First off, for most online application apps, you need to keep it simple. Basic headshots are required - face, front and side views, no makeup, hair up, and down on a plain white background. Fashion models need additional full-body photos in simple clothing, while lingerie models repeat the process in simple underwear or a bikini. That's all you need. You could probably even find a plain wall and have a friend to take the pictures for you.
If agencies show interest, they'll guide you on the next steps, often recommending a starter portfolio with a trusted photographer.
Stay clear of those dodgy agencies that want to charge you thousands for a cookie-cutter portfolio on the promise of future work. They are often a scam.
Speaking of portfolios, I suggest you invest in the best photographer (preferably me :) ) and makeup artist you can afford. Setting the right tone early on attracts quality professionals and increases your chances with future clients. On that note, you are making a big time and money investment, so it's important to decide what kind of modeling you're really interested in, fashion, nude, glamour, lifestyle etc. before you start shooting.
I can help you either with application images/portfolio combination or help you create a stand alone starter portfolio. We can then book you in for top up/refresh images based on what you require.
While being scouted on a beach like Kate Moss is rare, professionalism, punctuality, modeling skills, and total reliability, and a great personality matter most in this industry. Social media has really changed the landscape, presenting more challenges, and opportunities than ever before.
Commercial models endorse products, and the market, though less glamorous than high fashion, often offer longer and more successful careers. Agencies often prioritise a relatable look over specific height or frame requirements.
So do you have a professional portfolio yet? It's important for a great first impression. Your portfolio must stand out, showcasing your versatility AND your unique style. It's like having a CV for modeling. Then there's Social Media, the upside it's a quick way to make connections and get eyeballs on your work. The downside is creating constant content, there's temptation to work with and post low quality photography. I'd recommend posting BTS reels and selfies to show personality and processes, the day in the life of a model, than crap photography.
Personality matters! Working well with other professionals, be strong-willed to handle rejection, and possess motivation, determination, maturity, and patience. Consider becoming an influencer, a popular path to a profitable modeling career.
What's in demand? Fitness, body and hand models. There's are literally 100s of ways to carve out a modelling career. Ask your agency for advice. I can also when we work together.
Petite models are in demand as high street brands recognise diverse sizes. Separate petite destinations are created both in shops and online, catering to shorter models.
For high fashion, apparently height still matters. Models need to meet industry standards, usually over 5 foot 7. However, the industry is evolving, with more diversity and acceptance and body types, I personally relish the fact. This is changing thankfully which brings us to the fastest growing part of the modelling industry...
Plus-size Models. More high street stores have woken up to the fact that women are not all the same size and shape and in doing so creating collections to tailor for curvy women. Plus-size models are embraced by the industry, featured in magazines and major campaigns. High-end agencies now have divisions catering to these models.
Interestingly is the rise of another model category. Mid-size Models.
Mid-sized models in fashion cater to individuals who fall between traditional "straight-size" and "plus-size" categories. These models represent a more inclusive and diverse range of body shapes, acknowledging that people come in various sizes and promoting a more realistic and relatable image in the fashion industry. So just a fancy way of saying they represent the majority of UK women :)
Age is just a number. There's a growing demand for older female models. Aging populations mean longer, healthier lives, making older generations a lucrative and often overlooked market for advertisers. I'll keep updating this post in the future to keep it relevant.
These days I work predominantly with lingerie, Art Nude, glamour models and content creators, you must be over 18 for these career paths. Unless glamour modelling has always been your dream job, I recommend a fashion portrait/lingerie portfolio to start with.
I also work with women looking to get into fashion and lifestyle too. I can help you put together images for your actor or model applications with more of a portrait/fashion/magazine lifestyle portfolio. The best thing is to get in touch for a quick chat.
So, are you ready to explore the diverse and exciting world of modeling? Let's talk about your potential! 😊
Patrick Falaniko
Owner & Lead Photographer | Goddess Studio | Photography for Women, London, UK & Beyond.