Do You Have To Pay To Be A Model?

Do you have to pay to be a model? Theoretically no, BUT it really isn’t as clear cut as that.

For example if you were walking down the street and you were to be approached by a modelling scout who was willing to pay for your test shoots, all your travel expenses, meals etc etc etc then effectively you don’t have to pay to be a model. But that just isn’t the way the modelling industry works for most people. Here’s how it usually works for most people trying to become a model.

Paying For Your Portfolio As A Model

Your portfolio is your investment into your future as a model and you shouldn’t treat it lightly. The internet is full of forums and chat rooms taking of model agency scams and in this some instances this is probably justified but regardless of those particular circumstances nobody is likely to ever get a free ride on their journey. Even for those lucky few people to be picked up by top fashion agencies who have their portfolio paid for up front the models are still usually considered an independant contractor and the fee invested into your shoot an investment that is usually claimed back from your first paid shoot. It is also worth remembered that if an agency does pay for your shoot then they will often retain the copyright to those photographs which means you would not then be able to use those images to try and obtain other work.

Working Expenses

If you are serious about becoming a model then you should treat your decision with the same importance as running a business, complete with a plan of action. This means that like any other business you will incur costs. These are the other expenses that you will likely occur on your journey and they include simple things travel to see agents (including your meals), your hair and makeup, your clothes, your modelling classes (you want to be taught how to act like a professional model right?), your cards / business cards etc. Of course, these can all be optional expenses because you may be able to catch a lift to a shoot, use your regular make up and clothes etc but the point is that each situation is different for everybody – you may have to take time away from your education or job to pursue your modelling career. All of these have the potential to carry a personal cost.

On Going Costs

Remember that not everybody makes it as a model and you really should be prepared for it not to work out. That’s not to say you shouldn’t go for it with everything you’ve got but it does make sense to be prepared for a long run if required.

In short:

• Do you have to pay to be a model? No, but you should be willing to invest in yourself to get there.
• Every situation for different people is unique and you will find that this applies to your expenses too.
• If you sign with an agency who pay for your portfolio then it is unlikely that you will be able to re-use those photographs to pursue other work without their prior written permission.
• Pursuing a modelling career can be a long journey for some people so the amount of funding you put into your this pursuit can vary, you should hope for the best and plan for the worst.
• Plan your time away from work or education to model without incurring any loss of income or education.

If you are interested in modelling, your teenage years are actually the best years at which you can get started on this career path. The modelling industry is famously easy for teenagers to get into. If you have the right look and have a passion for it, you stand a chance to gain fame and fortune in equal measure doing what you love. However, do not be lied to. The modelling industry is about so much more than the glitz and glamour that is associated with it. There is so much more that goes into it that photo shoots and fashion shows. It is also incredibly hard to get into, so if you are not absolutely sure this is the career path you want to take, it is actually easier and more worth your while to stay in school and choose another career that you are more passionate about.

That being said, if you are a photogenic teenager that is absolutely set on being a model, you need to understand that there are a few key traits that everyone who makes it in this industry has. You need to be persistent, hard-working, focused and resilient. If you do not have all these traits, you will likely give up along the way when the going gets too tough, because things will definitely get tough. However, if you have all these traits, then this article is for you. Here is how to become a teenage model using a more traditional path than simply contacting ourselves first.

That’s right we are a talent seeking organisation looking for people like you. We work closely with professional modelling agencies to provide the right people they are looking for. We have the power to help kick start your teenage modelling career and all you need to do is simply fill this form in.

But we wrote this article for people looking in search engines for how to become a teenage model, here’s an overview of a more traditional entry to your career path (or you could just contact us).

The Preparation

Before you dive into the deep end, you need to prepare and be sure that this is exactly what you want. To this end, you need to:

1. Do your research

2. Be realistic

3. Talk to your parents

4. Consider modelling school

5. Read magazines

6. Keep an eye out for experience opportunities

7. Watch your body

Once you have done all these and built up your confidence and experience, you can finally start contacting agents and agencies and putting yourself out there, waiting for your career to take off.

1. Do Your Research

Doing your research is arguably the most important step in your journey. You need to know what you are getting in to. Are you completely sure you enjoy modelling and everything that goes with it? Read about the required traits in models, and be sure that you have each one. You should also find out all the different types of models and the different fields of specialization. What works for you?

Broadly, there are three types of models:

– Fashion models

The most common type of models. They walk on runways and showcase the different fashion designs of different fashion houses or designers. They also pose for photos wearing these designs. If fashion shows and runways are your thing, then this is the type of model you should consider being. You need to be thin, tall and not curvy. Height requirements are usually specific to agencies, but generally, you cannot be shorter than 5’8″.

– Commercial Models

If TV or print ads are more up your alley, then commercial modelling is for you. Commercial models come in a wider variety of shapes and sizes, and their choice usually depends on the requirements of the marketing campaign.

– Plus Size Models

If you are larger than a size 10, then you fall into the plus size model category. Plus size models can also be fashion models or commercial models. They model plus size fashion or accessories. Again, you cannot be shorter than 5’8″.

