How To Become a Professional Model With No Experience

I get this question a ton, especially from parents who are interested in getting their child into modeling.  The great news is ANYBODY can be a model.  I’m sure most of you are saying, “No way,” but hear me out.  When most of us think of a model, we think of a 5’11” 98lb woman or a 6’4” 145lb man walking the runway with skinny long legs, a blank expression and 4% body fat.  That is a tiny portion of the modeling/print industry and really is only in demand in A markets (aka LA or New York).  What’s really big, especially in smaller markets, is what’s called lifestyle print or lifestyle modeling.  Lifestyle modeling is what you see day in day out: It’s basically photographs of models doing activities you see in every day life.  So how do you get started?

Do I Need To Be Skinny To Be a Lifestyle Model?

NOPE!  The best part about lifestyle modeling is you don’t have to be built like a willow tree and 16 years old.  Also this type of modeling can be done at any point and at any age in your life.  Casting agencies are looking for real, every day type people for this kind of work.  So if you’re an every day type of person, you can be a lifestyle model.

Do You Need Modeling Experience?

Nope!  It helps for sure if you already have a portfolio, but they don’t expect you to have one as you haven’t been professionally represented.

How Do You Get An Agent?

Yay for internet!  Google modeling/talent agencies in your area.  If you live in a smaller state, look for them in the big cities of your state.  Please be careful to not get scammed: AGENTS DON’T MAKE MONEY UNTIL YOU DO.  Do not buy into pay-to-play agencies.  It’s unethical and they aren’t a legit agency [Check out my video here for my info on this scam and how to avoid it: https://youtu.be/CbN1k4n8m_4].

Individual agencies will have their own way they wish for you to submit.  Make sure you read each agencies website for information on how to correctly submit.  If you don’t follow their instructions, especially in a busier market, they’ll often throw your submission out so don’t get yourself denied before they even look because you didn’t do your homework.

Didn’t Hear Back From An Agent?

How many agencies did you submit to?  Just 1 or 2 out of 10?  Or did you submit to all of them?  If you cast a wide net, wait another 6 months and apply again.  It doesn’t mean they don’t want you it just means they don’t need your look currently but 6 months from now could be a big story.

While you’re waiting to hear back from agents, take some classes!  They have modeling coaches in a lot of larger cities (just make sure they’re legit and not a fake agency).  Also spend some time in front of a camera.  If you’re a little shy in front of a camera or even if you’re not, spending time in front a a camera can help you identify weaknesses or things you don’t like about your work and how to correct them.  If you have any friends who are photographers, even better!  Work with them and get some feedback.