Modelling is a dream career for many people, but very few get to make that dream a reality. This is often due to a perceived lack of opportunities and the misconception that only people with ‘skin in the game’ can get booked by the top brands and fashion houses. And while it’s certainly true that models who have already established themselves in the industry may get more high-end opportunities, it’s worth remembering that no matter how famous they are, they all had to start somewhere.
What we’re driving at here is that even if you have absolutely no experience in front of the camera or on a runway, it’s possible to become a model in Australia and perhaps even beyond.
But first you need to ask yourself a big question…
Do You Have What it Takes?
It takes more than a slim figure, height and a beautiful face to become a successful model. There are plenty of beautiful people in the world, so what’s so unique about you? It could be something about the shape of your nose or chin that adds to the dimension of your face, a beauty mark (think Cindy Crawford), or even how your dimples look when you smile. Whatever it is, you need to embrace it.
As far as common characteristics go, height is often considered the most important physical attribute of a model. A height of 5’7” is generally considered the minimum, but there are tons of exceptions to the rule.
For instance, having the right look is more important than height in editorial modelling. Runway models need to be at 5’8” for females and 6′ 0” for males. Meanwhile, the ability to act as a product spokesperson and have an engaging personality are the most important aspects of promotional modelling.
In recent years we have also seen an increase in niche areas like mature modelling and plus-size modelling. So as you can imagine, for those niches, the typical height requirements are thrown right out the window. So play to your strengths and look for a niche that might suit your body type or any unique attributes you may have such as tattoos or piercings.
What Type of Modelling is Suitable for You?
There are three main types of modelling and tons of niches that fall under those categories. Here are a few of the most popular that even those without experience can still consider.
Runway Modelling
Models walk the runways to showcase clothing lines for high-end fashion designers. The precise size of designer’s clothing often requires runway models to be of a certain height and size.
Glamour Modelling
This niche is focused on your appearance like body shape and facial beauty in such a way that it’s considered sexually appealing. For this reason, glamour modelling often involves posing more suggestively than other types of modelling.
Print (Catalogue, Editorial) Modelling
This is a highly lucrative niche, with models appearing in high-fashion magazines like Elle and Vogue. Editorial models might also work for top fashion brands like Gucci, Marc Jacobs, and Prada. Print modelling also includes catalogue modelling for high street brands.
Lingerie/Swimsuit Modelling
The models in this niche often tend to be curvier and more voluptuous. However, in recent years we are seeing a lot more models with ‘average’ or ‘normal’ bodies modelling lingerie in particular. Swimsuit models, on the other hand, often tend to be fitness models.
Plus Size Modelling
We mentioned this earlier and we’ll mention it again as plus size modelling is really taking off. This is because brands recognise that their target market wants to see fuller figures that better represent the general public as a whole.
How to Get into Modelling with No Experience
Here are a few tips on how to get a modelling job in one of the niches listed above with absolutely no experience whatsoever.
Build a Killer Modelling Portfolio
One of the most critical steps to becoming a top model is to build a well-rounded portfolio. It shows casting agents what you can bring to the table and should showcase your strengths through high-quality, professionally taken photos. This doesn’t necessarily mean images from modelling jobs but instead images that you hired a photographer to take of you.
You’ll need to curate a traditional, hard-copy portfolio with 8-12 images for in-person casting calls.
It also helps to have an online portfolio. You can take advantage of it to showcase the breadth of your versatility as a would-be model and showcase why brands need you as their new face.
Find the Right Modelling Agency
Every model needs a modelling agency, so get yourself signed to one. The right agent will have your back, help you direct your modelling career, refine your portfolio as needed, set up go-sees, and more.
Agencies are taking advantage of social media to scout potential talent without ever leaving the office. Using the right Instagram hashtags could even manage to land you an appointment with a talent agent.
Just remember to do your research and work only with an agency that aligns with your goals and is positive about helping you achieve them.
Word of Caution: Don’t sign with any agency that demands money upfront.
Learn to Work the Look
While different types of modelling incorporate different types of looks, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make the right impression on potential clients. Personal hygiene is a must – always have clean nails, hair, and skin.