– Part Models

Do you have a really pretty foot or hand? Do your nails or hair particularly stand out? You might have the qualifications of a part model. Part models usually model specific body parts. You can specialize in your favourite body part and showcase only that part. To be a part model, there are no specific requirements of general body type.

2. Be Realistic

Modelling is very competitive. It is also very superficial. You will be judged almost solely by your looks. To be a teenage model, you need to accept the fact that you may not always be the best-looking person in the room, or the agent may be looking for a particular set of traits that you do not have. Rejection is part of being a model, and you need to make peace with that fact. If you are short, consider a different career path.

You will also not make much money as a model. Models usually rely on one or two really big jobs which pay well. These are few and far in between. If you are passionate about modelling, consider having an additional alternative source of income until your modelling career really takes off. This may take years, so it is best to stay in school and find something you love that can pay the bills after you are done as you pursue your modelling.

As a teenager, you are young. You have your whole life ahead of you, so you may look at the world through rose coloured glasses. However, you need to be realistic. Modelling is a career choice that should only be driven by intense passion. If you have doubts, stay in school and come up with other career options that you can enjoy.

3. Talk To Your Parents

If you are a teenager below the age of 18, you need parental consent before any doors can open for you in the modelling world. Tell them about your plans. Make them understand your passion, and assure them that school still takes the centre stage for you. Take your time trying to convince them, because not all parents will be open to the idea. If you have to, give them some time to process what you have said and talk to them about it again in a month or two.

4. Consider Modelling School

If your parents allow it, take a few modelling classes. You will learn how to find your inner confidence, how to build your portfolio and the ins and outs of the modelling world.

It is important to note here that not all modelling schools are legitimate. Some are scams, and it is up to you to do your due diligence and protect yourself. Check their credentials and look them up with your local authorities to make sure their certifications are legit.

If you can’t afford it, modelling school is not necessary. The Internet is an amazing resource if you know what you are looking for. Take advantage of it.

5. Read Magazines

Before the internet, aspiring models had to rely almost solely on magazines to learn the basics of modelling. Do not ignore fashion magazines. They have so much to teach you. Collect them and study the model poses. What works best on camera? What do you like? What don’t you like? What can you change? How would you change it? Get a mirror and practice in front of it. Copy, then personalize. Make them your own. Take a few photos of yourself and ask friends for some honest criticism. Let them correct you. It will help you build the thick skin you need in this industry.

Confidence is everything to a model. And confidence takes practice. Get used to the poses and let them come naturally to you. Your confidence will ooze in front of the camera.

6. Keep an Eye Out For Experience Opportunities

It is important to have at least a little experience before you dive into the deep end. Keep an eye out for opportunities to build on your experience, because they may come in form of anything. A family Christmas card photo? A friend’s photography class assignment? A volunteer fashion show? You will likely not get paid much to do any of these, but they’ll give you a feel of how it feels to be photographed. If you get the chance to pose in front of a crowd of people such as on a runway, take it. Find out how you like it because that will likely be your life if you become a model.

These opportunities are also great in helping you build your portfolio, which is essential in securing that first meeting with an agent.

7. Watch Your Body

As a model, your body is your temple. It is your entire career. You need to take care of it. As a teenager, it is easy to ignore the consequences and eat whatever you like or fail to eat essential foods. However, gaining or losing too much weight can end your career before it begins. Work hard to maintain your ideal shape. Work out, eat well, stay active. Drink a lot of water, get enough sleep and exercise your mind, too. Be healthy and look radiant, because modelling is all about putting your best foot forward.

8. Agents and Agencies

This is how you get those modelling jobs. Agents and agencies link you up with companies that require modelling services, which then pay you.

What You Need To Do

– Get Your Portfolio in Order

You need to have a portfolio before you approach modelling agents or agencies. Your portfolio is a collection of your past modelling projects, headshots and general pictures of yourself. If you have never gotten a modelling gig, just make sure you have photos that showcase your range of looks and your face at different angles. Remember to include one or two photos with no makeup on and your stat sheet, which shows your height, weight, body measurements, eye colour, skin colour and hair colour.

– Open Calls

If there are any open calls, apply to them. Ask your parent or an adult to help. Open calls are invitations for consultations put out by modelling agencies. Again, just make sure what you are responding to is legit.

-Submit To Ourselves at Junction 8 Models

Submit your portfolio to ourselves and we can help make contact on your behalf.

Meeting An Agent

When you meet an agent, confidence and professionalism are key.

– Make sure to have done thorough prior research about the company

– Arrive on time

– Make sure your portfolio is in order before you arrive

– Dress well. A t-shirt and jeans that look good on you will do

– Do not put on too much makeup, as the agent needs to see your natural look

– Act natural, and be confident

– Relax and have fun, do not appear nervous or self-conscious

– Do not be rude or unprofessional

Final Thoughts

Getting into the modelling industry is an amazing way for teenagers to make some income, and it opens up a world of opportunity for them. It also teaches you a lot more than what conventional schooling does. However, remember that it is a very competitive industry, which means that your career may take a while to pick up. If you are young, staying in school while you pursue modelling is the wisest decision. Find a mentor who can walk with you on your journey, and follow their advice. Hopefully, these tips begin to give you an understanding of how to become a teenage model.

