A career in modeling can seem glamorous, but breaking into the industry is more accessible than many believe. It requires preparation, persistence, and an understanding of the business. This guide provides an overview of the steps for starting a modeling career, from identifying your niche to navigating the professional landscape.
Understand the Different Types of Modeling
The term “model” encompasses many career paths. Understanding these niches is the first step to success, as each has its own expectations. The work, clients, and required look vary significantly between categories.
High Fashion/Runway Modeling
High fashion modeling is often considered the most exclusive. These models work with luxury designers, appearing in runway shows during major fashion weeks and in elite magazines like Vogue. The focus is on showcasing designer collections and embodying an artistic vision.
Commercial Modeling
Commercial modeling focuses on promoting products and services to the public. This niche values a relatable and approachable look that connects with consumers. Commercial models appear in print ads, billboards, and television commercials. This field is more accessible, with no strict height or size requirements.
Print Modeling
Print modeling involves posing for photographs used in physical and digital media, such as catalogs, magazines, and newspaper ads. The goal is to display products, like clothing or accessories, in a way that is appealing to the target audience.
Fitness Modeling
Fitness models have athletic physiques and are hired to promote gyms, athletic wear, and wellness brands. This specialization requires a commitment to maintaining a body type that reflects health and strength. Their work includes demonstrating exercises and appearing in ad campaigns.
Parts Modeling
Parts modeling focuses on a specific body part, like hands, feet, or hair. These models are booked for close-ups to advertise jewelry, shoes, or nail polish. A parts model must keep their specialized feature in pristine condition, such as a hand model needing flawless skin and nails.
Promotional Modeling
Promotional models represent a brand at live events like trade shows and product launches. This role is as much about personality as appearance. Models must be engaging and articulate to act as a spokesperson and create a positive experience for customers.
Meeting the Industry Requirements
While the industry is becoming more inclusive, certain sectors maintain specific requirements. The most stringent are in high fashion. Female models are expected to be between 5’9″ and 6’0″ tall, while male models are between 6’0″ and 6’3″.
Measurements for female models are traditionally around a 34-inch bust, 24-inch waist, and 34-inch hips. These specific proportions ensure that sample-size garments from designer collections fit during runway shows and photoshoots.
Commercial modeling offers more flexibility. Since the goal is to appeal to a broad consumer base, brands look for models who represent everyday people. There are no rigid height or measurement standards, and agencies seek a wide variety of ages, sizes, and ethnicities. A unique look or the ability to convey a relatable emotion can be more valuable than fitting narrow physical criteria.
Beyond height and measurements, agencies look for clear skin, healthy hair, and good teeth. Proportional features and strong bone structure are sought after in high fashion, but a distinctive face can be an asset for commercial work.
Creating Your Modeling Portfolio
A modeling portfolio is your primary marketing tool, a visual resume for agencies and clients. Agencies first want to see your natural appearance through simple, unedited photos, not an expensive, elaborate portfolio.
The first asset you need is a set of digitals, also known as Polaroids. These are raw, un-retouched photos showing what you look like without professional styling. Agencies use these to get an honest impression of your features and body shape. Digitals should be taken against a plain background in natural light, including headshots, full-body, and profile shots in form-fitting clothes.
Once you have digitals, you can build a professional portfolio with 10 to 20 of your best images from a photographer. It should demonstrate versatility by including different looks, such as a smiling commercial headshot and a serious fashion shot. The goal is to show clients you can embody different styles.
For beginners, it’s not necessary to spend a large amount of money on a professional shoot right away. Some aspiring models collaborate with photographers on a “Time For Print” (TFP) basis, where both parties work for free to build their respective portfolios. The most important thing is to have a few strong images that highlight your potential, including a clear headshot and a full-body shot, to begin the process of seeking representation.
Finding Representation
With your digitals and a starting portfolio, the next step is finding a modeling agent. An agent acts as your representative, connecting you with clients, negotiating contracts, and guiding your career. Before submitting, research agencies to understand the types of models they represent and ensure they align with your career goals. The two primary methods for getting noticed are through online submissions and attending open casting calls.
Most reputable agencies have a “submissions” section on their website. Follow their instructions precisely, as submissions that don’t adhere to the guidelines are often discarded. You will be asked to upload your digitals and provide your exact measurements, so be honest and accurate.
Another way to connect with agents is by attending an open call, a designated time when an agency meets aspiring models without an appointment. Information about open calls can be found on an agency’s website or social media. For an open call, arrive with clean hair and minimal makeup, wearing simple, form-fitting clothes. Be prepared to have your photos and measurements taken and to answer a few questions.
Avoiding Common Scams
The modeling industry can attract fraudulent companies, so recognizing the red flags of a scam is important. The most common sign is a request for upfront fees. Legitimate agencies operate on a commission basis, meaning they only make money when you do, typically taking 20% of your earnings from jobs they book. They will never ask you to pay for representation or mandatory classes.
Be wary of anyone who pressures you to pay for expensive photo shoots with their “in-house” photographer as a condition for representation. Another red flag is a guarantee of work or promises of instant fame. No legitimate agent can guarantee bookings, as they depend on client needs and market trends. High-pressure tactics and a lack of transparency are also warning signs.
Always research an agency before signing anything by checking online reviews. A legitimate agency will give you time to review any contract with a lawyer and will be clear about their business practices. Never provide sensitive personal information upfront or agree to meet someone in an unsafe location. If an offer seems too good to be true, it likely is.
Developing Essential Modeling Skills
Securing an agent is a major step, but long-term success depends on developing professional skills. You must know how to perform in front of the camera and conduct yourself professionally on set. These skills distinguish a new face from a working model.
Practicing your poses is fundamental. Spend time before a mirror or camera to understand your angles and learn to move gracefully. Study images in magazines to see how experienced models create shapes and convey emotions. The ability to take direction from a photographer and adjust poses quickly is highly valued.
For runway modeling, developing a strong, confident walk is necessary. This requires excellent posture, a steady pace, and the ability to showcase the clothing. Practicing in different types of footwear, especially heels, will help you prepare for a fashion show.
Professionalism is the foundation of a sustainable career. This means being punctual for every job, arriving prepared, and being respectful to everyone on set, including photographers, stylists, and crew members. The modeling world is smaller than it seems, and a reputation for being reliable and easy to work with will lead to more opportunities.