Advice for Aspiring Models

Modelling is a highly sought-after job, but that makes it a competitive and difficult industry for aspiring models to enter into. 

To be a model, you have to be confident and strong enough to put up with rejection and heartache. It’s not an easy industry to succeed in – but that doesn’t stop thousands of hopefuls trying.

If you want to be the next top model, read on for our professional modelling advice to help give you an edge. 

Being Realistic

It’s good to have aspirations and dreams, but it’s also important to have realistic expectations. Even if you find work as a model, it’s highly unlikely you will be the next supermodel – only a lucky few manage to rich such dizzying heights of success. 

But don’t let that put you off – it’s still possible to have a rewarding and lucrative career as a model even if you aren’t rubbing shoulders with the likes of Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner.

Choose Your Niche

There are many different types of modelling. For the best chances of success, you need to be smart and choose to pursue the one you are most suited to. 

Niches of modelling include:

– High fashion. Also known as catwalk modelling, this niche has the most specific and strict requirements. Supermodels are high fashion models. They walk in runway shows and work with the most premium brands. 

– Catalogue/Commercial. All other types of modelling tend to come under this niche. Catalogue/commercial modelling is a bit easier to get into as the requirements aren’t quite as strict. 

– Fitness. Fitness modelling has seen a huge surge in popularity. You must have a great, athletic physique to be a fitness model. 

– Plus-size. Another niche that has seen a rise in demand, plus-size models are required for brands catering to a curvier clientele. Plus-size models usually work in commercial modelling, but sometimes they are seen in high-fashion (though these models tend to be a UK dress size 10, while commercial plus-size models tend to be a size 14 and above.)

– Petite. Petite models are needed for brands catering to a shorter audience. 

– Alternative. Alternative models don’t fit into the stereotypical standards of beauty. They may have visible tattoos, piercings, body modifications and unusual hair styles. 

– Glamour. Glamour modelling, also known as lingerie modelling, has seen a decline in popularity as “lads mags” and page 3 have been shut down. However there is still a market for this type of modelling. 

Modelling Agencies

Some tops models are lucky enough to be approached by model scouts. But for everyone else, you need to get signed to a modelling agency by applying the old fashioned way.

Being signed to a modelling agency will give you more opportunities for work. It will also give your popularity a boost purely by association with a top agency; it gives you credibility, even if you haven’t done much modelling work yet. 

You can apply to a modelling agency by finding their online website. Their application process will be found somewhere on their website, along with the guidelines. Your submission will include a number of your best photos, so make sure you have these pre-selected.

You might not hear back from the agency. They receive thousands of applications each week, so this is fairly typical. Keep applying and try other agencies – you can apply to as many as you want, as many times as you want. 

Looking Like a Model

Models may look good due to good genes, but they also work hard to stay looking great year-round. 

You will need a good diet and exercise routine to be a model. This is to keep you in shape no matter the time of year. Eating well and exercising will also keep you in good health. 

You need to pay attention to your skin, too. Formulate a good skincare routine that you can stick to. Always take your make-up off in the evening with a double cleanse. Wear SPF each day to protect your skin from sun damage. Hydrate the skin by using a moisturiser that is suitable for your skin type. If you have skin issues like acne or hyperpigmentation, it might be worth visiting a dermatologist to help get it under control. No one’s skin is perfect, but having a good base will help a model’s career.

Modelling Portfolio

A modelling portfolio is an important tool for a model to have. It contains up to 20 of your best photos. Your portfolio will be taken with you to go-see’s and auditions. 

If you haven’t yet got any modelling experience or any high-quality photos and you’re not the best at photography, it’s a good idea to book in with a professional photographer. A pro will help you find your angles in a professional photo shoot environment and give you valuable experience in front of the camera. They will also take some amazing snapshots that can then be used in your portfolio. 

Networking

Networking is an important part of the modelling industry. Often, models are selected due to their connections within the industry. The more friends you have in modelling, the better. And they don’t just have to be other models – photographers, directors, artists, hair stylists… you never know where your next job could come from. 

Be polite to everyone you meet. Z-cards come in handy for networking as they’re a quick and convenient way to pass your details on to someone else. 

Scams

Scams are often seen within the modelling industry and it’s important you know how to avoid them. 

If you are approached online, make sure to research the person contacting you. A genuine industry expert will have no problem giving you information about themselves. It is a huge red flag if they use inapproproate language or refuse to give you information and themselves or the supposed company they work for. Go to the company direct and ask them to verify if the person works with them. Always use contact information supplied on the official website and not from the person in question. 

Tell a trusted friend or family member before going to a casting call or audition. You can often bring someone with you. If you are under 16, you are legally obliged to bring your parent or guardian with you. 

Modelling agencies will not ask for money for membership fees, or for lessons. They make their money by taking a percentage off the payment made to models once they complete a modelling job. If an agency is asking for money, consider this a red flag. 

Staying Positive

It’s difficult to get a job as a model, so it’s important to stay positive and keep trying. Rejection is a real part of the industry – even top models liek Victoria’s Secret Models must face it. That’s why it’s so important that you have a positive attitude

Do you think you have what it takes to be a model? Register today!