If you always get compliments on your looks wherever you go, and you are a photogenic 16-year-old, you may have considered being a model. It is an open secret in the modelling world that your teenage years are actually the best time to get started in it, as proven by some of the biggest names in modelling. However, you should know that it is not an easy industry to get into. Most young people believe that modelling is all about the glamorous lifestyle: photos and travelling and hotels and fashion shows and having fun. The modelling industry is about so much more than just these. And it takes a special kind of person to make it big in this industry. A persistent, resilient, focused and hardworking person who knows what they want. If you are confident that you have all these traits, and you believe modelling is the career path for you then please get in touch with us, we’re always looking for new talented people looking to be a model at 16 years old – please fill this form in.

We wrote this article for people searching for how to become a model at 16 years old and won’t disappoint you. However, this is a traditional route and we’ve already mentioned we can help you considerably by putting you in front of the people that really matter. Otherwise read on for a more traditional approach…

1. Research

Before you think about anything else, the first step you need to take is to do some thorough research. You need to be sure that you will enjoy modelling and everything that goes with it. What traits and qualities do you need to have? What does the industry expect of you? Do you know the different types of modelling and the options available to you? Find out what type of modelling you will be most comfortable with and what it takes:

– Fashion models are the type of models most people think about when they think about professional modelling. Fashion models walk runways at fashion shows and pose for editorial photo shoots. Fashion modelling requires you to be at least 5’8″ tall, thin and not curvy.

– Plus size models are models who are a little bigger. They model plus size fashion mostly. You have to be at least 5’8″ tall and at least a size 10.

– Commercial models are models who are more versatile, posing or starring in TV ads, magazine ads or catalogues. This type of modelling is more accepting of variety, so models tend to come in various shapes and sizes.

– Part models are models who only showcase specific parts of their bodies. You can be a hand model, nail model, foot model, hair model, or any other body part model. There are specific sets of criteria that need to be met for each part you want to pose for, but your body, in general, can be of any size or shape.

2. Have Realistic Goals

Modelling is a very competitive industry. It is also the most superficial industry, which means that your level of success depends on your looks. Height is one of the main disqualifying factors, so if you are short and you are still holding onto dreams of becoming a successful model, you are lying to yourself.

Don’t expect to make much money till you are actually quite successful, which may take several years. There are very few supermodels in the world today, and you very likely will not be one of them. The mean hourly wage for models in 2017 was £15. You might get one or two jobs that pay really well, but they are very few and far in between. For runway shows, you may get paid in “trade”, which means the organisers give you free designer clothes and no money.

At 16, only pursue modelling if it is a very strong passion of yours. If you have any doubts, it is important to finish school first and think about other careers that you love and enjoy.

3. Talk To Your Parents About It

This is very important. As a person under the age of 18, you can only get access to the industry with express permission from your parents. You need to talk to them about your plans, otherwise, you will hit many roadblocks.

When talking to your parents, making them understand how important this career path is to you is essential. Share your research with them to show them how serious you are, and assure them that school is still a priority for you. If your parents are opposed to the idea, instead of fighting them over it and making them more firm in their resolve, give them some time to think about it, and bring up the subject again in a month or two.

If their primary concern is your schoolwork and how your modelling will affect it, consider reassuring them by setting certain targets such as specific scores or performance in school that if you pass, you can pursue your modelling.

4. Modelling School

With your parent’s permission, you can take a few modelling classes. They are great with helping you boost your confidence, build your portfolio, and understand what it really takes to be a model.

However, if you cannot afford it, modelling school is not a necessity. In today’s day and age, you can easily learn a lot through YouTube and other online resources. Just treat the internet as your school and do your research well. Find authorities on the subject and take their advice. Write notes and refer to them later.

When you select a modelling school, make sure that you are not getting scammed. Check the relevant authorities to certify their credentials and certifications before paying any money to them.

5. Magazines

Magazines are a great resource for aspiring models. You need to collect as many magazines as you can and study them. Look at how the models pose. Look at the types of movements that work well on camera. Practice in front of a mirror. Get a friend to take a few amateur photos of you. Look at them and try to figure out what you are doing wrong. Being good in front of the camera rarely comes naturally. It takes a lot of practice to know exactly what to do in a photo shoot.

Confidence is key in this industry. The only way to become confident in doing something is by getting used to doing it first. This is why you need to practice in front of a mirror. You can even create a few moves of your own so that you will feel completely at ease in front of the camera.

6. Local Opportunities

To get your foot into the industry, you need to get some experience. You need a resume and portfolio before anyone can take you seriously as a model. A great place to get all these is from your local community. Do you know any businesses needing models for a few ads? Or a charity fashion show looking for volunteer runway models? Do you have a friend who needs a model for a school project? Taking advantage of these opportunities will not be about the money, because there is very little money in it. Instead, you will be building your confidence, your portfolio, and getting an actual feel of what it will be like to do this for real. You will figure out whether you enjoy it or not, and whether you can see yourself doing it several times a week for the next decade or so as your main job.

