How to Become a Model with Modest Height

You don't need to be tall, slim, or have perfectly chiseled features to succeed as a model. Both men and women standing at 1m67 or even shorter can still sign contracts with modeling agencies, as long as they understand how to work with their limitations and play to their strengths. While tall and slender models may dominate the high-fashion world, there are still plenty of opportunities out there. If you know how to use your unique assets to your advantage, success can be within reach.

Connect with a photographer. Before stepping into the world of modeling, it's wise to research photographers in your area. Ideally, you should look for a photographer who specializes in portraits and has experience with makeup. You'll need subtle makeup for portrait photos.

• Search online for photographers who meet these criteria.
• You might be fortunate enough to find a photographer through the modeling agency you contact.

Paying for Portrait Photos. Yes, you will need to pay a skilled photographer who specializes in portraits. This is an initial investment, and modeling is a profession that requires financial commitment. You’ll want the best quality photos that you can afford. It's recommended to let the photographer or the modeling agency handle the makeup.

• A good photographer will take a series of shots, sometimes even hundreds. Then, they’ll work with you to choose the ones you like.
• Portraits can be taken both outdoors and in a studio. Both settings can produce great results if the photographer is talented.

Research Modeling Agencies. Talk to people in the modeling industry to see if they know any agencies. If not, you can search online for modeling companies in your area. It's best to choose one nearby to save time on commuting.

• If the closest modeling agency is an hour away, think about what you really want. If you’re determined to become a model, then be prepared to travel. Distance should not stop your dreams.
• Your photographer may also work for a modeling agency. Some agencies even look through portrait photos taken by photographers when they urgently need a model.

Contact Modeling Agencies. If possible, visit a modeling agency in person. Meeting face-to-face is often more effective. You can bring your portrait photos directly to their office. Be confident, but open to any feedback they may offer. You can also email several agencies you think might hire you for upcoming projects.

• Look for agencies that specialize in projects involving specific body parts or others that are open to various body types.
• Be professional when reaching out. If you're emailing, make sure to attach your portrait photos.
• Include any previous modeling or acting-related work you’ve done.
• You can contact multiple agencies at once.

Create an Online Model Portfolio. Many websites serve as databases where models and businesses can find each other. You can join one of these websites, often for free. Simply provide some basic information about your career goals and physical measurements. Be honest about your height and body proportions when setting up your profile.

• You may feel at a disadvantage when listing your height, but agencies will appreciate your honesty. There are many opportunities where models with unique body types can excel.
• Try using http://www.modelmanagement.com/ as it has an attractive interface and rich resources.

Move to a Larger City. It might not seem convenient, but large cities are modeling hubs. This is where you’ll find the “big opportunities,” if they arise. You don’t necessarily need to move to L.A. or New York, although those are great options. If you live in a small town or rural area, consider relocating to a nearby city.

• For instance, if you're based in Carbondale, Illinois, you could move to St. Louis or Chicago.

Accept Every Job in the Beginning. Even if you're just starting out, it's crucial to take on modeling jobs to build up your portfolio. Unless the job compromises your ethical standards, you should accept them all. Gaining modeling experience will help demonstrate your skills to future employers.

• It's easier to start with part-time modeling work, which involves posing with specific body parts like hands.
• Another popular option for models with diverse body types is catalog modeling. Catalog modeling is increasingly popular because it represents a variety of body sizes, making it relatable to the general audience flipping through a catalog.

Determine the Modeling Style You Prefer. There are many different types of modeling jobs available for shorter models. While the high-fashion industry is still conservative with its preference for tall and slender models, there are plenty of other opportunities to explore. Consider the following options based on the kind of portfolio you wish to create:

• Magazine Model
• Commercial Model
• Catalog Model
• Plus-Size Model
• Lingerie Model
• Part-Time Model
• TV Commercial Model
• Lifestyle Model (for TV/film)

Gather Your Photos. For a new model, you should aim to have 5-8 photos in your portfolio. The key to a successful photo portfolio is the ability to showcase the range of modeling you can do. If you only have a few photos taken by one photographer, reach out and collaborate with other artists. The great thing about photos is that they don’t reveal your height unless you’re posing next to something that provides context.

• Avoid photos with people who are much taller than you.
• Try to show your versatility by posing in different outfits and makeup styles.
• If one of your photos is a striking black-and-white image, and it stands out among the others, be sure to include it in your portfolio.

Make Yourself Stand Out. You can find many examples of model portfolios online. These examples will guide you in presenting your profile and showcasing your personality. Consider adding a high-quality photo of yourself enjoying one of your hobbies. For example, if you love cooking, take a charming photo of yourself in the kitchen.

• Make sure to include a variety of images in your portfolio, even personal ones.
• Highlight a unique aspect of yourself that isn't limited by your height. For instance, you could include a portrait showing a range of facial expressions. This will showcase your skills, and modeling agencies will be less concerned about your height.
• Sometimes personal photos stand out more to companies.

Provide a Brief Introduction About Yourself. Print high-resolution photos in the desired sizes. Most large modeling markets accept the standard sizes of 8x10” (20x25cm) or 8.5x11” (22x28cm). Some places may require smaller or even larger sizes, like 9x12” (23x30cm). On the first page of your portfolio, include the following information:

• Your name, location, and contact details.
• A concise summary of your work and career goals.
• Any relevant skills such as speaking a second language, acting, singing, etc.

Improve Your Health. Focus on a healthy lifestyle and nutrition. There are plenty of opportunities for shorter models, but none for those lacking a strong work ethic. To maintain a high standard of professionalism, you need to stay healthy. Drink plenty of water every day.

• Exercise at least twice a week.
• Limit alcohol and tobacco consumption.
• Eat plenty of vegetables, whole grains, and organic foods whenever possible.

Develop Your Facial Expressions. Focus on your eyes and learn to convey different emotions without changing your facial expression. Follow other models on social media to observe how they express themselves. You should also spend time practicing in front of a mirror, experimenting with various facial expressions and poses.

• You must be able to express the emotions the photographer requires for the shoot. Practice conveying basic emotions like sadness, happiness, frustration, confusion, or surprise.
• Enhance your ability to express each emotion both subtly and exaggeratedly to expand your range as a model.

Attend Model Conventions. Instead of paying a lot of money for modeling schools, attend conventions full of talent scouts and managers. Search online for a convention near where you live and prepare for it. Before attending the convention, have multiple copies of your portfolio and portrait photos ready.

• A reputable convention you can attend is ‘’Faces West.’’ This convention is aimed at aspiring models who don’t have an agent.

Become a Petite Model. With the right self-promotion, you can land jobs that specifically require shorter, smaller models. Some agencies might hire you as a teen model, even if you're 25, as long as your body proportions align with the industry standards. Other paths you can explore include part-time modeling and portrait modeling.

• Assess which part of your body stands out the most. For example, if you have beautiful feet, market them.
• If you often receive compliments about your eyes or face, focus on that beauty and consider becoming a makeup model, for example.

Be Realistic About Your Career Pursuit. No matter how hard you work, height can sometimes be a real barrier. You need to find more practical jobs instead of aiming for the runway. The runway is not always welcoming to models under 1.7m. However, there are many opportunities available for models, such as commercial shoots, catalog work, and magazine shoots.

• Aim for success in the modeling industry, but know there are certain paths that may not be suitable for you, so focus on finding opportunities that fit your strengths.