Tattoo modelling is an industry niche that can be both rewarding and creative. Models like Catherine McNeil, Stephen James, and Mercedes Edison all rose to fame thanks to their tattoos.
Getting inked is a big decision – especially if your appearance is crucial to your career – and should be a lifestyle choice rather than a professional one. However, having eye-catching tattoos can be a real plus in the fashion industry, where diversity and inclusivity are increasingly championed.
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This section of the industry hires “alternative” models who have eye-catching body art. Since many contemporary brands want to cultivate an edgy, urban, creative look, they’ll pay good money to align themselves with your image. Tattoo models will often pose in lingerie or swimwear so that their body art is on full display.
That said, having tattoos won’t necessarily hold you back from more traditional gigs in high-fashion campaigns, videos, exhibitions, and commercial shoots. Mainstream models like Cara Delevingne, Kate Moss, and Jourdan Dunn all have ink. But if you’re specifically seeking work in tattoo modelling, your body art is the focus.
Here are some things to consider before going under the needle.
Think before you ink. Any political, obscene, or potentially offensive tattoos could prevent you from getting hired. Similarly, consider placement: Your face, arms, upper back, legs, and chest are highly visible areas, so understand what you’re signing up for.
Consider copyrights. Generally speaking, tattoos – even if they’re brand logos – don’t infringe on copyright laws, as they’re considered the work of the artist who drew them on your body. However, if you have a giant Nike swoosh on your arm, Adidas likely wouldn’t be interested in hiring you.
Make sure your tattoos are meaningful. Merely having an assortment of designs might not be enough to get you hired. Great tattoo models use their bodies to tell a story, so their tattoos often share a common theme; they’ll also often use the same artist for each piece. Brands may be looking for a particular aesthetic, so decide how you’d describe yours in a job interview or on social media.
Do your research. Which brands are hiring models with designs similar in style and placement to your own? Study the tattoo models you like on social media, and find out who they’ve done work for. If a brand previously booked a model with botanical tattoos, calligraphy, figures, anime, or nautical symbols, then they’ll likely continue to be interested in models with designs along the same theme.
1. Get to know the community.
People who are passionate about body art tend to have a similarly creative mindset. With that in mind, start networking with particular tattoo artists and parlours, and check out ink-centric publications such as iNKPPL and Tattoo Life. Fostering these connections could lead to work opportunities, both in editorial and adverts.
2. Create a portfolio.
Think of this as a visual CV that showcases your tattoo style and modelling skills to potential employers. Include headshots, full-body shots, and your contact details. Though your tattoos should be visible, don’t include underwear shots in your portfolio. Also, make sure you have digital and hard copies of your photographs on hand.
Arty images are good to include, but keep your outfits simple and your makeup minimal; your tattoos should do the talking. Check what agencies and/or employers want out of your photos, and tailor your submissions accordingly. Don’t be afraid to adapt your portfolio for different recipients.
3. Research representation.
Tattoo models can be represented by both mainstream and niche agencies. To find the right fit, check which agencies have signed models you admire, and research what the requirements are to get signed.
4. Be social.
Get into the habit of posting regularly on social media. Feature portfolio shots, of course, but also insights into your life; authenticity is key. Using hashtags can help increase your following. Take a look at which hashtags successful tattoo models are using, and follow their lead. Consider tagging the brands, tattoo parlours, artists, and/or agents you want to work with in your posts. Hashtags like #tattoo, #tattoomodel and #inkedmodel are good starting points.
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Here are a few inked models who have made their mark on the industry.
Jessica Wilde: Inked Magazine cover star and tattoo artist
Grace Neutral: British model and TV presenter
Mercedes Edison: Scouse tattoo modelling star
Stephen James: Pioneering British tattoo model
Eve Salvail: Jean Paul Gaultier muse who’s known for having a dragon tattooed on her shaved head.
Megan Massacre: US tattoo artist and model who’s famous for inking pop star Zayn Malik