7. Watch Your Weight

As said before, modelling is a very superficial industry. Your value as a model almost completely depends on how you look. Maintain your ideal shape by not gaining or losing more weight than you need to. Eat healthily and exercise. Drink plenty of water and get enough sleep to make sure you look healthy enough for agents.

8. Agents and Agencies

Before you can start reaching out to agencies, you need to make sure you have a portfolio of your past modelling work. If you are just starting out, you still need a few photos of yourself that look good. Can you hire a professional photographer to take your photos? If you cannot afford it, reach out to a friend or family member with a good camera and ask them to take your photo. Your portfolio must include headshots with your face from different angles and full-length photos. Show your range of looks by mixing up smiles and straight face photos. Have one or two no make up photos. Finally, have a page with your stats, which are your measurements, hair colour, eye colour and weight.

Once your portfolio is ready, apply to open calls. Open calls are modelling agency events where they invite aspiring models for consultations. Just make sure all the agencies you respond to are legitimate and reputable.

If there are no open calls, submit your portfolio to modelling agencies anyway. Find out how to do so from their websites or by visiting their offices in person.

When you meet an agent, you need to be professional in everything that you do. Do your research on the agency and have a good feel of the company before you go. Arrive on time, have your portfolio ready, and dress appropriately. You do not have to get an expensive suit. A casual pair of jeans and a t-shirt would do, as long as you look presentable. Also, remember, wear little to no makeup for your agent visit, because they need to see the natural you.

Act natural, and let the agent see your personality. Engage them in conversation, relax and have fun. Make them remember you. Do not be rude or unprofessional. Express your passion for modelling to them. Also, remember to watch your body language, and not to appear nervous, defensive or self-conscious.

Finally, remember that rejection is a possibility, and you need to handle it with dignity. Prepare to be rejected, and do not take it personally when it happens. It is not about you. The industry is very competitive, and you will likely not get in on your first few tries. You need to keep persisting and stay determined, because it is your resilience that will finally get you to hear a yes.

Final Thoughts

The modelling industry is one of the easiest to get into as a teenager. Most other industries do not hire people at this age. Being a model builds your confidence and opens you to a world of opportunity.

Your modelling career may take a while to develop. If this happens, consider branching out into other related fields, and doing it all concurrently with your modelling. For example, you can get into fashion marketing or merchandising and do it at the same time as your modelling. Also, if you can find one or two mentors who have more experience in modelling than you do, it helps to keep them close. Hopefully, these tips begin to give you an understanding of how to become a model at 16.

Over the last few years, the fitness world has exploded in popularity, thanks to social media. This surge has led to more people than ever pursuing fitness modelling. Unfortunately, the number of people looking into this industry as a career is way higher than the number of fitness modelling jobs out there. Therefore, those looking to become male fitness models should look for ways to stand out from the crowd. To achieve this edge, you will need to work incredibly hard, network and jump in with both feet. In this article, we are going to help you understand the critical steps to becoming a successful fitness model.

But before you start to read further, what we do as a company is we are scout for modelling agencies and have direct contact with people who can boost your male fitness modelling career. The article below represents a path most commonly taken by people en-route to their career, on the other hand please just our contact form and we’ll put you in touch with the people who can make a real difference. 

With that said, please read on…

Step by step guide on how to become a successful male fitness model

Set goals

Before starting out on this career path, we highly recommend that you take the time to make some concrete decisions for your success. Spell out your goals and figure out how you will achieve them. Are there sacrifices that you will need to make? Are you willing to make to make them to achieve your fitness modelling goals? Carefully thinking this over will significantly increase your chances of succeeding in this industry.

On average, male fitness models need to work out 6 to 7 days a week. You will spend a good amount of your time planning and preparing your meals and concentrate on building your professional male fitness model profile. While you might be able to juggle all this and still keep your 9 to 5 job, it will not be easy. If you are serious about a career as a fitness model, you may have to let go of employment. Whatever you decide on, take the time to think it through to make the right choice and compromise where necessary.

Hit the gym

Male fitness models don’t conform to conventional fashion industry standards of height and good looks, but rather, their musculature. This musculature is usually the result of nearly full-time dedication to diet and exercise. You need to work out to achieve and maintain a breadth that is wide, but in proportion to the rest of your body. You will need to build muscle for aesthetics, which requires a special type of training.

Engage in compound exercises for strength, instead of doing activities that focus on sculpting one muscle group. This will help you burn more calories faster and sculpt your whole body. Weight lifting is also much more useful for burning calories and building lean muscle. If possible, find a personal fitness trainer to guide you and tailor appropriate exercises to help you achieve your goals. You also need to look healthy all over including your hair, and skin- preferably tanned.

