By Lane Wright
Being a famous model isn''t easy, even if you are really, really, incredibly good looking. Getting into the Japanese market is even harder. Sure, you might think you''re famous if you make it into a UTA bus ad, but going to Japan is a great way to get the experience you''ll need to move on to even bigger places like Milan, Paris, Los Angeles and New York.
Owners and directors of modeling agencies and American models in Japan gave their advice on how to make it big.
So, if your looking to strut down the runway, or get your face plastered on the side of Japanese buses, just follow these 10 steps to becoming a famous model in Japan.
1. Get genetics to work in your favor. Not to discourage you, but the modeling industry is looking for some specific things.
'Take growing pills so you''re tall' said Danna Lee Ballard, a 15-year-old girl from Pleasant Grove, modeling in Japan.
A girl''s height should range from about 5 feet 8 inches to 6 foot and have a hip size no bigger than a 35, said Karie Rhodes, owner of Premier Models. Aaron Yun, owner of Creative Talent, said it is OK if she is at least 5 feet 7 inches tall since the general Japanese population is quite a bit shorter. A guy should measure in between 5 feet 11 inches and 6 feet 2 inches and have a jacket size no bigger than a 44. (So all you body builders watch out.)
2. Get an agent.
'You could do it on your own,' Rhodes said, 'but you''ll make fewer mistakes if you get with people who know what they''re doing.'
3. Learn how to say hello in Japanese.
For those of you who don''t already know, this how you say it phonetically: Ko-Knee-Chee-Wah.
4. Get some pictures taken and make sure they are good.
This is where it is a good idea to get a professional photographer. This should cost anywhere from $400 to $600 for a full package, including negatives.
5. Get experience in the local market.
You can''t expect to make a lot of money in Japan if nobody knows who you are and that you can work.
6. If you''re a girl, start young.
It''s a good idea to start around age 12. That''s when Ballard started. She now has two and a half years experience, has been to Japan twice and, by the way, she''s 5 feet 11 inches tall.
7. Be an older, really good-looking European guy with an all-American look.
Most of the Japanese market is for girls but don''t get disheartened men. About 10 percent of the models in Japan are guys, however few of them are American guys. They like guy models with a lot of experience, from ages 18 to about 30, with the classic blonde hair, blue eyes look.
8. Have a good personality.
People think that models have to be stuck-up and sassy. Not true. Friendly models with good people skills get a lot further.
9. Invest in yourself.
If you''re serious about getting into the modeling industry, don''t be afraid to put some money down.
'I believe whole-heartedly in training,' Rhodes said. 'It gives a girl confidence and poise.'
Rhodes said that any model who goes to New York without any training or experience won''t last a week. Also consider costs for plane tickets, living expenses and photographers.
10. Get used to the smell of fish.
Where did you think sushi came from?
Don''t get scammed!
Here are some warning signs to look for if you are thinking about getting into the modeling business
* Stay away from hotel model searches
Generally these people don''t have a license in the local modeling market. They might come and take your money and give you an 800 number.
* Stay away from Internet modeling agencies.
Internet services are valid to promote a model who is already with a legitimate agency. You know, one with an actual office.
* Don''t get caught up in spending thousands of dollars.
Some money is needed to get started for training, and pictures, but be wary if the price starts getting into the thousands.
* Be careful of big promises.
If an agent is trying to convince you to pull out your checkbook or credit card by promising large amounts of money, prestigious cover shots and fame, keep looking. Nobody can accurately predict how marketable you will be or how much money you will make.