Photo by Ilya Pavlov

If your goal is to become a model, then getting signed by a modeling agency is a major step in the right direction. Becoming a fashion model, requires patience, dedication, along access to the right resources.

With the rise of alternative modeling agencies, from male, female and non-binary talent, to plus-sized, commercial and print models of all looks and backgrounds have a real shot at getting started. These 3 industry tips can help you to get signed to a modeling agent and get scouted as a model.

Tip 1: Know Your Look

To get started as a model you have to be realistic in understanding where you would place as a talent. Many new talent start off by submitting their photographs to every agency they find online. While this can help provide you exposure, it is first important only apply to agencies that work with your specific look. It is best to search for a talent agency website to see what kind of models they featured and understand if you have a chance of actually getting signed on their talent roster. Many modeling agencies in smaller markets host open casting calls, some even virtual. Go online to find open casting calls and auditions on the official agency websites.

Tip 2: Build a portfolio

While some modeling agencies encourage talent to submit digital pictures, also referred to as Polaroids back in the 1990s, they will eventually ask for a modeling portfolio. Many top modeling agencies, especially New York model management companies, will require a portfolio to see how you photograph. Larger agencies typically will not invest in your portfolio if you are trying to become a model, however smaller agencies might help you build up your portfolio and smaller markets. Mother agents are usually found in smaller, rural areas and they have connections to larger market agencies in areas like Los Angeles, New York City, and Miami Florida.

When you are seeking out a photographer to start a portfolio it is important to make sure you research the photographer first to ensure that their experience and background working with models will actually provide you a beneficial portfolio. It is also very important to make sure that you are not spending thousands of dollars on materials that you do not need. It is better for a model to do multiple photo shoots and even smaller test shoots, then to do one big one at one time. So if you’re investing money in a portfolio, as every model should expect to do, it is better to do smaller shoots throughout the year to showcase a variety of looks in your book. Modeling Studios that focus on photography can also be helpful however do your research to ensure you are only working with the best team.

Many new models are under the impression that to get signed to an agency, the modeling company will pay for all of their start up expenses. This is completely wrong. Any new model should always expect to cover their own start up costs as most agencies do not cover that anymore.

Tip 3: Get Access To Casting Calls

One of the most difficult things that any model or even any actor will find when getting started in the industry is finding casting calls, also referred to as auditions. It is very important to make sure that you research any casting call or opportunity that you apply to. Not every opportunity is the same. There are many websites that offer access to free casting calls and there are paid services and breakdown companies that you can subscribe to. Yes, many can be costly so it’s best to only apply to casting calls once you have the right marketing materials and are confident in actually auditioning. It is best to research modeling agencies and go on their modeling Instagram page to see what they are all about and if they are legit.

Is Training or Model Schools as a Model Worth it?

Some models want to go to modeling school, or wonder if it is worth it starting out. Many modeling schools only teach runway coaching and unless you are over 5’9 as a female model, or over 6’1 as a male model, training might not be the best use of your time. Attending Model Boot Camps by Latitude can help you get access to real information as a starting model.

When you are thinking about applying to opportunities or agencies it’s best to remember that you don’t want be like spaghetti thrown at the wall. You want to pinpoint the exact submissions to the right opportunities. Any model needs to make sure that they get professional help when getting started. Latitude Talent Studios is a talent service for beginner models and actors and can help you get started. To become a model visit LatitudeTalent.com