A modeling career can be tough – mainly because it is so demanding. Knowing if you are cut out for the modeling world is a little bit like knowing if you are cut out for battle. In the fashion industry, models are critical to the marketing process. If a designer’s new collection doesn’t look great on a model, chances are that people won’t like that designer’s collection. In the modeling world, it isn’t all about glitz and glamor – it is still a job and oftentimes you have to wake up early and work very hard. So, are you cut out for a career in modeling?

First, it is important to know that becoming a model is very hard. Not only is it competitive, but also modeling agencies and designers can be incredibly selective. So, it important to know what kind of model you want to become, or else you could be dealing with a lot of rejection. For instance, there are many different types of modeling agencies – each with their own specialty. While one agency might represent runway models, another might represent lifestyle models.

Also, it important to know that models must work incredibly hard. In truth, modeling isn’t like it is in the movies or TV. If you are trying to determine whether or not you are cut out for the job, you should ask yourself whether you can withstand 15 to 16 hour days – most of it waiting around. Only during about five of those 15 to 16 hours will you be in front of the camera. Most of the time you will be waiting around for lighting people to set up, makeup people, photographers, set construction and much more. If you don’t have a lot of patience, or if you don’t like to wait, perhaps a modeling career is not right for you.

Next, it takes a while before you can start earning a livable wage. For many models, it can take years to reach the point where you and your modeling agency can negotiate a better rate with a client. Typically, you have to be in the industry for at least five years and you have to be working on a regular basis to start negotiating. When you are just starting out, negotiating with a client is a sure fire way to not get far in the industry.

Lastly, some modeling careers don’t last, so it is important to have a backup plan. While there is much more longevity in lifestyle modeling, because you don’t have to worry about age, height or weight, the fashion modeling industry on the other hand is a little more fickle. There have been plenty of models that have rose to prominence during a few fashion seasons and then were virtually forgotten afterwards. However, this is purely the nature of the beast. When it comes down to it, if you are young and looking for a job that will pay relatively well and afford you the opportunity to travel, modeling can be an excellent career.