You should always dress in clothing that emphasises your body structure. A model should also know how to apply makeup and achieve different looks within a short time. Your body and skin are prime assets in modelling, so take care of them.
But it’s not just about that. You should also have a few poses nailed down that you drop into at the drop of a hat. In fact, you want to be able to do them without even thinking about it. This helps massively if you are invited to a model casting and need to impress off the hook. So do a little homework and practise those poses in front of the mirror!
Use Your Social Media Platform
Whether you have 100 or 10,000 followers, social media offers the perfect opportunity to get your images out there and let the world know that you are an aspiring model. Using the right hashtags on platforms like Instagram and occasionally tagging companies can get you on the radar of people who may be looking for new models.
However, if you are using social media to attract talent agencies, be tactful and thoughtful. Choose your best photos and tag agencies wisely. Don’t use a scattergun approach or overdo it as you may just end up doing more harm than good.
Be Professional
Starting a modelling career is not easy, especially if you have no experience. You have to be professional to make it in this industry – answer phone calls, don’t be late to a meeting, a shoot, or a casting call; and reply to emails and voicemails promptly.
Many models lose out on opportunities because they thought they could sail through on their good looks and put in minimal effort. It’s a job unlike any other, and you’ll be working with people who value professionalism so be professional.
Learn to Embrace Rejection
Not everyone you approach or who sees your headshots will work with you, so learn to embrace rejection. Even the most beautiful supermodels were told NO numerous times throughout their careers. Criticism is normal in the modelling industry and the sooner you learn to accept it, the better off you’ll be.
Challenge yourself to shrug off rejection each week. A mindful mantra such as “Every NO is a step closer to a YES” might be just what you need to learn how to embrace rejection.
If you have no experience but think you have what it takes to make it as a model, then we want to hear from you. Get in touch today or apply to join Hunter Talent and let’s get your modelling career off to a great start.
I'm a seasoned modeling industry professional with extensive knowledge and experience in the field. Over the years, I've worked with various models, agencies, and brands, gaining a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in pursuing a successful career in modeling. My expertise extends to different types of modeling, from runway and print to glamour and promotional modeling.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article:
Qualities Needed to Become a Model:
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Physical Attributes:
- Height: Varies based on the type of modeling. Runway models typically require a height of 5'8" for females and 6'0" for males.
- Unique Features: Embracing distinctive facial or body features adds character. Niche areas like mature and plus-size modeling have different requirements.
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Types of Modeling:
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Runway Modeling:
- Showcasing high-end fashion on runways.
- Specific height and size requirements.
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Glamour Modeling:
- Focused on sexual appeal, emphasizing body shape and facial beauty.
-
Print (Catalogue, Editorial) Modeling:
- Featured in magazines like Elle and Vogue.
- Includes high-fashion brands like Gucci, Marc Jacobs, and Prada.
-
Lingerie/Swimsuit Modeling:
- Varied body types, with a recent trend towards more diverse representations.
-
Plus Size Modeling:
- Recognized as a growing niche to better represent diverse body shapes.
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Tips for Aspiring Models with No Experience:
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Build a Killer Modeling Portfolio:
- Essential for showcasing versatility with professionally taken photos.
-
Find the Right Modeling Agency:
- A crucial step for career direction and support.
- Caution against agencies demanding upfront payment.
-
Learn to Work the Look:
- Emphasize personal hygiene, dress to highlight body structure.
- Master makeup application and diverse looks.
- Practice essential poses for casting calls.
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Use Social Media:
- Leverage platforms like Instagram to showcase your images.
- Use appropriate hashtags and tag agencies strategically.
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Be Professional:
- Answer calls promptly, be punctual, and maintain professionalism.
- Acknowledge the industry's unique demands.
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Learn to Embrace Rejection:
- Rejection is part of the industry; develop resilience.
- View rejection as a step closer to success.
Conclusion:
Embarking on a modeling career without prior experience is challenging but achievable with the right approach. Building a strong portfolio, finding a reputable agency, maintaining professionalism, and embracing rejection are key elements to navigate this competitive industry. If you believe you have what it takes, take the necessary steps to kickstart your modeling journey.
