How to pursue a career in modelling in India
Today, modelling is known to be one of the most buzzing and lucrative careers. Mostly seen as a youth-centric career, the opportunities for modelling have opened up to a wider scope unlike how it used to be like a decade ago. Another unique aspect is that social media has helped democratise this industry and depart from the cookie-cutter perception of what modelling used to be. With the professions of influencers and models merging and slowly becoming ambiguous, it can be a little confusing to understand what traditional modelling is. Essentially, it includes the art of walking (catwalk) and posing elegantly to display clothing and accessories in a way which assists in creating demand for it. Here is everything an aspiring model needs to know.
Modelling courses
Aspiring models can pursue either a certificate course or a diploma course in modelling. Certificate courses are shorter (1-12 months) while diplomas are generally longer (4 months- 2 years.) Here are two popular ones.
International Institute of Fashion Technology (IIFT), New Delhi, (Certificate course): IIFT offers a 6-month certificate course in modelling. Any aspirant (preferably over the age of 15) can apply for this course. It is a straightforward, direct process which can be completed on the institute's official website.
Cinecraft Academy of Film and Television, Pune, (Diploma course): Although known for its film, TV and acting courses, Pune’s Cinecraft Academy of Film and Television also offers a diploma course in modelling. This is a 2- year long diploma course, for which the application can be completed on the institute’s official website. This course can be pursued after 10th grade.
Top modelling agencies in India
These are the companies that connect aspiring models with prospective clients. There is a plethora of agencies all over the country. Here, we guide you on two of the most reputed ones.
Inega Models Management: Established in 1990, Inega Models Management is one of the largest and most popular modelling agencies in the country. It grooms models for national as well as international modelling jobs. Its head office is located in Mumbai. The easiest way to get in touch with them is by sending a portfolio through email (which can be found on the official website) or walking in at the office.
Crizaze Modelling and Adverstising Agency: This is another well-known name in the fashion industry, and has been around since 2010. The main office is located in Chennai. However, Crizaze has built a network across other Indian cities and has associates abroad too. Similar to Inega, one can send in a profile or walk into the office to enquire. Now-a-days, model scouting is also done directly on social media.
Tips for aspiring models
Here are a smart tips for an aspiring model to stand out.
- Use social media as a way to document his portfolio. Scouting takes place online for the most part in today’s digital age.
- Work towards her goals in a healthy way. In blind pursuit of fame, many aspiring models tend to neglect their health and well-being. Although a certain body standard is preferred in the modelling world, it can be harmful to your aspiring model’s mental health.
- Master the art of networking. Doing so will build connections within the industry and translate into more opportunities.
- Be cautious while approaching a modelling agencies. An aspiring model should keep the portfolio handy while visiting an agency. This can include photos from previous modelling gigs or a professional photoshoot. Since agencies directly scout models from social media too these days, it can be extremely helpful to build an online portfolio using apps like Instagram. However, it is important to verify and double-check the authenticity of agencies both online and offline.
Eligibility criteria
There are no select eligibility criteria as such in terms of educational qualification. However, it is recommended and preferred to have completed 10+2 years of education, i.e., high school. Apart from this, a graduate certificate or any such course related to modelling is an added bonus. Most modelling agencies prefer 5 feet and 7 inches to be the ideal height for female models. For male models, taller the better- with 5 feet and 11 inches being the minimum requirement.