New Models - Getting Started

Thinking about starting modeling? Let’s get into the basics.

Everyone’s journey is different - there is no set guide to becoming a model. Some models might be scouted, some apply to agencies, some already have connections. If you are starting from the beginning, here are some tips to help!

First, you want to build your portfolio. Agencies and clients need to see how you look and how you photograph. The best way to do this is to find photographers and other creatives (HMU, stylists, etc.) that are also trying to build their portfolio. This would be called “trade for trade,'“ meaning both parties are trading services rather than being compensated. It benefits everyone involved, because not only do you get to add photos to your book, you also get to practice with less stress. Another option to build your book would be to hire experienced photographers for what is called a “test shoot”. If you have the resources, I would definitely suggest doing this to make sure you get the best photos possible. With an experienced photographer, they may offer packages that help with styling, hair, and makeup. This is ideal for a new model because the professionals on set will be able to offer guidance throughout the shoot and ensure you get the best photos possible.

When it comes to building your portfolio, you want to include a variety of photos. However, remember quality over quantity. Clients and agents need to see that you can be versatile, but it is better to have a hand full of amazing photos than a ton of mid photos.

The most important photos to include in your portfolio are your digitals. Digitals are simple photos, typically in form fitting outfit and natural makeup. They are meant to show clients what you will show up to set looking like (no editing or glam makeup). These can be taken by a photographer or even at home with the help of a friend or tripod. You will want to have a clean background, form fitting/neutral clothing, and natural hair & makeup. When taking digitals be sure to include the following shots: headshot, full body, 3/4 body, and both side profiles. Digitals will be used frequently for castings and even to apply for agencies, so you will want to keep them updated. If you change your look in any way (haircut, tattoos, piercings) make sure your digitals reflect your current look. Here are a few of my current digitals for reference.

While you’re building your portfolio, you can be applying to modeling agencies. You should not feel like your portfolio needs to be complete before you apply to agencies. Your portfolio will be constantly evolving and growing, your agent will be able to help you elevate it. They know what the clients want to see, so they will be able to give you guidance on what your portfolio is missing - this helps with what I mentioned about quality over quantity.

Luckily, the majority of agencies today allow you to apply online. Most applications will want you to submit digitals, measurements, and social media links. While applying for agencies, it is important to make sure it looks like they will be a good fit for you. What brands are they currently working with? What do the other models look like? Does it look like their models are working often? Every model has a different goal, so you want to find an agency that can help you with that specifically. If you want to model for makeup companies, but an agency specializes in runway or high fashion, it’s probably not a good fit. There is a perfect agency for everyone, its just about taking the time to do the research and fine one you love.

For some models, this process will be fairly quick. For others, it might take a while to find the perfect agency. Don’t be discouraged if you do not find an agent right away. With agencies, you will be in a contract with them, so it is much better to wait it out to find the perfect agent rather than being stuck in a contract with an agent who is not helpful to you. In the case that you are not signed to an agency, you can still be modeling. There are an abundance of casting websites (I use Casting Networks currently). These websites will list castings with their rate and allow you to apply directly without an agent. The only thing that makes this tricky, is you need to know your terminology when it comes to contracts - luckily we have the internet, so take advantage and educate yourself!

Network network network. The benefit of an agent is that they already have connections to brands, so they know what the brands are casting for. If you don’t have a direct connection - make one. Reach out to brands on instagram, be in their comment sections, get noticed. It only takes one person to see your images, pass them along, and get you booked. We are in a world of social media, so a brand could book you from straight from Instagram. Social media has basically become a second (FREE) portfolio for models. A tip to getting booked is to look at the brand you want to work with, and recreate an image similar to what you see on their page. This allows the client to already envision what it would look like if you worked with them. For a client, hiring a model is an investment, so they need to be sure you can execute the project they have in mind.

At the end of the day, the best way to get booked as a model is put yourself out there. Apply apply apply. There are an abundance of agencies and castings, it’s just about finding the right fit. Remember, do not be discouraged if things aren’t moving at the pace you expect - everything happens in divine timing. What is meant for you, will not pass you by. There are numerous brands I have worked with that I did not get casted for the first time I tried. Brands are casting for campaigns everyday and always looking for something specific. If you do not get booked, that doesn’t necessarily reflect poorly on you - it just wasn’t the right fit. Keep trying, keep updating your portfolio, and enjoy the process.

To all new models - my inbox is always open for any questions or advice. Good luck! ♥