How To Model With No Experience
Do you have dreams of becoming a model but have no idea how to get your foot in the door? Even the greatest supermodels all began modelling with no experience. Whether they were scouted or consistently rejected by agencies until they made their big break, every model worked from the ground up. Many jobs require some element of experience, yet how does an aspiring model gain experience if no one is willing to give them a chance? When there is a will, there’s a way — fight for your position in the spotlight.
By Natalie Dawson
1. Modelling Competitions
When it comes down to it, winning a competition is the luck of the draw. There is no guarantee that you will be picked out of thousands of others, but these opportunities are abundant. Modelling agencies, fashion brands and photography studios are constantly looking for fresh faces to lift up into the limelight.
Australia’s very own, Kate Wasley, found her way to fame by submitting her photographs to a modelling competition. The criteria consisted of “if you love your curves, apply” and Kate submitted an application. She got a phone call from Vivien’s in Perth and eventually went on to become the winner and face of Autograph Fashion in 2016.
Modelling competitions aren’t a foolproof method, but the possibility is there! Taking the chance and applying is better than sitting and wondering “what if?”
2. Starting Your Portfolio
It’s no surprise that most aspiring models might need some imagery to get their foot in the door. Of course, some agencies will happily accept DIGIs taken from your phone that best highlight your natural look. [DIGIs are clean, unedited photographs of yourself.]
Although, if you want to truly impress — studio photographs can capture your best looks in the more attention-grabbing manner. Professional photographers know how to photograph your best angles, they also know exactly what agencies are looking for. Many modelling agencies will ask for more images, so it’s good to have a variety to choose from.
Photographs with natural makeup, styling and lighting, but also some with versatility to show your ability as a model.
Read: Agency Applications
3. Use Your Platform
Whether you’ve got 20 followers or 200, social media is the perfect place to get your images out there and your talents noticed. There are respectful ways to gain the attention of agencies through platforms such as Instagram. Using appropriate hashtags and occasionally tagging companies in your posts can give you a step up on the competition.
IMG Models introduced the hashtag #WLYG, encouraging aspiring models to get their name out there. The tag stands for “We Love Your Genes” and IMG uses it to scout future models.
Tagging modelling agencies is a delicate road to travel down and requires thoughtfulness and tact. Spamming an agency, or a studio, with images and expecting them to pick you above all others, won’t work. Choose your best photos (or selfies) and use your tags wisely. Certainly don’t go tagging agencies in pictures of your friends or breakfast snaps!
4. Modelling Workshops & Classes
Modelling workshops and classes technically aren’t something you can put in your portfolio but they are exceptionally helpful! Learning from the best can prevent feeling like a deer in headlights in front of the camera.
It’s a lot harder than it looks modelling from the top of your head to the tip of your toes.
Modelling workshops or modelling classes provide wannabe models with all the answers to any questions they may have.
“Where are the best places to apply for? What’s the difference between fashion and commercial modelling? What to wear to a casting?”
This information is crucial and while the answers can be sourced online the real-life knowledge and experience is priceless.
5. Collaborations
Working for free may not seem idealistic, but it’s the best way to form connections and get some practice in. There are plenty of creative teams looking for a passionate model to photograph, style and beautify.
TFP (Time For Print) work is a great to start of modelling with no experience.
Collaborative groups are predominantly found on Facebook and while they are a great way to get connected it’s important to be cautious. Don’t let anyone take advantage of you, your time or your talent. Modelling with no experience doesn’t place your personal value any higher or lower than professional models.
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