Aspiring models are constantly asking – How do I get signed with a models agency? A lot of times people think it’s all about luck and that is FAR from the truth. Just because some models are signed by a model agency because a scout spotted them on a street doesn’t mean that that’s where the work ends. There is much more to being signed than just having a pretty face – Agencies want to trust the models they’re sending to castings and they can’t do that if their clients aren’t reliable.
Build Your Fanbase
It may sound redundant, but social media does play a role in the model’s business world. Having a platform that culminates your brand, or rather who YOU are as a model, is a powerful way to grab people’s attention and introduce yourself. Models that can build a natural audience are demonstrating how they can build a following of fans.
This is a great way to market to brands that want to grow their customer base. Aside from the business aspect of Instagram and social media, being able to keep in touch with audiences and get a front-row view of someone’s personality shows a separate side of models. Agencies can get a better picture of who you are when you’re not putting on an extra professional face.
Look Natural
Models are essentially a canvas for another brand to paint. If you only have photos that encompass a lot of hair and makeup, then brands cannot envision you the way they’d want to have you photographed. “Take the most effortless beauty pictures, not a lot of makeup or hair, just be yourself,” advises Ivan Bart, President of IMG Models. “We like to see women as natural beauties wearing just a simple t-shirt and pair of jeans–we can leave the industry to imagine all the hair and makeup and clothing options.”
Be Proactive
With any business, you don’t just sit at home and wait for someone to come find you to work. You have to actively find work and that especially goes for models! Know your look – Everyone has a brand that they’re promoting and in this business your product is.. Well.. YOU! Do your research – Find model agencies that resonate with your look or brand. Are you edgy? The natural beauty? The friendly approachable face with high cheekbones?
Every agency has its niche, so know who you are and what you’re marketing. Have your portfolio ready with your book of measurements. Your photos should be professional looking, in natural lighting, and showcase what you want to “sell”. Be sure to have both headshots and full-body photos that look like you.
It’s Not Just About Looks
Looks can only get you so far in life, and models are no exception. Being a hard worker, kind, passionate, and driven is necessary for clients to want to continue booking you.
If you’re going to be on a set with someone for 12 hours, do you want to be stuck with someone who has zero manners and no consideration for anyone else? Absolutely not! You want someone who will make those 12 hours fly by and will keep things moving and grooving with a smile on their face.
Quick Tips
- Don’t let all the no’s get you down – You will receive more no’s than yes’s – This is true for even the most infamous of supermodels, so if this is what you want, thick skin and a positive outlook will do you good!
- Be persistent and consistent – Keep working hard and continue
- Always be a student – Continue to expand your talents and skills. Knowledge is power!
- Stay healthy – Both physically and mentally… Make this your priority.
- BE ON TIME!!! This is a job and respecting everyone’s time is a MUST!
- Be someone you’d like to hire – Who would you want representing you? Be that person!