The metaverse is rapidly becoming one of the most talked-about digital spaces, revolutionising industries from gaming to fashion. For aspiring models in the UK, the metaverse presents both exciting opportunities and unique challenges. But what exactly is the metaverse, and how does it impact modelling and photography?

This article delves into everything you need to know about modelling in the metaverse, exploring how this digital world works, the opportunities it offers, and the challenges it poses for both models and photographers.

What is the Metaverse?

The metaverse refers to an immersive, virtual reality (VR) space where people can interact with a computer-generated environment and other users in real time. It’s a collective digital universe that combines elements of augmented reality (AR), VR, social media, and online gaming. While the concept of the metaverse has been around for years, it’s gained significant traction thanks to advancements in technology and the backing of major companies like Meta (formerly Facebook) and Microsoft. It’s also featured quite heavily in the Marvel films, so it’s now a universally-recognised term.

For the modelling industry, the metaverse opens up new avenues for fashion shows, photoshoots, and brand collaborations. Rather than relying solely on physical photoshoots or catwalks, models and photographers can now work together in fully virtual spaces.

Opportunities for Models in the Metaverse

The metaverse offers exciting, unprecedented opportunities for models, particularly those looking to make their mark digitally. Here are some of the ways aspiring models can benefit from it:

1. Virtual Fashion Shows and Photoshoots

One of the most prominent opportunities in the metaverse is participating in virtual fashion shows and photoshoots. Brands are already experimenting with digital runway shows where models (or their avatars) can showcase virtual clothing collections to a global audience. These events are often live-streamed, allowing people from all over the world to attend without the need for travel.

Aspiring models can take part in these digital experiences without leaving their homes, broadening their potential client base and gaining exposure on an international scale. You can collaborate with photographers, fashion designers, and brands to create immersive photoshoots where everything, from the background to your outfit, is digitally designed.

This trend allows models to bypass the traditional barriers to entry, such as needing to live in a major fashion hub like London or New York. You can audition for virtual fashion shows or photoshoots, which means more opportunities for getting noticed by major brands, without the limitations of physical location or expensive travel.

2. Digital Avatars and Virtual Identities

In the metaverse, models can have multiple personas through the use of digital avatars. These avatars can be customised to represent your real-life appearance, or you could experiment with entirely new looks. The flexibility of creating an avatar allows you to step into different roles and showcase a wider range of styles, offering more opportunities to work with brands across various sectors – from high fashion to gaming.

For instance, models can be hired to represent characters or wear virtual outfits designed for the metaverse. As more brands develop their presence in this digital space, they will seek models to embody their vision, giving aspiring models a platform to showcase their versatility.

Digital avatars help models expand their creative expression and explore collaborations that may not be possible in the physical world. Plus, working with avatars reduces some of the pressures related to body image, as models can experiment with different aesthetics, focusing more on creativity than conforming to traditional beauty standards.

3. Global Exposure and Networking

The metaverse’s global reach provides aspiring models with unparalleled opportunities for exposure. Instead of waiting for a modelling agency or a casting director to notice your portfolio, you can proactively create and manage your digital presence within the metaverse. Virtual fashion shows, digital photoshoots, and even social events allow you to network with photographers, designers, and other key industry players without the need to attend in-person events.

Additionally, being active in the metaverse can help you build a following, gain recognition, and attract more clients. As more brands establish their virtual shops and experiences, there will be a growing demand for models who know how to navigate and thrive in this new digital space.

The benefits? You no longer need to rely solely on physical opportunities to network and grow your career. The metaverse provides an entirely new platform for you to showcase your talent and expand your reach.

Challenges of Modelling in the Metaverse

While the metaverse presents exciting opportunities, it also introduces several challenges that aspiring models need to be aware of. Understanding these hurdles can help you navigate this emerging space more effectively.

1. Adapting to New Technology

For many aspiring models, the metaverse represents an entirely new way of working. Getting to grips with virtual reality platforms, learning how to create and manage digital avatars, and understanding the technical aspects of virtual photoshoots can feel daunting.

How can you overcome this?

Familiarise yourself with popular metaverse platforms like Decentraland, The Sandbox, or Roblox, where many virtual fashion events take place. If you’re not comfortable with the technical side, seek out tutorials, workshops, or team up with someone knowledgeable in the field who can help you navigate this new world. The more you engage with these platforms, the easier it will become to work within them.

2. Competition from AI and Virtual Models

As in the physical world, competition is fierce in the metaverse. However, there’s a new layer of competition: AI-generated models and virtual influencers. These AI models can be programmed to look flawless, work around the clock, and adapt to any brand’s needs. Some brands might prefer to work with virtual models because they offer a cheaper and more flexible alternative to real-world models.

How can you stand out?

Despite the competition, real-life models bring something AI and virtual models can’t – authenticity, emotion, and personality. Brands will continue to seek real human models who can connect with audiences on a deeper level. By showcasing your unique style, building your personal brand, and staying active within the metaverse, you can ensure you remain competitive against AI-generated models.

3. Intellectual Property and Ownership Issues

As a model in the metaverse, you’ll need to navigate new concerns around intellectual property (IP). When creating a digital avatar or working with a virtual fashion designer, who owns the rights to your likeness or the digital content you create? These questions are still being debated, and regulations around IP in the metaverse are constantly evolving.

How can you protect yourself?

Before agreeing to work in the metaverse, ensure you understand the terms of any contracts or agreements, particularly around ownership of your digital likeness and the content you create. Work with agencies or legal professionals who specialise in virtual spaces to safeguard your rights.

The Role of Photographers in the Metaverse

Just as models face new challenges and opportunities in the metaverse, so do photographers. In this digital world, photographers are no longer bound by physical cameras and studios. Instead, they can create entire photoshoots within virtual environments. Photographers can manipulate lighting, angles, and even the weather to achieve their desired outcome, all without needing a traditional photoshoot setup.

For aspiring models, this means collaborating with photographers in the metaverse requires a new approach. You might find yourself posing in front of a green screen or working remotely with a photographer who directs your avatar rather than you in person.

Are you interested in becoming a model? Register with us today to find out if you have what it takes!