Modeling Tips: Business, Agency, and Self-Care Guide

Essential Modeling Insights for Success

Are you considering stepping into the exciting world of modeling? Here are some things I wish I knew when I was starting out.

1. Treating Modeling as a Business.

Aspiring Models, You Are Business Owners.

Models are independent contractors and not employed by their agencies. The faster you start seeing yourself as a business owner and yourself as a brand, the more successful you will be.

While some models get discovered and propelled to instant fame, that is not the story for most of us. Do your homework, learn about the ins and outs of the industry, build a network of other models, stay informed and stay involved so that you can stay in control of your career.

Do not just expect that you will sign to an agency and they will do all the work for you. You must do your homework, you must interview agencies to see which is the best fit for you and your goals, and you must have a vision for yourself and put the work in to get there.

Too often I hear of models complaining that they aren’t getting any work, but they rarely keep in contact with their agents, they let their modelling portfolio get out of date, they don’t take updated digitals, will often be unavailable for castings, or will be going and changing their appearance on a whim without updating or consulting the agency.

If you want to be getting work, you need to show your agents that you are professional and reliable and prioritizing your modelling career.

2. Agency Matters.

The Impact of Choosing the Right Agency.

Sometimes we put in tons of effort and try really hard to do everything we can and we still aren’t getting work. Don’t fret, this doesn’t necessarily mean you don’t have what it takes, your agency or the market might not be the right fit. Often different agencies are known for different things: some are known for high fashion modeling, some for commercial modeling, some are known to have a more diverse roster of models etc. You might want to set up a meeting with your agents to discuss your partnership. Either they will have some suggestions for what you can do differently, or maybe it’s time to part ways.

3. Lessons from Personal Mistakes.

My Biggest Modeling Mistake.

My biggest mistake when I started modelling was wasting my best years on an agency that did nothing for me. My issue was that I believed that I wasn’t working enough because of a personal failing, so I never considered leaving or switching agencies. I felt like I was lucky to even be signed by any agency, and I stayed there for years just metaphorically collecting dust on their board.

It wasn’t until I quit modelling for unrelated reasons and came back with a different agency and started working very well, that I realized the problem wasn’t me. In fact, I later moved to a different city and started working even more and my whole perspective shifted. Sometimes you just need to find the right agency and the right market at the right timing, and sometimes these things take years and stubborn belief in yourself to get there.

The best thing you can do for yourself is take time when you are meeting with agencies to interview them as well. If they act like they are completely in control and you are lucky to have their attention at all without any room for you to ask questions, it’s a red flag in my opinion. You should be able to ask them about their brand and values, what kind of clients they have and what their vision for you is. Personally, I am always looking for agencies that will respect me as an equal and collaborate with me as a team to achieve the best outcomes for everyone. It’s kind of crazy that this is not the standard in this industry because it seems so common sense when I type it out, but there are a lot of agencies that are just out here to exploit- yes, even the reputable ones. Just because they have big models and big clients does not mean they are good team players.

And don’t skip out on carefully reviewing that contract! These are not things to be taken lightly. Understanding model contracts takes some time and practise so try to have a professional review it if you can, or a the very least look up some legal tips for models before signing any model agreement.

3. Importance of Self-Care

Nurturing Mind and Body

Modeling is demanding, both physically and mentally. It is absolutely essential that you prioritize self-care. A balanced diet, regular exercise and mindfulness practices are all incredibly helpful tools for longevity in this industry.

Model measurements aside, exercising helps you with building bodily awareness and flexibility which are extremely helpful for posing as well as stamina which you will often need on these long work days and fast paced environments. You need a strong sense of self to not lose yourself in this industry. It’s not easy to constantly be surrounded by all of these other models and not get caught up in comparing yourself to them. The best way you can ensure to book jobs is to show up with confidence, a strong sense of self and a positive attitude, all things which are not easy to maintain in this line of work where you face constant rejection and criticism.

Don’t get caught up in model fitness tips and intense dieting and workout routines and neglect your mental health. I booked way more jobs at my biggest measurements when I was at my happiest, than I ever did when I drove myself mad trying to maintain a 34 inch hip.

5. This life is not for everyone

Realities of Freelancing

You might technically be your own boss with a certain amount of freedom, but any freelancer will tell you that this isn’t exactly how it goes in practise. As freelancers we don’t have job security, you never really know when or where your next pay cheque will come from so you usually like to be available as much as possible and say yes to everything.

As a model especially, you often don’t even get your schedule until last minute. You will be constantly having to cancel or reschedule plans last minute and it’s important to have people in your life who understand that. I think this is why models usually have friends who are also models, because they understand and will never take it personally.

And while it is nice to have a job that enables you to travel, it’s not all fun and games and glamour either. You will either be paying out of pocket for your flights and accommodations, or the agency will advance it for you and you will have to pay them back as you work- both of these things are risky scenarios where you are investing time and money into a trip where you might not work at all. I won’t go too much into it here but The Guardian did an excellent job covering the issue of indentured servitude in the fashion modelling industry and here is a good article on Fashionista about Model Housing.

6. You can make great money

Empowering Yourself in the Industry

I wanted to end on a positive note, in case that last point is in danger of scaring you off. Every new business venture comes with it’s risks, and I just think it’s important to be realistic and to empower yourself with knowledge of what those are. Knowing all of these things about modelling, and having seen the dark side of it, I would still do it all over again.

I am now 26 years old with more financial freedom and stability than most people my age, and I got to travel the world and have so many incredible experiences. It wasn’t without it’s hardships and challenges, but this industry really did transform my life. I am not one of those models that comes from a rich or famous family. I had to do everything on my own and it took me a really long time to get there but I would say it was definitely worth it and I had a lot of fun on the journey.

Conclusion

As I reflect on my journey in the modeling industry, I hope these insights have served as a guiding light for those stepping into this thrilling world. Modeling, beyond its glamorous facade, demands resilience, strategic choices, and a commitment to self-care.

Remember, you are not just a model; you are a business owner and a brand. Choosing the right agency is paramount, and my personal mistake taught me the importance of making thoughtful decisions about partnerships. The industry is vast, and finding the right fit might take time, but belief in yourself can move mountains.

Self-care, both physically and mentally, is non-negotiable. It forms the foundation for longevity in this industry. Embrace your uniqueness, show up with confidence, and maintain a positive attitude despite facing rejection and criticism.

Freelancing, while offering freedom, comes with uncertainties. Be prepared for last-minute schedules and cancellations. Surround yourself with understanding friends, preferably those who share your journey.

Despite the challenges, the modeling industry has the potential to transform lives. As you embark on this adventure, empower yourself with knowledge. I, too, started as an independent freelancer and, at 26, now enjoy financial stability and the joy of having traversed the globe.

So, to every aspiring model, embrace the highs and lows, prioritize your well-being, and stay informed. Your journey is unique, and with determination, it can be a fulfilling and transformative experience.

Check out my blog post on Model Life during Milan Fashion Week for a little behind the scenes look into the experience of high fashion and international modelling.

Let me know if you have any questions, or interesting stories in the comments below!