Want to know how to become a fashion model? Do you dream of being the next Gigi Hadid, gracing the cover of Vogue? Modeling as a career has become a much-vaunted choice now, with thousands of aspirants chasing the dream of becoming the next supermodel.
Gone are the days when you could depend on your luck to get spotted by an agency or a client. The chances of that happening are one in a million now. Becoming a fashion model takes discipline, effort, and perseverance. You must plan, prepare, and follow a strategy to stand out and get noticed.
12 Modeling Tips on How to Become a Fashion Model
After conversations with several successful models and agencies, we have compiled a list of modeling tips to help you kickstart your career as a fashion model. So here's how to get started in modeling.
- Develop your modeling skills
- Practice model poses in front of the camera
- Get a killer modeling portfolio
- Find the right modeling agency
- Do your research about the modeling agency you sign up with
- Learn to embrace rejection
- Make yourself constantly look better
- Be safe
- Be Professional
- Commit to work
- Build your social media following
- Never let your pride down
Develop your modeling skills
Study and understand posing. Practice runway walking. What separates a model from a top fashion model is their posing ability and their walk.
Modeling is an art. Whether it's binge-watching season upon season of America's Next Top Model, scanning the pages of Vogue, watching YouTube tutorials, reading modeling ebooks like glamour shots photography or finding a favorite model.
Here is a modeling tip for beginners!
Have a friend shoot photos of you to get comfortable posing, both in front of a camera and with another person.
Or start smaller, put a camera on a tripod, and practice by yourself until your confidence grows before you start your journey to become a fashion model.
Practice model poses in front of the camera
The next step to know how to start modeling is to practice in front of the camera. The supermodels you see in gorgeous magazine photos did not just sit in front of a camera and get lucky when a highly skilled fashion photographer took a picture of them. They worked WITH the photographer to create a masterpiece. Both equally skilled in their respective trade, a model will use her posing, facial expressions, and artistic intuition to help create the photographer's vision.
Having the right posing skills is an essential requirement for becoming a model. The photographer will use his knowledge of lighting, aperture, framing, etc., but in the end, it's a choreographed dance, and you need to hone your skills the best way you can. If you can't pose and don't feel confident in front of a camera, it will be 20 times harder to get a great shot. Work on becoming the best model you can be!
Browse from our list of fashion website templates and start your journey to becoming a top fashion model.
Get a killer modeling portfolio
A well-rounded modeling portfolio that showcases your strengths through high-quality, stunning images is one of the most significant modeling tips, especially for beginners looking to have a stable career in fashion modeling.
One of the first requirements from a model that agencies and clients will look at to make a great first impression is the modeling portfolio. It helps to have an online version (your modeling portfolio website) that you can send to anyone via email and a printed version that you can show when you meet someone face to face. You need all the exposure you can get to move up the ladder in the modeling industry.
Here are a few examples of fashion model portfolio websites to help inspire you to create your modeling portfolio.
Find the right modeling agency
Every fashion model needs to be signed with a top modeling agency. Getting seen requires a very simple submission: snapshots of yourself. These snapshots are commonly referred to as 'digitals' in the industry (or occasionally 'polaroids.')
Modeling agencies are looking for the most simple and natural photos possible so that they can see you for YOU.
Here are a few pointers to keep in mind:
- Submit snapshots of you wearing little to no makeup, a light sweep of foundation, and mascara.
- Do not style your hair (but do make sure it is clean), and include photos of your hair down as well as up and pulled away from your face.
- The background must be plain and not distracting (standing against a plain wall works best).
- Take photos using natural light; a friend can easily act as a photographer for you. If you have any friends currently learning fashion design, make sure to take their advice on your wardrobe selection.
- Your digitals should include the following images: smiling (with teeth, without), non-smiling, up-close headshot(s), left and right side profiles, and a full-length shot (both facing the camera and turned away from the camera). Your outfit should consist of a T-shirt (solid color) and jeans.
Here's what not to do:
- Do not include selfies, photoshopped photos, blurry/unclear/zoomed-out images.
- Don't get a fake tan.
- False eyelashes are a big no-no.
- Avoid crazy contouring with makeup (to 'cheat' and give the illusion of being makeup-free and possessing killer cheekbones and a tiny nose naturally).
- Most importantly, don't overthink, simple and natural is the first impression modeling agencies want.
Do your research about the modeling agency you sign up with
Research is the name of the game when it comes to approaching a modeling agency. Try to answer these questions for better clarity:
- Is this agency legit?
- Can their business be easily verified, and do they have any bad reviews?
- Is this modeling agency currently accepting models with your look and stats?
- What is the modeling agency's submission process (specific guidelines vary by agency, but you should be able to find this info on their website)?
- Who are the agency's past and present models?
- What are the modeling agency's most recent campaigns?
