How to become A Model

Modelling is a career with many faces. The many different media formats and modelling choices make it a vast industry with many job opportunities and just as much competition.

• Figure Model 
• Fashion Model

What do Models do?

A Model would typically need to:

• Enhance their appearance using makeup and accessories to advertise, display and promote the client’s products and services
• Meet with agents, designers or potential clients to try for and book jobs; sign the contract after gaining clarity on standard and specific terms of work
• Study and analyse the products and services to be promoted or modelled
• Pose for and take part in photoshoots, advertisements, commercials and live trade shows and conventions
• Collaborate with directors, photographers, designers, agents and clients to ensure the best possible outcome of a professional undertaking 
• Enter runway shows that model designer clothing, accessories, footwear and jewellery
• Pose for paintings, photos or sculptures
• Work with hair and clothing stylists, makeup artists to create unique styles and looks that help optimise their ability to sell products and services
• Follow a safe and wholesome health and fitness regimen to help maintain a physique in keeping with current industry standards
• Develop and maintain a trendy portfolio comprising all their work to date

The work environment of a Model differs according to work at hand. It may range from comfortable photo studios to elaborate runways to whatever-the-weather outdoor locations.

Travelling is an integral part of the job. You may frequently need to travel to far-flung cities to meet clients, participate in photo shoots and do research on products. 

Models typically work unpredictable and hectic schedules. They must be willing to attend photoshoots or participate in fashion shows at a moment's notice. Although your particular work routine will depend on the kind of jobs you sign up for, most models can choose between a part-time and full-time career.

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Models can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting clients directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at model agencies. Freelancing and self-employment are viable options.

Models are generally employed by:

• Advertisement Companies
• Department Stores
• Retail Websites
• Photographers
• Sketch Artists, Painters & Sculptors
• Fashion Companies

Professional associations and organisations, such as Elite Model Management, are crucial for Models interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Physical stress and boredom from having to remain in an often awkward pose for extended periods
• High possibility of damage to expensive outfits and accessories during quick outfit changes
• The need to work outdoors under all kinds of weather conditions, if necessary
• Demanding and stressful schedules with erratic hours
• Uncertain job prospects

You will gain optimal benefit from your tasks outside of the modelling school when they line up perfectly with your lessons inside it. You may get to hear countless stories from more experienced professionals and obtain valuable hands-on experience when they manage to turn seemingly routine incidents into unique learning moments.

Any previous modelling experience could go a long way towards gaining practical knowledge and securing your first job. Volunteering to participate in charity fashion shows should help give you beneficial exposure, build industry contacts, give you an insider’s perspective of the profession and acquire worthwhile expertise.

Read about the profession and interview or job shadow experts working as Models to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers. 

Although there are no fixed educational requirements to become a Model, a minimum qualification of a High school diploma, GED (General Education Development) or equivalent qualification is standard.

Most aspirants choose to go to modelling schools that specialise in instructing students how to pose, walk, apply makeup, and related tasks crucial for the job. Remember that attending such schools does not necessarily translate into lucrative job offers.

Individuals below the legal school leaving age need a licence from local government entities to begin their modelling career. Typically, licensure requires an application, processing fees, an examination, and relevant education and experience. Check in with relevant local or national organisations to confirm the need and prerequisites to obtain a licence.

Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications drive career progression. A regular workload comprising bigger and better-paid assignments and projects in magazines, print advertising campaigns, commercials or runway shows generally denotes positive growth in a Model’s career.

Modelling can also open the door to lucrative business opportunities as a Fashion Stylist, TV Anchor or Host, Actor or Fashion Journalist. Eventually, successful Models can graduate to becoming a Booker for a model agency or opening their own agency.

Candidates with modelling experience have the best job prospects.

A surefire way for a Model to advance in their career would be to craft and keep updated an exquisite portfolio of photographs and previous experience. It increases their chances of being noticed and getting more high-profile assignments. The ability to manage social media and gain a substantial number of followers will have favourable results in today’s predominantly digital era. 

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Model build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning.

The Path to Success

Most Models generally look for job opportunities through agencies. They pay agents a portion of their profits in return for access to an elite clientele. They submit their portfolio to agencies via their websites or open casting calls to find someone to represent their interests professionally.

It’s essential that prospective Models do their homework before selecting an agency to represent them since a good reputation could make or break their careers. 

There are so many different types of modelling and agencies that cater to each one that models can start their career at any age.

Karl Lagerfeld famously said, “The secret to modelling is not being perfect. What one needs is a face that people can identify in a second.” In a profession where being unique is the most valuable commodity, the chances of success are high for those driven by passion and ambition.

You should get ahead of the competition and network well. Build a good portfolio and get as much experience in the field as possible!