If you feel comfortable in front of a camera, know how to strike a pose, and are able to turn heads when you walk into a room, then a modeling career may be just right for you. If you’ve contemplated a modeling career before, you may be wondering how to break into the industry.
As one of the premier modeling agencies in San Diego, InnoVision Talent Agency knows what it takes to succeed. We’ll guide you through how to start a career in modeling. After all, it can be a competitive industry, and you’ll want to set yourself apart from the crowd.
Here are a few of our top tips for launching a professional modeling career:
Create a Portfolio
In order to be hired as a model, people will need to know how you look and perform in front of a camera, so you’ll want to create a portfolio of photographs to show them what you can do. If you’ve already done some modeling work, you can add those images to your portfolio. On the other hand, if you’re starting from scratch, you’ll need to set up a photo shoot to create images for your portfolio.
Depending on your budget, you may want to hire a professional photographer to capture images of you modeling several looks. However, if you’re just getting started and have a friend or family member who has a talent for photography, you can grab them to help you take a few snapshots.
Ahead of your shoot, make sure you feel and look your very best. Take some time to select your outfits beforehand, and choose clothing that’s unlikely to wrinkle or shift during your shoot. Solid colors work best.
Get a full night’s rest and stay well-hydrated the day before your shoot. Practice in front of a mirror to see what poses and expressions look best. Research what type of model you want to be and ensure you get a range of images that are representative of your specific model type.
Once you’ve selected your images, you’ll want to create a photo book to bring with you on go-sees. A go-see is a job interview or a casting call for models, where they will review your portfolio and often ask to see you in action, either posing for photos or walking a catwalk.
Submit for Jobs
Once you’ve created your portfolio, you’ll be ready to start submitting for modeling work. Create an account on casting sites like Backstage or a reputable modeling agency’s website. You can search for modeling work in your area and submit directly for those opportunities.
Another way to gain exposure is by entering pageants or modeling contests. For instance, Manuela Arbeláez, a model on The Price Is Right, was offered a job with the game show after she participated in The Price Is Right Model Search. Though Arbeláez did not win the contest, she caught the eye of the show’s producers and soon landed a job on the show.
Sign With a Modeling Agency
If you’re uncertain how to launch a modeling career, want some expert guidance, or are seeking feedback on your look and modeling skills, signing with a modeling agency may be a good idea. Reputable modeling agencies will not charge you an up-front fee for representation. Instead, modeling agencies typically take a percentage of your income from the modeling jobs you book.
Here at InnoVision Talent Agency, we work a little differently. When you partner with us, you will be paid 100 percent of the talent fee we negotiate on your behalf. Instead of taking money from you, we directly bill the production instead, meaning you get to keep everything you’ve worked so hard to earn.
There are many benefits to signing with a modeling agency. For instance, a modeling agency can assist you in gaining exposure by including you in its roster, providing you with feedback on your work, and negotiating your fee to guarantee that you’re getting paid a competitive rate.
Top modeling agencies will work with you and for you, and on your behalf. As one of the leading modeling agencies in San Diego, we know the process and we do the very best we can for our clientele.
Promote on Social Media
One of the best ways to promote yourself is through social media platforms. For instance, you can create an Instagram account where you can post photos of you modeling a range of looks. You can do this while you’re traveling to an exotic locale, out for a night on the town, or pretty much anywhere, really. Just be sure the images are in focus and high quality.
When you consistently post high-quality content, you’re more likely to attract followers to your social media pages. The more followers you have, the more people who are likely to see your work. Social media is an excellent way to promote yourself and gain maximum exposure.
Work on Your Craft
Many people believe modeling is a glamorous job. While it can certainly be fun and exciting, it also takes a lot of practice and hard work. It’s not just looking good; it’s knowing how to look good in front of a camera or an audience.
If you want to be a fashion model, study how models walk on the runway. Practice in front of a full-length mirror. Familiarize yourself with the names of top fashion designers. Know your industry.
Whatever type of model you want to be, find the models you want to emulate and learn more about them. Find mentors in your industry and take advantage of networking opportunities. You should always seek to learn and grow in your career.
If you want more advice on how to succeed in this competitive industry, reach out to the team at InnoVision Talent Agency. You can also check our website for talent tips to help you as you embark on your modeling career. InnoVision Talent Agency represents people of all shapes and sizes, so if you believe you have what it takes to be a model, we believe we have the expertise to help you succeed!