Diet

Another important step to becoming a male fitness model is providing your body with all the right nutritions and insufficient quantities. Fitness modelling is all about maintaining muscle while staying at a low body fat percentage. You can consult a personal trainer or dietitian to develop a personalised regimen.

Know your niche

What do you want to get out of the fitness modelling industry? What is your goal? To get on magazine covers or spreads? To partner with Nike, Reebok or Under Armour? It is crucial that you find a specific niche to work in. This way, you will not waste your time looking for editors or trying to get commercials that are not in your niche.

Practice in front of a camera

When starting out, we do not recommend spending top dollar on the best photographer right away especially because you still have to figure out what niche you like. Find an affordable photographer to help you practice making different poses, and facial expressions.

Get a professional photographer

Once you’ve had some good practice, start looking for the best photographers that has experience working with male fitness models. The goal is to find someone with experience to teach you the best poses that put emphasis on your best features and conceal flaws like fatty areas or scars. If possible, search for an prominent photographer who gets their photography published in magazines.

When looking for a professional photographer, it’s important to send them a couple of your amateur photos to help them prepare and give you pre-shoot feedback on what you need to do or work on so you are adequately prepared for the shoot.

Promote yourself

Create a professional portfolio that contains all your professional photos and details like your height, weight, and body measurements. Go to as many auditions and casting calls for male fitness models. Read as many fitness magazines to educate yourself on the different requirements expected foe the fitness models. Visit fashion businesses and modeling agencies and submit your professionally done portfolios. If possible, make a calendar that features your fitness photos and share them with fashion businesses.

Find a reputable modelling agency

Although you can book a lot of gigs on your own, getting an agent can help speed up things. These agents have contacts and connections that you don’t have. An agent will help you get jobs in your area and beyond. This, however, does not mean that you stop looking for opportunities on your own. When looking for a modelling agency to work with, avoid those that charge you to be in their portfolio. A good agency should deduct a certain percentage of the work they find you. On average, most agencies deduct 20%.

Submit your photos to modelling agencies

When submitting your portfolio to modelling agencies, make sure it contains a head shot, full body, and an action photo – do not just pose. Perform a workout activity or pay the sport. Most modeling agencies offer the ability to submit photos online. Make sure you send out high-quality images that are yours to use.

Reach out to editors

LinkedIn provides an excellent source for editors. Take the time to reach out to a bunch of editors and introduce yourself to them. Tell them why you love their magazine and why you want to be featured. Ask them to contact you if there is ever an opportunity for you to provide content.

Since editors are always looking for good pieces of articles to put in their magazine or online if you can include an article, the better for you. Still be willing to go over and beyond to help them up. Building a good relationship with decision makers is white. If after months you hear nothing from them, do not hesitate to send out another email with an article and state that you are still interested in providing more content. This is a go-getter step.

Compete

One of the best ways to get found as a fitness model is by getting into as many competitions as possible. Shows like NPC offer male fitness models a chance to land proper fitness modeling endorsements. There are many magazine and supplement companies that attend these events to find new talent. Strive to go to all the big expos you can find and compete in them. They offer the best platforms to network and get noticed in the fitness industry.

Network

The male fitness industry provides a myriad ways to network. Try to network with successful people in the industry. If you can train with them, get on their podcast or guest blog articles for them, the better for you. This will help get your name out there. You will also get a chance to learn a few tips from them. Volunteering on unpaid gigs is another great way to get your name out there. In the process of networking, make as many friends in the industry as you can.

Leverage social media

If you are finding it hard to find work through traditional outlets, work hard at building your online brand. Thanks to the rise in social media, you are no longer limited to the old-fashioned ways of advertising yourself or pitching for jobs. Use your social media to your advantage to put yourself in front of potential employers. Make as many waves through platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat and YouTube, and the employers will come to you.

Improve

The fitness modelling industry is a competitive one. Hence, it is crucial that you continue training and improving your physique with each competition and photo shoot. The more you develop your form, attend shows and shoot with professional photographers the better your chances of success.

The bottom line

In the male fitness modeling industry, success does not happen overnight. It is work in progress that takes a lot of hard work, determination, and persistence. If you put in the work and dedication, you will be surprised at the opportunities that will come knocking your way. Start small, and build a pristine portfolio. Set a few goals, diet down and reach out to as many decision makers and if possible, provide content. If you are serious about this dream, do not be disheartened by the “NO” Just because you don’t get accepted the first time does not mean you are not good enough. Pick yourself up, polish your techniques and build on your strengths. Before you know it, you will get calls for regular jobs.

OR AS AN ALTERNATIVE SIMPLY CONTACT US

All of the above is an awful lot of work but that’s where we come in. We work on behalf of modelling agencies to scout for talented people and we can remove the barriers of entry for you. Simply get in touch with us and one of our agents will be in touch to give you some advice on the next steps.

Today, fitness models are among the most popular and sought-after models. These models have perfected the art of blurring the line amidst the fitness and fashion worlds. Becoming a fitness model could be a turning point in your life. Apart from having a significant impact on the people who follow you, it gives you an opportunity to make money while still being healthy.

