal of your time at appointments with advertisers and you'll be required to smile for hours on end and change clothes during interminable photo shoots. On the upside, you'll get invited to the best parties and meet some of the hottest women in the world. Strike a pose
Like any other job, modeling has its advantages and inconveniences. If you're ready to live with both, jump in and have fun.
Just remember what Ben Stiller said in Zoolander : "A male model's life is a precious, precious commodity. Just because we have chiseled abs and stunning features, it doesn't mean that we too can't not die in a freak gasoline fight accident." Resources:
www.soyouwanna.com
www.intmalemodel.com
www.fabjob.com
www.ehow.com
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com
www.modelingadvice.com
Article Suggested By:Tyler P., Las Vegas, NV
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