How Do You Get Scouted? A Guide for Aspiring Models

In the digital age, social media is a major scouting ground for modelling agencies. Many top models, including the Dutch model Alyssa Traoré, were found online. After years of searching for an agent, Traoré decided to follow a less traditional route by posting headshots on Instagram – and it worked! She’s since modelled for brands including Prada, Valentino, and Tommy Hilfiger. 

Tips for getting discovered as a model on social media:

• Focus your attention. Funny quips on X or Bluesky won’t flaunt your modelling potential. Focus your attention on visual mediums, such as TikTok and Instagram, and make sure your accounts are public.
• Use the right hashtags. Tag your posts with #scoutme, #newface, #aspiringmodel, #modellife, and #modelsearch to increase visibility. The agency IMG Models started its We Love Your Genes hashtag (#WLYG) specifically to find the next big modelling name.
• Follow and engage with agencies directly. Many modelling agencies scout talent by browsing their own tagged posts. Take good pictures and tag companies you admire. You can also like, repost, and comment, but make sure you sound authentic. Remember to check your direct messages and message requests, because it’s often how agencies reach out.
• Post high-quality photos. Natural light, minimal makeup, and clear headshots help scouts see your potential. Post regularly to give yourself the best chance of being spotted.
• Stay professional. Keep your profile clean and focused on modelling content.
• Be cautious. “Anyone who asks for money up front will not be a professional scout,” Anthony Gordon, director of scouting at Premier Model Management, told Elle. Agencies typically take a cut only on jobs they’ve found for the models signed to their books.

Most modelling agencies hold open calls, at which aspiring models can meet scouts in person. It’s a great opportunity to get seen by the people who matter. Here’s how to prepare for an open call:

• Research agencies. The first step is to find out when the calls are happening. Check agencies’ websites and social media accounts for updates. 
• Wear simple, fitted clothing. Avoid heavy makeup and elaborate, patterned outfits, because agencies want to see your natural look. Eat well and drink lots of water to make sure you feel your best before the call. 
• Be prepared. Remember to bring basic headshots and full-body shots taken in natural light. Bring your modelling portfolio if you have one. (It’s a good idea to make one if you have previous modelling credits.)

It may seem overwhelming, but networking is a great way to get noticed. Fashion events, industry mixers, and modelling workshops can put you in the right place at the right time. Scouts and industry professionals will often be looking for fresh faces.

Here are some best practices for networking:

• Introduce yourself confidently. Have a short introduction prepared about yourself and your modelling goals.
• Research the industry. Do as much research about the event as possible. Who might be there? Read up on the organisers and guest list so you have things to talk about.
• Bring your portfolio. Even a simple collection of high-quality images of past work can showcase your potential and make you look serious about a modelling career.
• Follow up. If you connect with an industry professional, always follow up with a polite message afterward. It could remind them who you are and reinforce your commitment.

Getting scouted spontaneously can happen, but submitting to a reputable agency is often the fastest way to start your modelling career. “Submit your photos to an agency online,” Gordon said. Start by researching the agencies you may like to represent you. Most allow online submissions, but check how they prefer to receive them. 

Here’s how to submit to an agency:

• Check the website. Most agencies have a “Become a Model” or “Apply” section.
• Submit high-quality photos. Agencies typically ask for a mix of natural headshots, side profiles, and full-body shots.
• Avoid scam agencies. Always research the agency’s reputation before submitting.
• Follow up. If you haven’t heard back in a few weeks, you can send a polite reminder – unless the agency advises otherwise on its website.

Building a portfolio through unpaid collaborations can help you gain experience and develop a strong body of work. Here’s how to find test shoots:

• Network with photographers. Reach out to aspiring fashion photographers looking to build their portfolios.
• Search Instagram for casting calls. Search for hashtags such as #modelcallout to try to find opportunities. 

Some models are scouted in everyday locations. “I was scouting with one of my colleagues at an Arsenal game and saw this really interesting boy, so I ran through the crowd toward him,” Anna Shillinglaw, the founder of MiLK Management, told Time Out. But, although chance encounters can happen, making yourself visible in fashion-focused environments can increase your odds.

The best places to be scouted:

• Fashion Week and wider industry events: Even attending as a guest can put you in front of industry insiders.
• Popular creative hubs: Many scouts hang around trendy, artistic locations, such as festivals and big concerts. “I’m a regular at all the UK music festivals,” Joel Borough, a scout for Elite Model Management, told Metro. “That’s probably the best place to find lots of young people all in the same place.” 
• Reality TV shows: Another way to get on the radar of scouts is appearing on TV shows such as Love Island. Grace Jackson landed a six-figure modelling deal after appearing on the show, and the uber successful Molly-Mae Hague was helped along by becoming a brand ambassador for PrettyLittleThing – for £500,000.

Many models are discovered through national and international competitions searching for modelling talent. The influencer Ambar Lee won a competition with Missguided in 2016 and was also offered a contract with Anti-Agency. Follow a wide range of brands and competitions online to ensure that you hear about opportunities.

Stay consistent with your social media presence, keep attending open casting calls, network at industry events, and submit to agencies regularly. Remember to always be yourself. After all, what’s come before may not be what comes next. As Robyn Bright, a scout for Models 1 told the BBC: “I don't like to think that we’re looking for one thing.” Who knows? Your big break may be just around the corner.