We have written this article to show you what people often need to do in order to become a fitness model. What Junction 8 Models can aid you with is we work on behalf of modelling agencies looking for talent. Simply get in touch with ourselves using our form and we’ll put you in touch with an agency that can help boost your fitness modelling career.

On the other hand please read the article below which shows a more traditional route into a fitness model career.

How to Become a Female Fitness Model

Physical requirements of fitness modelling

One of the good things about fitness modelling is that physical requirements are not as strict as other modelling niches like fashion and runway. In fitness modelling, your body type matters more than your measurements. You need to be lean and physically fit, with firm muscle tone. As a woman, your height should range anywhere between 5’4″ to 6″.

Other than having an in-shape body, as a fitness model, you also need to be attractive and healthy looking with great skin, a beautiful smile and glossy hair. You need to have a commercial, marketable look that appeals to a wide range of clients and consumers. If you want to become a female fitness model, here is a step by step guide to get you there:

Prepare Your Mind and Body

When getting into fitness modelling, you need to determine your “why.” Why are you venturing into fitness modelling? Is it to inspire others, earn a living, make a name for yourself, enhance our resume or to connect with a larger audience? Whatever, your reason, make sure it is not a selfish one.

Be in shape

In fitness modelling, your body is the most important tool. So get it where it is supposed to be before you launch your career and start applying. This could mean building some more muscle or losing a few pounds to get that cut and shredded frame. Anyone should be able to see you and immediately know that you are experienced in training. You must also have a significant muscle definition.

Lead a healthy lifestyle

You must be accustomed to a healthy lifestyle. Working out for barely six months will not cut it. For you to be a successful female fitness model, you need to practice what you preach and look the part.

Determine your niche

The female fitness modelling industry is open to people of all ages and colours. To make yourself more marketable as a fitness model, highlight what makes you different and unique from the rest. If you love playing volleyball, hiking, or cycling, you will appeal more to outdoor adventurers. If you are a busy mother who finds time to work out in between your work and home, you will connect better with parents.

Pick a category

You also need to pick a category of fitness modelling to work in.
• Magazines/Publications (local, national, international)
• Video/Commercials Sponsorship with supplement or fitness companies
• Advertisements
• Online/websites (blogs, online magazine websites)

Get comfortable in front of a camera

While body, love, and self-confidence is something people acquire as they get into the fitness world, conveying this in front of the camera is a task and an art in itself. Still, it is a crucial part of being a fitness model. Take the time to watch videos of how other professional fitness models do it. Look at their photos, get in front of your mirror and practice different movements to get one that best highlights your best points and a killer pose so you will be ready when you are asked to. You need to learn to be one with the camera without feeling uncomfortable.

Build Your Fitness Brand

Whether you are looking to be discovered at shows or expos, apply to email publications or model agencies, you will need to get a few business essentials ready first.

Cover letter or pitch

A good pitch or cover letter should be no longer than a paragraph long. Avoid addressing it to “Whomever It May Concern.” Instead, address it to a specific person. Include your unique points and what sets you apart from the rest in the market when writing your cover letter. Share your story and any challenges, conquers and resolutions you have gone through, why you think you are the perfect candidate for the position and how you will make their work easier. Keep the cover letter short and sweet. The goal here is to be personalized, catchy and unique.

Create a CV

A good fitness model CV should fit on a single page. It should include;

• Name
• Modelling experience if any. This section should be in list form and should add the publication name, cover, and month or year it was published.
• Special skills: Include any other special skills you may possess like yoga, basketball, pilates, and writing.
• Education/training: Do you have any degrees, acting classes or any other qualifications?
• Contact info: Include all the relevant contact details phone number, email address, social media, physical address, or website.

Invest in a professional portfolio

Just like any career, modeling requires you to put together all the necessary tools and have them on hand, including a professionally done portfolio to submit to different agencies. A portfolio, in modeling, is your main resume. It is what you will use when applying for work or approaching agencies. Find a great and reputable photographer to help you build a portfolio as a fitness model. Creating amazing images will go a long way to kick-start your career in a full-fledged way.

Your portfolio should include head and body shots. These photos should not be photoshopped or overdone. Since you are concentrating on fitness modeling, make sure to add a fitness-related snapshot in a bikini or a fitness attire. Remember, in this niche, it is all about fitness and not sexy. If you have any prior experience working for a company or agency, also include Tearsheets.

Differentiate yourself

Merely having a pretty face and great body will not cut it in the fitness industry today. Magazine editors and company executives receive tons of emails daily from other beautiful models. To catch their attention, consider offering some free content alongside your portfolio. Most companies and magazines will be highly likely to respond to you since you will also be providing a free article to work with as well. Make sure it is well written, intelligent, relevant and most importantly original.

Website Link

Are you associated with any existing blog or website that is in relation to fitness? If yes, make sure to include the link in your resume. This will help them get a clearer picture of what you can do.

Establish Social Media accounts

Finally, include links to personal social media accounts. Today, social media plays a significant role in your application. Make sure it contains content that they would love to see.

