If you’ve got the looks, are confident in front of a camera, and are eager to avoid the dreaded nine-to-five, a career in modelling could be your calling.
As a model in the UK, you can earn a decent living, with an average income of £44,685 a year. This is largely dependent on your location (UK models usually earn more in London), experience, and gender (female models earn more than males).
You don’t need any qualifications to become a model in the UK, just an appealing aesthetic and a hard-working attitude. But with an industry so shrouded in mystery, the biggest question for many aspiring models is: How can I get into modelling?
Read on for our step-by-step guide on how to start modelling, plus a breakdown of the types of models to help you find the best fit.
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Before you strut another step, pause to consider the different types of modelling available in the UK.
Fashion and editorial modelling
This is high-fashion work, including runway shows and high-end magazines like Vogue. Women need to be tall (over 5'10"), slim, and have striking facial features. Men need to be over 6', toned, and slim.
Commercial modelling
This means working for advertisements, catalogues, and product campaigns. Physical requirements are a bit less restrictive than they are for fashion models, although successful female models tend to be slim and tall (at least 5'8"), have a beautiful smile, and have great hair. Usually, male commercial models need a tall, muscular physique and a dazzling smile.
Plus-size modelling
Plus-size models do not fit the traditional size requirements of fashion modelling. In the UK, this can mean being anything from a size 10(!) up, but with a shift towards body positivity in the modelling world, larger body sizes are becoming increasingly visible.
Parts modelling
Jobs in this niche focus on specific body parts, like hands, feet, or hair. Physical requirements are less strict, but having healthy skin and even features is always a bonus.
Across the board, demand tends to be for younger models (between 16 and 25 years old), although there is also a strong market across most types of modelling for mature models (over 35) and child models (under 16) in the UK.
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1. Build a portfolio
Once you’ve decided which type of modelling to pursue, you’ll need a portfolio that reflects the work you want. For starters, you’ll need help from someone else (selfies are great for social media, but a no-no for your book).
You don’t necessarily need to pay for a professional photo shoot, but you’ll need high-quality photos of yourself in natural lighting. Wear clothing that shows off your physique (so nothing too baggy), and take a range of pictures, including full-length, three-quarter-length, and a headshot.
Agencies prefer to see photos of models without any makeup. Most reputable agencies will ask you not to send photos of you in your underwear, either, as a safeguarding measure. If you’re going straight to open castings, you might need more of a range of looks.
2. Approach the right agencies
Research modelling agencies that match your desired niche and your specific look. Throw your net wide and look beyond London (the country’s most competitive market). There are great agencies all across the UK, including Manchester and Birmingham.
A modelling agency can be a huge help in launching your career, introducing you to top clients and handling the administrative side of the job, from pay to contracts. However, you can also go it alone, and you may find that works better for you. Keep an eye out for open castings and use social media to your advantage.
3. Register as self-employed
Whether you choose to sign with an agency or branch out on your own, you’ll need to register on the UK government website as a sole trader.
Since modelling agencies are a type of employment agency, models are considered self-employed independent businesses.
If you don’t register, you will likely be fined for avoiding taxes. Just make sure you register within six months of becoming a model, and keep hold of all your relevant receipts. A parent or guardian is responsible for models under 16 years old.
4. Protect yourself from scams
There are plenty of honest modelling agencies out there, but be aware of scam artists who take advantage of people trying to get into modelling. Only apply to BFMA-approved agents, and always do background research. The same goes for photographers and model scouts.
Be wary of agencies that ask you for a fee when you sign up or at a later stage. Reputable modelling agencies will never ask you for money up-front. Instead, like other talent agents, they take a percentage of anything you earn. If you don’t earn money, then neither should they.
If you do join an agency, they will likely arrange a test photography shoot to improve your portfolio. This will likely cost around £200. Always ask how much they charge beforehand and check the photographer’s background. You can always refuse if you don’t feel comfortable.
5. Impress at castings
Once you’ve got your portfolio ready and have secured agency representation (if you’re taking that approach), you’re ready to go to castings.
Make sure you are always on time. Punctuality is a marker of professionalism and shows your potential clients that you take them and your work seriously.
Wear simple, form-fitting clothes and minimal makeup to showcase your natural look. Sometimes you will be asked to wear something particular, or you may be asked to put on items at the casting.
Remember to bring your documents, especially your portfolio and some copies of your comp card (a modelling business card with some photos and your measurements). Female models should take heels with them, as well as nude underwear.
6. Consider joining Equity
Equity is the UK trade union for performers and actors, but it also represents models. The benefits of joining include advice, support, and representation throughout your career, as well as the chance to belong to a network of models. If you have concerns about your pay or how you are being treated on shoots, Equity should be able to help.
7. Keep networking
To be successful as a model, you’ll need to make strong industry connections. As a freelancer, you’ll often be responsible for finding work, and having a good reputation and friends in the right circles can lead to repeat bookings, exclusive casting opportunities, and more enjoyable shoot experiences.
Luckily, the UK modelling industry adores socialising, so there will be plenty of events and opportunities to meet people. Keep tabs on whoever you want to work with, and don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for advice.