Commercial modeling is a type of modeling that welcomes people of all body shapes, looks, sizes, and ages. It's different from traditional fashion modeling. Here, you can work in various areas, such as catalogs, campaigns, trade shows, and TV commercials.
Let's explore how to become a successful commercial model.
What is Commercial Modeling?
Commercial modeling and fashion modeling may seem similar at first glance. Both involve promoting products and services. However, they are quite different.
Commercial modeling is a type of modeling that employs models to pose in front of the camera to promote and advertise a client's product or service.
When compared to other niches, let's say fashion modeling, where there are strict requirements, the commercial industry welcomes mature models, petite models and plus-size models.
Commercial models help make marketing materials that speak to the public. They aim to make products or services seem real and easy to understand. This can be in magazines, online ads, billboards, or emails.
What Are the Requirements for Commercial Models?
Commercial models don't need to be as tall or have a certain body type as fashion models. They should be versatile and able to fit different products or services. Basic acting skills and knowledge of the industry help commercial models do their job well.
Commercial models usually range from 5'6" to 5'11" tall and have a slim, toned body. But, the industry is now more open, looking for models of all ages, sizes, and backgrounds. To stand out, models need confidence, self-belief, and a readiness to try new things.
Commercial modeling might pay less than high fashion but offers steady work and flexible hours. It's a good choice for those with the right skills and flexibility.
Fashion Modeling vs Commercial Modeling: Key Differences
Here are some of the key differences between commercial and fashion modeling you need to keep an eye out for:
Commercial modeling invites people of all ages to work in the industry. Whereas fashion modeling has a strict age requirement of between 18-35.
In terms of height requirements, commercial models can be of any height. Fashion models, however, should have an average height of 5 ft8in for women and 6ft for men.
Attractiveness is thought of as a great deal breaker if you want to become a fashion model. They need to have a unique look with beautiful eyes, defined faces, chiselled jaw, and more. For commercial models, there are no such requirements. The idea is to represent the average population.
When we talk about work environments, commercial models and fashion models are similar in that both work in front of the camera. Fashion models pose for fashion magazines highlighting high-end clothing brands. Commercial models, on the other hand, shoot for products that are available to the mass population. Finally, you can also see fashion models walk the ramp.
Being physically fit should be the norm, no matter the type of modeling you plan to venture into. It is, however, more of a requirement for fashion models to maintain a slim and toned figure. For commercial models, it's all about having the physical strength to keep up with long photoshoots.
Getting Started With Commercial Modeling Opportunities
As a budding commercial model, you have many chances to showcase your modeling skills. You can appear in magazine spreads, billboards, television commercials, and online ads. These platforms let you connect with people and help promote products or services.
The world of commercial modeling is open to a wide talent pool from all walks of life. You might model for magazines, catalogs, or videos. You also have the opportunity to be seen on billboards, social media, and other digital places.
Whether you're good at playing everyday characters or being a brand icon, there's a place for you. The modeling niche has many commercial modeling opportunities for you to try.
With a great portfolio and the right agency, you can find types of commercial modeling jobs that fit your style. This way, you can show off your unique skills and appeal.
How to Become a Commercial Model: Step-By-Step Guide
Want to break into the commercial modeling industry? Follow these steps to get started:
- Build a Versatile Portfolio
- Agency Representation
- Keep Yourself Healthy
- Acting Skills and Training
- Maintain a Good Social Media Presence
- Have a Positive Mindset and Remain Motivated
- Choose Pixpa to Create Your Commercial Modeling Portfolio
1. Build a Versatile Portfolio
Starting your commercial modeling career means making a versatile and professional portfolio. Through a portfolio, you can highlight your skills and talent and let prospective clients know how you'll be a perfect fit for their brand.
By showing many looks, poses, and styles, you'll stand out and get more chances to model for various brands.
Your portfolio should have many images that show your natural, glamorous, and casual sides. Use different settings and backgrounds to show you can adapt. Whether it's a sleek studio shot, an outdoor scene, or a professional headshot, each photo should show how versatile you are.
Commercial modeling involves changing looks and roles often. Your portfolio should show you can easily switch between different brands and products. With a wide range of images, you'll show you're versatile and attract more clients, from fashion to consumer goods.
Want to create a modeling portfolio? Here's a guide on how to create a modeling portfolio that converts.
2. Agency Representation
Working with a top commercial modeling agency can change your career for the better. Agencies with good reputations have the right connections and know-how to help you find more jobs. They guide you in showing off your skills to clients.
They help you find work, negotiate contracts, and make sure you get paid right. This lets you focus on giving great performances. With an agency, you'll meet many clients, from big brands to local advertisers, opening up more job chances.
Research and create a list of agencies you would like to be represented by. When carrying out the research look out for agencies that possess a great track record and are representing a long list of clients.
Networking is a game changer here. Speak to other models and agencies on social media. Sign up for their newsletter to gain access to casting call information.
Working with a good commercial modeling agency makes getting ahead easier. They use their connections and knowledge to get you good jobs, deal with industry issues, and help you grow as a model.
3. Keep Yourself Healthy
Having a healthy routine and treating your body well must be the priority as a model. There may be no specific physical requirements as a commercial model but working out, following a healthy diet and carrying out good hygiene is highly recommended. The way you maintain your body will dictate the number of gigs you'll land as a commercial model. Try to look natural, only wear light makeup and don't dress too over the top.