Break into The Industry

Once you are happy and satisfied with where you are physically, and you are armed with your portfolio, the next step is to break into the industry. The fitness modeling industry has many opportunities and many open doors. Different models get into the industry differently. Take your time to research and educate yourself on how to break into the industry. The goal is to find a place where you will be represented how you want to be embodied. When breaking into the fitness modeling industry, you can either get noticed or make yourself noticed.

How to get noticed

One of the best ways to get noticed by top fitness magazines, photographers, companies, and agencies is through entering a fitness modeling competition. If this is not up your alley, there are other alleys where you can get noticed including;

• Expos
• Fitness Competitions
• Mr. Olympia
• Arnold Classic

How to make yourself get noticed

Modelling agencies are a great place to get yourself noticed and find professional modelling work. When searching for a modelling agency, choose one that works with fitness models. Make sure you are working with a reputable company by checking to see if their online reviews and their record with the BBB (Better Business Bureau). Other ways you can get yourself noticed include;

• Social media networking
• Email submissions
• Internet model search contest
• Work with photographers in the fitness industry

Network

Networking is an important feature of any career or business, be it creatively or otherwise. It is crucial that you get to know those you will be working within the industry. Whether it is for guidance, advice or advertising yourself, it is essential that you know as many people in the industry, including photographers, makeup artists, hair stylists, casting agents, or models.

Be Persistent!

The road to becoming a fitness model is not for the faint-hearted. Regardless of the number of times you get rejected, you should raise yourself up and try again. There are people who hit it instantly, others take months, even years and others who never get there. You will only know where you belong if you try. Be persistent, work on improving your art and keep pushing.

Hopefully, this guide will provide you with all the guidance and direct you towards the right path. Try out the different techniques outlined above and see what works best for you and what aligns with your goals. Above all, be patient and never give up.

Or You Could Just Contact Us…

Now here’s the crunch…doesn’t all of that sound like hard work? We think it does and that’s where we come in.

We actually work on behalf of modelling agencies as a talent scout looking for aspiring models and rather than spending all your time and effort on the above you could simply contact ourselves.

Using our contacts we can put you where it matters most in a very short amount of time. Simply get in touch and we’ll handle the rest. Sound good? Let’s get going then…

Modelling is a great career path with nearly limitless earning potential. If you are always getting complimented on your looks, and you have that awesome body, you might want to consider it as a career option. However, you should know that being a professional model is not easy, especially for someone who is completely new to the industry. There are many hoops and obstacles to jump over on the journey to being any type of model. However, it is even tougher for bikini models, because in addition to these, they are also under tremendous pressure to maintain a particular body type and look.

We’ve written this article for people searching for how to be a bikini fitness model but it is worth mentioning that our role as a company is that we a are talent scout working on behalf of modelling agencies and we have the power to put you in front of people who can give your career a real boost. Simply fill in this form and we’ll do the rest, in the meantime please read on.

This article represents a typical path to becoming a bikini fitness model without our help (remember we can help you !)

Here is How to be a Bikini Fitness Model

For the purposes of this article, we shall split the journey of how to be a bikini fitness model into four parts:

1. How to get started

2. How to get representation

3. How to tone your body

4. How to take care of your body

For each of these major parts, there are subtopics that further detail the main point. Let’s get started!

A. How To Begin?

If you are a complete newbie, here are a few tips that will help you get a foot into the scene:

1. Take modelling classes

2. Get your portfolio ready

3. Networking

5. Look out for scams

1. Take Modelling Classes

Modelling classes are a great way to help you build your confidence and get a feel of how the actual act of modelling is. Through modelling classes, you can also learn about how the industry operates, and the ins and outs of modelling beyond the photo-shoots and the runways. Plus, you never know who you can meet in some of these classes.

However, if you cannot afford it, modelling classes are not necessary for your modelling career. Many models have made it big without having a modelling background to begin with. Formal modelling education is not a prerequisite in the modelling industry.

2. Get your portfolio ready

You need to start building your portfolio the moment you decide that becoming a bikini fitness model is the life for you.
For your portfolio, remember to keep things simple. Dress natural, like you do on a daily basis and get someone with a good quality camera to take pictures of you. Many agencies like the authentic feeling of amateur photos of novice aspiring models. Keep things simple. Minimize your use of makeup in portfolio photos, because agents want to see what you look like naturally.

To show variety, take pictures in several different outfits. Have photos of yourself in bikinis, but also include photos of you in everyday clothes, like jeans and t-shirts. Also, include headshots and your stat sheet. Never go to an interview without your portfolio.

3. Networking

The modelling industry rides a lot on who knows who. You need to strengthen your connections. Visit agencies and meet decision makers. Even if you do not get the job, make sure they get to know you and become familiar with your face. It may come in handy somewhere down the road. Know photographers, retailers, fashion designers. Be outgoing and mingle in settings where you need to make an impression. Also, do not forget the power of social media. Get your name out there. However, that’s where Junction 8 Models come in – submit your application to ourselves and we can open these doors for you.

