What’s Modelling?

A model is an individual who poses for photoshoots and walks in fashion shows to promote brand designs. Their images appear in magazines, in stores and on TV depending on the niche and intention of the shoot. Runway shows can range from international fashion weeks to shopping centre events, which both deserve a professional attitude.

Modelling is not as easy and glamorous as first appears demanding a lot of hard work, dedication and commitment. Successful models are a result of a hopeful’s determination and passion for the fashion industry. It is a very competitive environment to be a part of with only the most persistent succeeding.

How to Get into Modelling?

If you’ve ever wondered how to start, you’ve come to the right place. It is not an easy process yet armed with determination and talent you will have the best shot possible. Find our 10 top tips to succeed in the industry.

1. Decide on the type of model you want to become.
2. Research reputable agencies that specialise in your niche and have a strong reputation in their field.
3. Apply to agencies. Either fill out their form online or attend an open call.
4. Practice your poses and walk to a high standard.
5. Build a professional portfolio that showcases your talent.
6. Create a strong social media presence.
7. Take care of your complexion and physique by eating a nutritious diet and exercising regularly.
8. Be persistent. Rejection is a big part of the industry. If you don’t hear back or are turned away do not give up.
9. Attend as many castings as possible.
10. Act with caution to ensure your safety.

What Are the Types of Modelling out There?

The industry hosts a variety of different niches for male and female models to excel in. Specialist agencies cater for each type to help hopefuls who wish to pursue a career in the particular area of the fashion world. Female and male model requirements differ from niche to niche.

Top Models – The likes of Kendal Jenner, Gigi Hadid and Karlie Kloss work for top fashion houses. It is fiercely competitive and limited to tall, slim physiques.

Commercial Models – High street and catalogue brands feature models in their ad campaigns to promote the latest designs for the season. The requirements are slightly more relaxed opting for an accessible look.

Teen Models – Covering 12-17-year-olds, jobs for teens are usually for brands who cater for this age range.

Child Models – Those aged under 12 fall into the child model bracket and are used to represent a brand who designs for kids.

Plus Size Models – As a way to break into the industry, curvaceous figures are campaigning for representation. Fuller physiques are hired by plus size brands and a small proportion of mainstream designers. To become a model with this label you have to be a size 12 or over.

Fitness Models – Athletic and sports labels hire muscular female and male models to train and pose in their apparel to promote their brand. Toned abs, bulging biceps and strong thighs are required for this niche.

Body Part Models – An area for those with particularly beautiful hands, legs or feet will succeed in the body part world.

Petite Models – For those under 5’6, jobs consist of the commercial industry working for labels who cater for a tiny, small frame.

Glamour Models – This niche requires models to wear lingerie (or be completely nude) and pose in a seductive, provocative way. Only accept these roles if you truly wish to work in the glamour industry.

What’s the Best Way to Start Modelling for Teens?

It is very much the same process in the journey of ‘how to become a teen model.’ The few differences include your parent’s consent, which is essential to accept any teenage opportunities. Under the age of 18, all adolescents need your mum and dads approval to be signed by an agency or to model in a photo shoot or show. Also, their presence is required at all model jobs for teens.

As mentioned above, find agencies that are legit and suitable for your age range. The brands they work with are a big sign to determine the kind of work that you will be expected to do. Work together with your parents to understand if the organisation and whether it is suitable.

Pros and Cons of Becoming a Model

There are many positive and negatives when it comes to the model industry. It is up to you to decide whether the pros outweigh the cons. You can read more about a day in the life of a model for more details.

Pros

• Travel around the country or even the world.
• Meet lots of interesting and potentially famous people.
• Earn lots of money if you work hard.
• Be the first to wear gorgeous designer clothes with even a few freebies.
• A healthy diet and exercise routine will make you feel great.
• You get to do your dream career that you are passionate about.

Cons

• All models need to be aware of scam artists throughout their careers.
• Long hours with early starts and late finishes.
• Low pay until you become a successful model.
• Rejection happens to both new and established models.
• Work is very sporadic with models not finding work for weeks.
• Not seeing family for long periods of time.

What You Should Avoid in Modeling

The industry attracts scam artists who prey on naïve, young models in the hope of luring you into a trap. This could be a huge amount of money for nothing in return or put you into a dangerous situation. Always act with caution and never trust someone who is hiding behind a computer screen. It is very easy to look legit and professional online. Therefore, don’t agree to pay money or pose nude on Skype as before you know it they will have either lots of your cash or these images may be spread online.

How UK Models Can Help You

As a model support service, we help aspiring models begin their journey in the industry. With over fourteen years of experience, we can direct talent on what the next moves are to become a successful model. We invite candidates to our studios for a photo shoot where expert make-up artists, hair stylists and photographers work to create professional photographs to build a model portfolio. We help hopefuls on their next step and how to apply  armed with their amazing images.