Elite Model Search is one of the most prestigious modeling competition in the world. Responsible for helping launch the careers of  Helena Christensen, Cindy Crawford, Stephanie Seymour, Linda Evangelista and Gisele Bunchen, the modeling agency now prepares for  a 2009 competition to find the next Supermodel and guess what? Nigeria plays an important role in the search for the world’s next supermodel!

While your temperature runs high because you have always wanted to be a model, calm down for a second let’s really talk about what model searches are and what you need to do to be successful, especially at Elite Model Look Nigeria.

What are model searches? Model searches are contests held all over the country, in large and small cities to find the next supermodel. In Elite’s case, the competition extends all over the world and is held in numerous cities in countries across the world. For Elite Model Look Nigeria, castings were held in Abuja, Lagos and Ibadan the first week of August.  The grand audition takes place August 29th, 2009.

Why should I participate in a model search? If you truly want to be a model, it doesn’t matter whether you are selected or not, a model search is your opportunity to meet with scouts, impress them with your personality and get advice on ways you can self improve so you have a fair chance at a successful modeling career.

How Much do I have to Pay to Enter the Competition? It depends on the size of the company. In Elite’s case, they are a large and well established organization. Large companies typically charge nothing or a little nominal fee because they can absorb the costs and expenses of scouting for you through their sponsors or their own monies. The reverse holds true. If they are a small company, then expect to pay to enter the competition. Even, then, it should be a reasonable fee.

How do Model Searches work once you get to the venue?

1. The Preliminary Search: Agency auditions in small competitions around the country. In this case, Elite Model Nigeria already scouted girls in Ibadan, Lagos and Abuja. Wonder why they didn’t add Calabar as a place to scout? Anyway I digress. Here you are responsible for your dressing, makeup, hair and so forth.

At these preliminary searches, you fill out a form with your information. Next the agency representative tells you all you need to know about the industry and of course the agency’s history. Then of course you hear the famous, “walk.” Models form a line and usually have a number assigned to them and then they walk! When all models are done walking, the agency selects the winner that will compete on a regional or national level. The same process repeats itself at the regional or national level with the grand winners being chosen at that stage.

How do you stand out and win at the model search? Read our article on How to Become a Model.

I will also add that you should talk to the scouts, be respectful and let your personality show; and if you don’t win, don’t be a sorry looser! Go up to the scouts. Thank them for their time and ask how you can self improve. In this instance, Elite Model Nigeria is working with a local affiliate agency, Beth Modeling Agency, to help organize these model competitions. Even if you are not successful at Elite Model Nigeria, you can still try working with Beth Modeling Agency or any of the credible agencies in Nigeria.

Elite Model Look Nigeria Upcoming Castings
SEMI FINAL
CITY: LAGOS
AUGUST 29th 2009 – 10AM
VENUE: PROTEA HOTEL
40/42 Issac John Street, GRA,
Ikeja, Lagos.

FINAL NATIONAL COMPETITION
DATE: SEPT 19th, 2009
VENUE:Eko hotel banquet hall
Victoria Island, Lagos

Visit Elite Model Look Nigeria website for more details. Goodluck and go GET them!

~Article by Uduak Oduok