4. Look out for scams

The model industry is full of people who would want to take advantage of unsuspecting newbies. Companies may want to scam you to pay fees to model for them because they know you are desperate to get the exposure. Do not pay agents before they do any work. Do not fall for scams of people who claim you need to take advantage of an opportunity now before it is gone. Do your research, look at websites and make sure they are legitimate. Ask for referees. Protect yourself.

B. What To Do If You Want Representation

Sometimes, going about it solo is not enough. You need a dedicated representative to get you those gigs. We can handle the process for you and we invite you to submit your application through ourselves but generally speaking here is what you have to do if you were to do it alone:

1. You need connections

2. Do your research

3. Apply through agencies

4. Know the right type of photos to send out

5. Be nice to people

1. You need connections

The best agencies need to have heard of you before they can even touch you. This comes from recommendations. If you hear about small shoots or legitimate jobs, take them even if they do not pay much. Instead, reap value by getting to know as many people on there as you can. Somewhere down the line, they might get you in contact with the agency of your dreams.

2. Do your research

What do these agencies need? Do you meet their requirements? Check out websites like models.com to look at more established agencies and see how they work. Find contact details of as many legitimate agencies as you can and apply to them. There are agencies that cater solely for bikini and swimsuit models, and sometimes they are easier to get into than more established fashion model agencies. Consider checking these out and applying.

3. Apply to Agencies

Before reading this step – please remember that WE CAN HELP YOU! Simply submit your application through ourselves otherwise is you plan to go it alone here is a guide for applying to an agency directly. If they are accepting applications, apply. Send as many emails as you can, every day without fail, until you secure representation. Work on your application and make sure it is clear and concise. A few things to include:

– Your stats: basic information like eye colour, hair colour, height, weight, body measurements, dress size, shoe size, and your age. Do not include unnecessary information.
– Contact information: phone number and email are essential
– Do not include a list of referees. Let the agency talk to you directly if they are interested.

4. Know the right type of photos to send out

Do not include pictures that have not been specifically taken for the purpose of applying to agencies. Some agencies have a specific set of requirements of the type of photos they want you to send in. Read up on these requirements and meet them. Do not send group photos. If you are asked to send a video, a simple 60-second video of yourself will do. If you have professional photos from a magazine you have worked with before, send these in too.

5. Be nice to people

Your personality goes a long way in this industry. You never know who can help you or ruin you in future. Be nice to everyone, and be genuine. Have a pleasant personality, and be likeable. Your social media pages should also express your personality. Show your potential employers that you are easy to work with.

C. Toning Your Body

As a bikini fitness model, there are essential parts of your body that literally sell you. Here are the parts you need to focus on:

1. You need a flat tummy

2. You need a toned butt

3. You need slim thighs

1. You need a flat tummy

You need a flat tummy if you are going to be showing it off all day. There is only so much photoshop can do, so it right and do your research on the types of exercises you need to do to get a flat tummy. Get that flat tummy and maintain it.

2. You need a toned bum

Your bum needs to be toned and tightened. Again, read up on all the exercises you can do to lift it and to tighten your muscles so that they can better fit into those bikini bottoms.

3. You need slim thighs

Bikini fitness models need to have slim, toned thighs. Do daily thigh and leg toning exercises and make sure you are always camera ready.

D. Taking Care Of Your Body

As a bikini fitness model, your body is your temple. It literally and figuratively feeds you. You need to take care of it and make sure it is always in money-making condition. Here is how:

1. Take a healthy approach to losing weight

2. Hydrate

3. You need to make sure your lifestyle is healthy

1. Take a healthy approach to losing weight

Calculate the number of calories you need to take in to achieve the right body type for you, and focus on that. Exercise regularly, and do not starve yourself to lose weight. Eat healthy foods from all food groups.
Consider eating more meals but in smaller portions. Studies have shown that this is a great way to stay full throughout the day while reducing overall food intake. Consider having at least five small meals every day. Make sure they are healthy meals.

Diet plans are very effective, but they should never be used for an extended period of time. This is because since some of them can be very intensive, they can adversely affect some body systems, affecting your overall health. They work great for detox purposes, though, where you eat them for two or so weeks and then go back to your normal diet.

2. Hydrate

Drink lots of water! It’s good for you! Water intake has too many benefits to count. Just drink lots of water throughout the day and you will see the benefits it has in no time at all.

3. You need to make sure your lifestyle is healthy

Generally, to be a bikini fitness model, you need to overhaul your entire lifestyle if you haven’t done so already and replace everything with healthier habits that build your body and mind. Do not aim for an unhealthily low body weight. It is not worth the health risks. Exercise regularly, eat well, interact with people. Remember, in this business, you need a thick skin. Your agent might call you “too fat” and ask you to shed some weight. Do not go on a fast because of a few criticisms. Have a positive body image of yourself, and promote this positive body image to others through your modelling.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a bikini fitness model is not easy. It takes a lot of work, commitment, patience and resilience. However, once you get there, it is a very rewarding profession.

In summary, here is how to be a bikini fitness model:

1. Get started

2. Get representation

3. Tone your body

4. Take care of your body