- Are they working with established brands and companies?
Once you find the modeling agencies that you feel are a good fit for you, submit digitals to your top picks. After you submit your digitals, if you receive a call to meet with an agency in person, do even more research prior to the meeting.
Brush up on prominent fashion designers, who the 'it' supermodels are, current events from the fashion/beauty/modeling world, etc. You don't need to be a walking "fashion model encyclopedia" by any means- be aware and informed.
Checkout the Best Modeling Agency Website Examples
Do check out these articles on modeling & Fashion
Learn to embrace rejection
Mentally prepare yourself for rejection- a lot of it. You MUST be able to handle having doors shut in your face without a second thought. Even the most stunning supermodels to ever walk the planet were told "NO."
Rejection is part of the territory. The sooner you understand and accept that, the better off you will be. Don't base your self-worth on appearance or anybody else's approval. Start practicing now: challenge yourself to shrug off any criticism you receive this week. See if it was easy or difficult. The harder it was, the more you need to grow a tougher skin.
Are you offended that you were just told to grow tougher skin? If so, that's precisely the point! Start practicing the ability to let all criticism roll off your back! But don't worry, everybody is capable of learning this skill with enough practice. A good mental mantra to keep in mind when it comes to rejection is: "Every 'NO' is just one 'NO' closer to a 'YES.'"
Make yourself constantly look better
Take care of your skin, hair, body, and health. In short, having a good skin care routine is essential. Like it or not, modeling is an aesthetically-driven industry, and beauty/appearance is essential. (That being said, you can still make it as a commercial model regardless of physical beauty or body type.)
However, for fashion models, the height/weight standards are more rigid and inflexible than with any other genre of modeling. There's not much you can do about genetics, but it IS up to you to make the most of the genetics you were given.
To become a model, you must adhere to your thorough beauty regimen. Many supermodels use the following habits as part of their beauty routine:
- Staying hydrated throughout the day
- Not smoking and keeping alcohol to a minimum.
- Maintaining a good skincare regime that includes exfoliating/washing/moisturizing their face every morning and evening and wearing SPF.
- Regular manicures and hair appointments.
- Taking daily multivitamins.
- Hitting the gym 4-5 days per week and maintaining a strict diet.
Looking and feeling your best will only benefit you no matter how you look at it – professionally or personally. It is a win-win. But in this case, having your beauty habits nailed down is a career advantage for any aspiring fashion model.
If you do not fit the current fashion model requirements (height/weight), there are many other genres in the modeling industry that you can pursue instead. Please read this article on the types of modeling to learn which genres you may be a good fit for.
Be safe
As a fashion model, you're vulnerable, especially when starting up. So have your guard up and be safe. Don't fall for phony modeling schools (you DO NOT need to pay money to attend any modeling school or training, period). You shouldn't have to pay for any photos to get started.
Your agency should be the one taking care of setting up test shoots. There are many other scams out there: modeling contests, unscrupulous "modeling agents" or "casting directors" or "photographers," fake casting calls that promise thousands of dollars in compensation and a photo shoot in another country, etc.
Have a sound support system in place. The modeling industry can be an overwhelming place, and it can be easy to fall prey to many other dangers (party scenes, eating disorders, etc.), especially if you are an up-and-coming fashion model.
Keep your friends and family informed of what is happening in your career. They can be a sounding board if anything sounds fishy or unusual. They can encourage you when you face rejection or hit a rough patch. Stay safe, and have a support system!
Be Professional
Regarding modeling tips, professionalism is essential. See, getting into modeling is not an easy task. You have to be a professional through and through.
Answer phone calls, return voicemails, and reply to emails promptly. There is no excuse for being 30 minutes late to a meeting, casting call, or photo shoot. If anything, you should always be 15 minutes EARLY. This takes planning and time management skills.
Aspiring models make a big mistake when they adopt the mentality: "Well, I'm pretty enough to be a model, so I will just skate by with my looks alone and minimal effort." Many up-and-coming models of the past never worked another day in their lives in the modeling industry after their unprofessionalism, lousy attitude, and reputation began to overshadow their beauty. Nobody wants to work with a diva.
See, when you book a job, you are representing both yourself and your agency. When you are on set, treat EVERYONE with respect. If your makeup artist was given a specific directive, which she followed, but you hate the way she did your makeup… well, that's too bad. She did her job, so now do yours. Produce some killer photos, regardless of your makeup preference, and without saying mean things about the makeup artist to others. Respect and courtesy will take you a LONG way in your modeling career!
Commit to work
Modeling may seem easy and glamorous, but that is not the reality. It will take a lot of commitment on your part to become a model. Are you prepared to maintain a diet, fitness, and beauty regimen, even when you are having a dry spell and not booking any work? Are you willing to do a 12-hour photo shoot in freezing and windy conditions while wearing a wardrobe that offers no warmth while still getting the shot and not complaining?
