But keep in mind some things might cost at first such as, acting classes, acting headshots, or test shooting for a “starter portfolio’ and-or comp cards. Never go to a “modeling school”. Be leery of any modeling agencies that want you to use their photographer. A reputable modeling agency will give you a list of photographers to work with on your starter portfolio and-or comp cards. Never start a portfolio or obtain comp cards until you have an agent. Typically commercial models only use comp cards, no portfolio. But that isn’t always how it goes.

Also keep in mind that acting and modeling are two different careers. In acting you might be asked if you want to take classes that will cost you. Also you might be asked if you would like to use one of their photographers for your headshots. But these shouldn’t mandatory. Do research or have a parent/guardian do it for/with you.

5′6 at your age is ok, if you’re looking to do commercial/print. Most often, even at your age they want at the very least 5′9 1/2 for high fashion. Even some 5′9 1/2 girls they turn away for being too short. They are considered the exception to the unwritten rule of 5′10 and over. Your best bet is to look for agencies in your state first. Stay away from “modeling schools”. Look in your yellow pages for agencies. Call them to find out their submission process. Some agencies have open calls while others want you to send snap shots. You will need support from your parents with this as you need them to go with you on “go-sees”, assignments, interviews, etc, and for signing forms.

For acting, contact your local casting agencies and casting directors. You can find them in your yellow pages as well. Casting agencies can put you on file for upcoming roles. You can even take classes with some of them. By getting involved in local theater you’re already taking great steps toward acting.

With acting do as much theatre as possible, and there are some modeling agencies that have an actors division where you can go to an open call and see if you get in, you must have a resume of all the plays you’ve been in, or anything to do with acting that you’ve done, etc.

If you’re willing to shell out a ton of money, there are competitions for people in your age range… You’d have to travel a ton and your chances of winning are slim, but it’s still experience.

Try having your parents talk to stores and see if they’re looking for models. They’ll probably direct you to that store’s corporate headquarters, as the modeling for catalogues are usually handled through there and not the individual stores themselves.

You’ll probably start as a fit model, which means all they do is put you in clothes to see how they look. If they like you enough, you’ll begin to move up.

Watch America’s Next Top Model and take all the advice Tyra Banks gives to her models. She really knows what she’s talking about.

And above all, have confidence in yourself!

Good luck!

But if ur not into all that, just go through a Modeling agency!

the shortest you can be is 5′8. high fashion models are, almost all the time, between 5′9 and 5′11.
you need to be slender, but not to look scarily skinny. long legs, an interesting, symmetrical face, clean skin, versatile hair.
and most importantly have a good, cooperative personality, and don’t take things people say too seriously. keep your eyes on your goal.
in the industry models take a bunch of rejections. at castings they get criticized and are told they’re too this, or not enough that. it is important not to take these words to heart.