4. Acting Skills and Training
Getting into commercial modeling doesn't need a degree, but improving your commercial model acting skills helps a lot. Models often act without speaking, using their looks and actions to sell a product. Taking acting classes or workshops can teach you how to do this well.
These classes focus on auditioning and presenting yourself on set, which is key to success in commercial modeling.
Commercial modeling is not just about looking good. It's about bringing a product or brand to life with your acting. Casting directors look for actors who can mix their natural charm with the right feeling for the commercial.
This could be excitement, reassurance, or other emotions. Improving your acting skills can boost your commercial modeling career. Being able to change your character and emotions will make you stand out.
5. Maintain a Good Social Media Presence
As we discussed in previous blogs, having a social media presence in this day and age is a no-brainer decision. Having an online portfolio and maintaining a social media presence is a good combination to boost online presence and they can work hand in hand.
Create a professional social media profile, include links to your agency and online portfolio. Build a content strategy and post content regularly by adding catchy captions and relevant hashtags. Maintain a constant communication with followers by replying to their comments and allowing them to interact with stories.
Instagram, as of now, is one of the more popular social media platforms to look for commercial models and agencies and to gain traction.
6. Have a Positive Mindset and Remain Motivated
There will be times when it will be difficult to land gigs. The plan should not be to get fazed by it, remain motivated and stick to your plan. If you're not chosen for a job, don't allow any negative mindset to creep in. Always remain positive and be true to yourself. If you have a self-belief that you can become a successful commercial model, then nothing can stand in your way.
7. Choose Pixpa to Create Your Commercial Modeling Portfolio
Create your commercial modeling portfolio today with Pixpa - a no-code site builder designed especially for creatives such as models, artists, photographers, and more to build stunning and functional online portfolios that help skyrocket your popularity.
Why Pixpa? With a library of over 150+ fully customizable model templates, all you need to do is use the intuitive drag and drop builder to build the portfolio the way you want.
Pixpa also has a long list of high-level features such as e-commerce functionality, client galleries, in-built SEO tools and more to help you share and showcase your stunning photos.
Explore our list of features here.
How Much Does Commercial Models Earn?
The salary range for commercial models on average earn between $7 to $38 hourly. The average annual salary for a commercial model is around $40,000 and the highest paid salary is $76,000 annually.
Key Takeaways
- Commercial modeling is an inclusive field that welcomes diverse body types and ages.
- Securing representation with a modeling agency can help you navigate the industry and find work.
- A diverse portfolio that highlights your versatility is essential for commercial modeling success.
- Acting skills and training are important in commercial modeling, as models often need to convey emotions and sell products through silent acting.
- The commercial modeling industry offers a range of opportunities, from catalogs and campaigns to trade shows and TV commercials.
Conclusion
Becoming a commercial model requires a combination of personal attributes, skills, and strategic efforts. It involves maintaining a professional appearance, understanding the industry, and building an online portfolio that showcases your range and skills.
Networking with fellow models, working with reputable agencies, and consistently honing your skills are crucial steps. While the journey may be competitive and challenging, staying dedicated, adaptable, and positive can open doors to exciting opportunities in the world of commercial modeling.
Ultimately, success in this field comes down to presenting yourself confidently and authentically, aligning your strengths with market demands, and continuously pursuing growth and learning.
FAQ
What is commercial modeling, and how can I become a commercial model?
Commercial modeling is for people of all shapes, sizes, and ages. It's different from fashion modeling because it's more inclusive. Models work in catalogs, campaigns, trade shows, and TV commercials. To start, find a good agency that can help you find jobs and connect with clients. Also, make a portfolio that shows you can do many things.
How does commercial modeling differ from fashion modeling?
Commercial and fashion modeling both promote products, but they're used in different ways. Commercial models aim to make products look appealing to everyone. Fashion models work in photo shoots and runway shows, showing off high-end clothes and accessories.
Where can commercial models find opportunities?
Commercial models can find work in ads in magazines, on billboards, in catalogs, on websites, and in TV commercials. They help sell products or services by connecting with people in a way that feels real and interesting.
What are the requirements for becoming a commercial model?
Commercial models don't have to be super tall or have a certain body type. They need to be versatile and fit different products or services. You don't need special training, but knowing a bit about acting and the industry helps.
How should I build a commercial modeling portfolio?
Make your portfolio show many different looks and styles. This shows you can change to fit different brands and products. Include photos that show you in natural, glamorous, and casual looks in various settings.
Why is it important to have agency representation as a commercial model?
Working with a good agency is key to success in commercial modeling. Agencies give you access to more clients and jobs, and they help you understand the industry. They also take care of contracts and make sure you get paid right.
What are the career prospects and income potential in commercial modeling?
Commercial modeling can be a great career for many people. You can earn about $250 an hour on set, plus extra fees for image or video use. These fees can be a few hundred dollars or even tens of thousands, depending on how the images or video are used.
How important are acting skills and training for commercial models?
Even though you don't need a degree in commercial modeling, acting skills are a big plus. You'll often act silently, using your face and body to sell a product. Acting classes can help you do this well and succeed in the industry.