Top 5 Tips for How to Get Into Modeling as a Beginner
Thank you all for reading my blog posts. I'm definitely grateful to help in anyway I can, as well as discuss the things that many choose not to discuss. Anyways, you're here because of my latest Instagram reel pointing out ways YOU can get involved in the industry as a BEGINNER. Now, these tips are important for every model - regardless of expertise. Let’s get into it.
Research brands and photographers that align with your vision. What kind of model do you want to be? There are many niche categories within the modeling industry, however, models are expected to be versatile, strong, and soft, all at the same time. There are so many concepts models can experiment with like editorial, runway, commercial, and more. I've linked an article that does an amazing job at explaining the differences here and here. One thing I ask of you is to take your vision seriously. The photos that appear on the Internet stay there forever - so make sure you are thinking about the kind of image and brand you want to associate with as a model in the public eye. This goes for how you post on social media, who you connect with professionally, and how to present yourself in public. Once you’ve done research and created your vision board with your dream brand/designer partnerships (Prada, A Potts, BruceGlen, Tom Ford, etc.), agencies you aspire to be a part of (IMG Models, One Management, Ford Models, etc.), and creatives you’d like to work with one day (Pat McGrath, J Bolin, etc.) then you'll be ready to move onto the next step. I’ll write another article about social media presence, how to create a vision board for your model vision, how to leverage the power of AI and media, and the overall expectations for professional models online.
Update your digitals every 2 weeks. Some days you feel like a bum and don't even want to BOTHER taking digitals - trust me, I GET IT! But the work doesn't do itself, now does it? It is IMPORTANT to take your digitals and update them every 2 weeks and whenever you have the slightest change in your appearance - this primarily includes hairstyle and skin appearance. The worst thing a model can do is not update your submissions or agency with your current look. If you walk onto set and the client is expecting your red hair, but now it's purple…chile…you are going to have a problem and will leave a bad impression. Take your digitals in natural light, wear all black or fitted light wash blue jeans with a neutral fitted tank top, and most of all, make sure to wear pointed toe black heels (best for runway and so sexy, imo!). Play with your poses and make sure to capture the following with your quality phone camera: close-up (face), headshot, 3/4 angle (half body), profile (full body), and straight on full body. Here is an article briefly explaining how to take your digitals but I'll also create some content surrounding this so you know exactly what equipment to purchase (it's cheap!) and how to pose yourself for these photos. Remember, these photos are your first impression to a client, photographer, or whomever you are pitching to! Don't take it personal if they don't like your look.
Determine which local photographers you’d like to test shoot with. It’s important to look at the vision board you created and scout any local photographers that can emulate something similar. Seeking collaboration or trade for print, also known as “TFP”. TFP is perfect for beginner models who are just starting out fresh - you model in exchange for edited photos that will elevate both you and your photographers portfolio. Most TFP involves an intentional concept so that could mean collaborating with many creatives like makeup artists, hairstylists, stylists, etc. Definitely do your research and make a list of the local creatives that are accepting collaborations and can support bringing your vision board to life (for example, grab an ad or photoshoot from your favorite brand and create a similar vibe with input from your team of TFP creatives!). I’ll write up an article further explaining how to plan and execute a successful photoshoot based on TFP. Leave a like on this article if you want to see more content like this! 👍🏾
Last 2 Tips: Learn how to pitch yourself and make sure to take care of your mind and body. As a model, especially a freelance one, you MUST know how to present yourself professionally in person and via email. It's important to always include the following aspects within your pitch email: a greeting, your introduction (full name, why you are a great fit for the brand, and where you are from), your updated and recent body measurements (include height, shoe size, waist, bust, inseam, and hips), and share your social media links, as well as the opportunity to stay connected in case the client decides to decline your involvement. Creating network connections is beneficial and will help you in the long run as long as you find others just as passionate and genuine about modeling as you are. After you draft your DM or pitch email, make sure to spellcheck it and attach your digitals for delivery. Don't be afraid to follow up as designers and creatives are so busy - sending a reminder every 1-2 weeks is a good cadence. On another note, eat healthy, take care of your body, and focus on mental wellness (yoga, meditation, reading, etc.) as the modeling industry takes a toll on so many. Take care of yourself (I’ll create some recipe reels and such for y’all later!).
At the beginning of any career, you may not make as much money or you may be making nothing. In order to become successful, get paid, and have a consistent and updated portfolio, this is where you must start. Build yourself up and you'll see how quickly things can change for you. Thanks for reading. Leave a like, share and comment and let me know your thoughts! Good luck models.
P.S. I'll be creating an email template bundle soon for a low rate. It will include tips on how to create a pitch, model resume, comp card, as well as how to introduce your very own rates so you can get paid (or atleast free product). Learning how to pitch yourself is do vital as you are the BEST advocate for yourself. The road is hard and there are thousands of models out there seeking the same shot. Put your best foot forward, do your research, and be safe. Everyone's moment comes with time - trust the process and never feel pressured to do anything you don't want to do (even IF it's for a photoshoot). If you are under 18 years old, please consult with an adult or guardian who can help support, accompany, and advise you throughout your navigation of the industry.
