Runway Modeling

What is a designer or photographer looking for in a Runway Model? Here are six top tips for Runway Models for fashion shows and fashion magazines.

1. Age: Starting as a runway model at 15 will have a great advantage. Ages used for runway modeling is generally 15 to 22 years old. 
2. Height: Runway models are generally tall but not too tall. The height range is generally 5'9 to a maximum of 6' tall. This will help keep the photos and looks consistent. 
3. Weight: The models are generally very thin. Depending on the height they can range from 100 - 120 lbs. 
4. Body Type: Think long legs! Models generally have very long legs and shorter torsos.
5. Skin: The skin of a runway model has to be perfect! It is the ultimate showcase for fashion designers.
6. Photography: A picture is worth a thousand words. A runway model that know only can walk the runway but look amazing in a photo is very important. Photos often end up in publications featuring fashion.

There's no simple formula for walking the runway, and what will ultimately make you stand out is not only how well you can move your body but also how much of your own personality you can inject into your performance to make it memorable. The best way to create your own unique style is to experiment, practice, and get feedback (even if it means taking some constructive criticism).

You want to rule the runway! You will be the ultimate display for designers clothes.

Runway modeling is a great way to get exposure for future bookings. Take it very seriously and look for future opportunities. 

Think of yourself as a glamorous clothing hanger that sweeps down the runway. Get exposed and get booked. It is a great idea to practice often and even video tape yourself. Watch videos of professional models and try to see how they handle the runway. Your ability to be natural will go a long way. Here are some great runway modeling tips:

• Eyes - Your eyes should be focused straight ahead and looking into the distance ahead. A simple but effective tip is to find something in the back of the room and focus on it. This will help keep you focused as well. Although stay away from focusing on any bright lights. It could disorient you!
• Chin - Your chin should be positioned slightly down while working the runway. The crowd will be sitting on chairs further below. You already have a great height advantage and need to be seen by photographers. This is key to having your photo published in a magazine. 
• Shoulders - Try to keep the movement down to a minimum. Yes this is even for when you are walking. Practicing often will make this a lot easier to accomplish.
• Arms - You want to keep the arm swing down to a minimum. Your arms should only swing as much as your body makes them. There will be a difference in the arm swing between male models and female models. The body structure of men will change the swing relative to women. Women should concentrate on keeping their arms close to their body.
• Hands - Although you would not often think of the importance of your hands, it is very important for runway modeling. Remember that photographers in the crowd below you taking photos as you are walking by. One of the first things you will see is the hand of the runway model. Keep your hands open wit your fingers straightened. A natural straight, not stressed to be straight.
• Legs - Men need to just walk natural but with longer strides. The length of the stride should almost be twice as long. Woman should do the same but with one foot in front of the other.
• Posture - Stand up straight with your shoulders back. This is standard in the runway modeling industry.