Have you accepted that it may take years once signed by a modeling agency to garner success (if ever) while your agency develops you as a model? Are you willing to travel internationally on long trips and be away from your significant other, family, friends, and the comforts of home for an extended period? Are you willing to work a completely unglamorous side job when the bookings are slow?
If your agency wants you to try a dramatic hairstyle change, are you flexible and open to it? These commitments are not meant to scare you by any means – modeling CAN be fun, rewarding, exciting, and glamorous. Just make sure you are aware of the possibilities on both sides, good and bad, and you are ready to commit no matter what!
Build your social media following
Build up your social media following and learn to manage multiple social media accounts like an expert. Believe it or not, it may help get you signed to an agency! Nowadays, modeling agencies will take a model's online audience into consideration when weighing whether to sign them or not.
Advertisers use models all the time, but they increasingly want to use models who already have a built-in audience to promote their products. A large social media following is not a requirement to be a fashion model, but it is an important attribute.
So jump on board as soon as you can. Be wise in your social media strategy and message. Know what you stand for, show your followers your authentic self, engage with them regularly, and post great photos! You can even take it a step further and start a blog, a YouTube channel, etc. Many non-intending influencers have turned into professional models because of their large followings.
Never let your pride down
No matter what, you're a human who's got feelings, thoughts, and opinions. You are so much more than just a pretty face.
Most fashion models accept the jobs they are booked by their agency, which is fine and quite standard. But if anything ever crosses the line or makes you feel uncomfortable, you need to learn to speak up and voice your opinion before it's too late.
While we just mentioned commitment as a vital attribute, there is a fine line. You should never become SO dedicated to your career that it becomes more important than yourself and your needs.
What do you stand for? Make it known from the start, and stick to it unwaveringly. The less you worry about approval and acceptance, the better off you will be. Know when to put your foot down, and always have your own back. After all, if you don't have your own back, who else will?
How Many Types of Fashion Models Are There?
As you consider becoming a fashion model, a great modeling tip for beginners is to assess and evaluate what type of model you want to be.
Here are some of the different types of modeling careers to pursue:
- Runway Modeling
- Plus-Size Models
- Fitness Models
- Glamour Models
- Alternative Models
- Parts Model
- Promotional Models
- Fit Models
- Petite Models
Think about your strengths and interests. For instance, if you have narrow and slender fingers free of wrinkles or scars, hand modeling can be a great option for you to venture into. Or if you possess an athletic body, fitness modeling can be an avenue for you.
Related: 15 Types of Models: Which Category Fits You Best?
What Are Some of the Important Modeling Terms?
During your journey on how to start modeling, there are certain industry terms you need to be aware of. Here are some popular terms for your first audition (Go-see).
Comp card: The card contains vital information about the model, such as stats, photos, and contact info.
Go-See: Basically an audition. The client might want to see the available options in person.
Square to the camera: When the photographer wants a model's face and body positioned towards the lens.
Tear sheet: A clip from a print job or magazine the model has previously worked on.
New face: A model who is new to the agency and is still in the process of being booked by a client.
One plus one: When the model is contracted to work for a one-hour modeling job with the possibility of working an additional hour.
Checkout Health and Wellness Website Templates
Why choose Pixpa for your modeling portfolio?
Still in the thought process of how to start modeling? Start your journey by creating a model portfolio website.
Introducing Pixpa, a no-code website builder with everything a model needs to create an eye-catching portfolio website.
Land modeling gigs by simply choosing from our list of 150+ creative and customizable templates to showcase your stunning photos and manage appointments with casting directors.
Take a look at the features we offer and start your 15-day free trial today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a fashion model?
There are many different categories of fashion models. So, the first thing you need to do is figure out what kind of model you want to be. Once you have a category determined, you will need to start setting up a fashion design portfolio, which you will need to submit to various agencies so that you can start landing modeling gigs.
What should a fashion model be like?
Generally, fashion models are expected to be tall and capable of wearing many different looks and clothing. While maintaining a skinny figure used to be a common requirement, plus-sized models are also increasingly in demand these days.
What level of education is needed to become a model?
Obtaining a high school degree can prove useful, but it is not that important. Certain fashion models are or begin their modeling careers at 16 or younger.
Good mathematical skills and reading proficiency will help models understand technical aspects such as contracts and budgeting.
What is the age limit for a fashion model?
Between 16 and 60 can be the typical modeling age. However, the age requirement depends on the project and the client's needs.
Will I be able to model with tattoos or scars?
Having scars or tattoos will not prevent you from becoming a model. Again, it depends on the client's requirements, size, and location of tattoos or scars. If the tattoos fit your style, then you’re golden. Regarding scars, embrace them and don’t think about them too much.