If you’re thinking of pursuing a career in modelling, you’ll want to find out exactly what’s involved and how to break into the field. Below are some useful references to aid your research.



Association of Model Agents

122 Brompton Rd

London SW3 1JD

020 7564 6466

The AMA is the main professional body for modelling agencies in the UK and the most reputable agencies are registered members of the Association. Write to or phone the agency for career help and information and for details of registered agencies in your local area.

Alba Model Information

www.albamodel.info/index.php

An independent information and advisory service for the modelling industry, this organisation aims to promote professionalism and regulation in the field. The website, although poorly edited, nevertheless provides some useful information on becoming a model as well as some of the pitfalls and scams to look out for.

Equity

www.equity.org.uk

Equity is the UK’s biggest representative body for anyone working in the performing arts and entertainment, from actors, dancers and singers to models. As well as details on membership and how to join, its website has information and advice on various careers.

Complete Guide for Models, Eric Bean and Jenni Bidner (Lark Books, 2005)

This comprehensive reference guide provides detailed information for people hoping to become models, including open and honest advice on what it’s like to work in the industry as well as insider tips from industry professionals such as make-up artists, photographers and model agents.

The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Being a Model, Roshumba Williams and Ann Marie O’Connor (Alpha Books, 1999)

Hear it straight from the horse’s mouth: top advice from former supermodel Roshomba on how to break into, survive and make a success of modelling. There’s information on what it’s like to be a model to help you decide whether it’s the career for you, as well as guidance on presentation and beauty – clothes, skincare, hair care and health and fitness.

Supermodel’s Beauty Secrets: Top Tips for Style, Beauty and Fashion, Victoria Nixon (Piatkus Books, 2002)

As well as understanding the modelling industry and what a modelling career involves, it’s of course essential to know how to look your best. This excellent book is the aspiring model’s bible. It’s written by former model and fashion magazine editor Victoria Nixon, who has collated advice and tips from a star-studded selection of top models such as Cindy Crawford, Kate Moss, Elle MacPherson and Sophie Dahl.

Modelling (Trotman, 2001)

This insightful read from Trotman’s Q&A Career Guides range is a brief but practical introduction to modelling as a career. Set out in an easy-to-digest question and answer format, it’s great for young people considering embarking upon a career in modelling. There’s information on entry requirements, skills and aptitudes, pay and conditions, types of work, career progression and long-term prospects.

So You Want to Work in Fashion? Margaret McAlpine (Hodder Wayland, 2005)

Taking a broader view, this book provides an insight into the wider world of fashion and how it ticks, useful for helping you to understand the context in which models work. There’s information on various careers including fashion designers, make-up artists, photographers and of course models, openly detailing the pros and cons of each career as well as the job descriptions and qualifications and experience required. It’s colourfully illustrated with photographs on each page.