If you’re looking to get started in the modeling industry, here’s a friendly no BS guide to help you navigate the process. One of the first steps is to have basic pictures taken, including a headshot, body shot, and mid-body shot.
Digitals
One of the first steps is to have basic pictures taken, including a headshot, body shot, and mid-body shot.
Assuming you live in New York and don’t have any professional photos yet, there are ways to find opportunities for free collaborative work known as TFP (Time for Print or Time for Photos). One platform to explore is Facebook Groups, where photographers, models, and other industry professionals connect and collaborate. To find relevant groups, you can insert specific search terms or keywords such as “TFP modeling New York” or “modeling collaboration groups” into the Facebook search bar.
These are other examples you can insert to find more FB groups.
This will help you discover various Facebook Groups dedicated to connecting models with photographers for TFP projects. By joining these groups, you can potentially find photographers who are looking to build their portfolios and are willing to offer their services for free in exchange for the opportunity to work with aspiring models. Remember to review the group guidelines, engage respectfully with others, and discuss the terms and expectations of the collaboration before committing to any projects. In these groups, you’ll find that many photographers are seeking models to collaborate with on a TFP basis. This arrangement can be incredibly beneficial for beginners as it allows them to gain valuable experience in the industry without incurring any costs.
Ask for advice from photographers on your posing
In the early stages of my modeling career, I would often approach photographers for advice on my posing. However, some photographers may have misinterpreted my inquiries as a sign of insecurity, while in reality, I was simply eager to learn and improve my skills. It’s important not to hesitate when it comes to asking for feedback and suggestions for growth. As an example, the provided image showcases my very first outdoor photoshoot.↓↓↓
To gain a comprehensive understanding of both the modeling and photography perspectives, it is beneficial to delve into modeling and photography literature. By reading books dedicated to these subjects, you can develop insights into what makes a great photographer and model. This knowledge will enable you to appreciate the intricacies and requirements of both roles, helping you recognize and identify exceptional photographers and models in the industry. A book I swear by called The Photographer’s Guide to Posing by Lindsay Adler.
Discover your niche and determine which area of modeling interests you the most.
In the modeling industry, there are various niches and specialties to explore. These include fashion editorial modeling, fashion catalog modeling, runway modeling, commercial modeling, mature modeling, promotional modeling, parts modeling, fit modeling, fitness modeling, and glamour modeling, among others. With a wide range of options available, it’s important to conduct thorough research and gather information about each niche. By doing your due diligence, you can gain a better understanding of the requirements, opportunities, and potential paths within each modeling category. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions and choose the niche that aligns with your interests, talents, and goals.
Build an online presence
One effective way to build your online presence is by actively posting on Instagram and utilizing relevant hashtags. Assuming you reside in New York, you can optimize your reach by incorporating location-specific hashtags such as
#newyorkmodel or #nycmodel, along with hashtags related to the photography scene like #nycphotography or #newyorkphotography.
To further expand your audience, consider using hashtags that align with your modeling niche. For instance, if you specialize in fashion modeling, you can tag posts with
#nycfashionmodel or if you focus on runway modeling, incorporate #runwaymodel.
Tailoring your hashtags to your specific modeling niche helps attract the right audience and industry professionals. You get the point.
Hash tag example from New York Model ↓↓↓
Remember, the goal is to maximize your exposure and reach through strategic hashtag usage. By tagging relevant keywords and utilizing location-specific hashtags, you can increase the visibility of your posts and enhance your chances of being discovered by potential clients and collaborators.
By incorporating these tags on your Instagram posts, you can begin to expand your reach and attract the attention of photographers and brands. As a result, you may receive increased engagement and visibility on your profile. Once you have built up a portfolio in your specific modeling category, it’s time to take the next step and promote yourself to brands. This can be done by reaching out directly to brands you are interested in working with or by leveraging social media to showcase your work and tag relevant brands in your posts. Additionally, using the hashtags associated with specific brands can be an effective way to catch their attention and potentially open doors for collaboration opportunities. Remember, building relationships with brands takes time and persistence, so continue to refine your portfolio, engage with your audience, and actively market yourself to increase your chances of securing brand partnerships.
(Check out my article on using model hashtags to attract brands 👀)
Platforms to join
ModelMayhem.com (Free to join)
Backstage.com (Payment)
All casting (Payment)
Instagram (Free to join)
Discover a wide array of platforms where models can thrive and connect with opportunities. For a comprehensive guide to these platforms, check out my resourceful guide here. It’s packed with valuable information to help you navigate the modeling industry’s diverse online platforms and make the most of your modeling journey.
Emailing
Create a dedicated email address exclusively for your modeling endeavors, and if possible, consider setting up a business account for added professionalism.
Having a separate email address solely for modeling purposes allows you to keep your modeling-related communications organized and easily accessible.
You can choose a professional email address format such as “Yourname@gmail.com” or “Yourname@yahoo.com” to present yourself in a more polished manner to potential clients, agencies, or industry professionals. You may even go the business route and choose a business email such as “Yourname@yourwebsite.com”.
If you have the option, setting up a business account for your modeling email can further enhance your credibility. Business accounts often come with additional features and customization options that can help streamline your modeling-related correspondence and showcase your commitment to professionalism.
Remember, having a dedicated modeling email address helps you maintain a clear distinction between your personal and professional communications, making it easier to manage and respond to modeling-related inquiries and opportunities.
Cons of modeling
Scammers are a persistent presence in virtually every industry. Model-related scams, in particular, continue to be a prevalent issue. Beware of their deceitful tactics, as illustrated in the following example:
Frequently, these scammers offer enticing perks such as a complimentary model coach, assert that their studio operates locally, and occasionally dangle overly generous compensation figures. They might be vague, offering scant information about the actual shoot, or conversely, inundate you with excessive details. However, their common tactic is to request payment upfront before embarking on your modeling journey. Be advised, all these are telltale signs of scams.
Safety Precautions
It is essential to prioritize your safety when engaging in modeling activities. One of the most effective safety precautions is to bring along a chaperone without hesitation. If a photographer ever raises objections to having a chaperone present, consider it a red flag, as they should not be opposed to ensuring your safety. (I have had this happen before) In most instances, having a chaperone has not posed any issues. However, it’s wise to initiate a friendly rapport between the chaperone and the photographer to foster a comfortable environment.
As you embark on your journey to start and land modeling jobs, it’s essential to remember that the modeling industry is dynamic and competitive. Armed with the knowledge and pro tips provided in this guide, you are better equipped to navigate this exciting world.
Starting out, it’s crucial to build a solid foundation with high-quality digitals, comprising headshots, body shots, and mid-body shots. These photos will be your calling card, opening doors to opportunities.
Landing modeling jobs takes perseverance and professionalism. You’ve learned the importance of networking, working with reputable agencies, setting your rates, and prioritizing safety. These pro tips are your keys to success.
Stay true to your goals, be patient, and continuously hone your craft. The modeling industry rewards dedication and hard work. By following these guidelines and leveraging the pro tips, you are on the path to a promising and fulfilling modeling career
Have any tips, feel free to write below to help current or future models.
The world of modeling is a captivating yet enigmatic one, often shrouded in misconceptions and unanswered questions. Whether you’re an aspiring model or simply curious about the industry, you’ve likely pondered some of the most common queries surrounding this glamorous profession. In this blog post, we aim to demystify the modeling world by answering the most popular questions.