How to Get Noticed By a Model Scout

Want to get noticed by a model scout? Look no further. We’ve collated the latest information to help you put your best foot forward and stand out from other aspiring models.

The Role of a Model Scout

A mode scout is someone who works for a modelling agency and recruits fresh faces. Often, model scouts will approach people in public and hand them their card. Many of the top supermodels started their careers in this fashion, and while it doesn’t always guarantee a successful career, it definitely gets you a foot in the door and puts you in front of the right people.

How Do I Get Scouted?

Being scouted is not as simple as it first sounds. There is no telling where a model scout may be; many top models were scouted in very random places including airports, restaurants, shops and even a Mcdonald’s!

However, there are some things you can do to improve your chances of being noticed by a model scout.

Know Your Stuff

The modelling industry is constantly changing, and knowing which fashion designers are in and whose faces to recognise will really give you a leg up over the competition. Study the industry you want to be in to understand it better. Check magazines and follow people on social media. Try to immerse yourself in it as much as possible and absorb any information you can. Knowing about the industry will be appreciated (and sometimes expected) by the very people you’re trying to impress. It may also give you insight into the best places to be scouted.

Know the Lingo

Modelling has its own vernacular which it’s a good idea to brush up on. Portfolios, z-cards, go-sees, casting calls… there are plenty of terms and phrases worth learning. Knowing the language will help you better engage with your peers; it will also help you look more professional and serious about a career in modelling.

Network and Attend Events

Getting scouted is all about putting yourself out there. That means attending events and meeting as many people as possible. Networking is a great way to expand your professional network and get your name and face in front of the people who may be able to open career doors for you. It’s also a great opportunity to develop relationships with potential clients, as well as learn about new products and services in the modelling world. Take some z-cards with you (modelling business cards with some photos, measurements and contact details) and make a good first impression.

Always Behave in a Professional Manner

You never know when you might meet a model scout, so it’s better to err on the side of caution and always put your best face forward. Try to be respectful and appropriate and always be polite to new people you meet. That includes people not directly related to, but still part of, the modelling industry; make-up artists, stylists, even set runners. You don’t know who might be able to land your next big break, so try to make a good impression with everyone you meet!

You should also try to dress for the job you want. That doesn’t mean walking down your local high street as if you were on the Prada runway; take inspiration from your favourite models and try to emulate their off-duty model looks. Perfect the model hair and barely-there make-up, and invest in some clothes that make you feel and look great – they don’t have to be designer! Show off your style and prove why you’d be an excellent model.

Attend Open Castings

An open casting is a bit like an open interview; it means you don’t need to be invited, you can just turn up. They’re usually advertised online, so make sure you’re following your favourite modelling agencies on social media. These castings will be fiercely competitive, but don’t let that put you off; modelling in general is a competitive industry, so you’ll have to get used to fighting for a space. Dress to show off your best features, wear hair and make-up in a simple but flattering style and get ready to really show off your dazzling personality and work ethic. If you don’t get a place, don’t be despondent; see it as a learning opportunity and be ready for the next one!

Apply Direct

You don’t have to wait to be scouted; you can try your luck at applying directly to the agencies. You can apply to as many agencies as you want, and they usually have a simple application form on their websites. You’ll need some great modelling photos, as well as your measurements including your UK dress size, shoe size, height and bust, waist and hip measurements. Make sure these are accurate. If you’re successful, you’ll be invited to visit an in-person interview. If you’re not, you probably won’t hear back. Again, don’t let this get you down – even top models face rejection, and it’s not something you should take personally.

Work On Your Portfolio

Your modelling portfolio is like your CV; it shows everyone how great you are at modelling! You can put up to 20 modelling photos in your portfolio, and you should constantly update it. If you don’t yet have any modelling photos to include in your portfolio, it’s worth hiring a photographer for a professional studio shoot so you can earn some valuable experience as well as purchase your best photos for inclusion in your portfolio. Your portfolio is the single most important tool you will have as a model; even supermodels have to have one. So make sure it’s as attractive, professional and sleek as it can possibly be. Any photos you add MUST be high-quality; photos taken with a phone will simply not be good enough. Remember that as a model, you are selling yourself. You need to think of your portfolio as a product catalogue and show off all your best features in their absolute best light. Try to also show your range, experience and talents; for example, flexibility or facial expressions. You’ll need some full-length body shots as well as up-close headshots.

What Do Model Scouts Look For?

Model scouts don’t have a set definition of what they’re looking for. Take a look at all the top models and the only similarity you’ll notice is how they all look so different! Obviously, scouts looking for high-fashion models will have more of a strict quote to meet because high-fashion models have more strict requirements, like height and measurements. So if you’re naturally tall and slender, you will have the advantage. But commercial models are more relaxed and flexible, so commercial model scouts may be looking for anyone that fits a certain brief, brand or agency.

Brands are more likely to notice you if you stand out from the crowd for a specific reason; whether that’s some unusual freckles, a stand-out hair colour, a beautiful gappy smile, or a quirky fashion sense.

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