Can Being a Model Be a Side Job? (2024)

FAQs

Can Being a Model Be a Side Job? ›

Nowadays, most people that come to markets like New York City or Miami to become a model will typically have a regular part-time job that's very flexible and provides them with a secure paycheck, while taking upon gigs as a freelance model such as modeling online and acting to pay the bills.

Many people who love fashion, makeup and photography aspire to become models. Freelance modelling is a great option for people who want to be self-employed and enjoy flexibility in their jobs.

The “average model” can't make a living modeling in the traditional sense… they also bartend or wait tables, co*cktail waitress. A model that makes ”a living” modeling… live varied lives. Usually there's some exercise involved, traveling for fun and work, study for life after modeling (real estate, law school etc.)

Build a modeling portfolio using your professional photographs and any photographs from former modeling jobs. Your portfolio will show modeling scouts, agents and agencies your modeling range. Schedule a time to meet with a modeling agent or agency.

Beginners and more experienced models alike can receive $125–$175 per hour, with a two-hour minimum for all jobs. In smaller markets, commercial models can earn anywhere from $25–$75 per hour. Plus-size and catalogs models will generally be paid the same hourly, half-day, and full-day booking rates.

1. Freelancing. Freelancing is a tried-and-true way to earn extra money and deserves a top spot on any list of easy side hustle ideas. Freelancers deliver work on a per-project basis for one or more clients and you can schedule it in your spare time.

It's rare for fashion models to have real success without a very specific look desired by the agency, and if a person is older than 21 and hasn't already been working in the fashion industry for a few years, it will be very difficult to get signed by an agency and hired for fashion shows.

In any career, one must learn specific unspoken rules and etiquette to be successful. The same is true for modeling, but it can be especially difficult to learn these things when starting out because people in the industry often take advantage of newcomers.

Most models are just doing a job like anyone else to pay their bills and make a living. The negative aspects of modeling include: Not getting paid a lot of money at the beginning. You may not have work for a few weeks which will also reduce your finances dramatically.

How much do beginner models make a month? ›

Because the opportunities in the industry are so varied, modeling is a great part-time career that can still be lucrative for someone who wants to pursue their dream while having a focus on another career or while needing to have a flexible work schedule.

Models earn money everyday in every major city across the United States and around the world. While most of the high-paying jobs are in New York, Los Angeles, and Miami you can find some decent paying jobs in small cities throughout the country. The amount you earn depends primarily on the type of work it is.

In general, high-end fashion and advertising modeling can be among the highest-paying types of modeling, with some models earning thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars per shoot or campaign.

Hours/Travel

Often work very irregular hours. Most jobs are during the day, but some outdoor photo sessions may be at night or early in the morning. Work less than 40 hours a week. Must travel to auditions and bookings.

A freelance model is a professional model. However, unlike other models, they represent themselves. They don't have contracts or associations with any modeling agencies, making them responsible for finding and booking their own jobs.

Today you can deliver just about anything and get paid for it. Popular side hustles for women include driving people, working as couriers, food delivery drivers, or delivering groceries.