UKModels Reviews Different Routes into Fashion Modelling
UK Models is the UK’s leading model support service. The organisation helps people who are interested in embarking on a modelling career to access information, resources and advice. Having supported aspiring models for almost two decades, UKModels reviews thousands of models and helps them to take their all-important first steps, creating quality portfolios and building professional networks, as well as helping them to approach modelling agencies and apply for jobs. This article will explore the various different routes available for individuals keen to embark on a modelling career.
There are 10 basic modelling categories, each with their own requirements. Editorial models appear in fashion magazines wearing the latest designs from a clothing brand or fashion designer. Runway models walk the catwalk during fashion shows, while parts models only model a specific part of the body in product photography. Plus-size modelling features models who are larger than the editorial standard, while fitness models must maintain peak physical fitness, exercising regularly to achieve a toned and muscular physique. There are also lingerie models, glamour models, swimsuit models, promotional models and catalogue models, with the latter category incorporating individuals who look more like everyday people, marketing retail clothing and everyday products.
Synonymous with glamour, the world of fashion modelling can be accessed by various routes, chief among them by enlisting the services of a modelling agency. Modelling agencies are companies that help models to find work. They may specialise in a particular niche, such as female, male or plus-size models, or act for a wide range of different demographics.
When a model is ‘signed’ with an agency, the agency agrees to represent that model, matching them with assignments. To secure the support of an agent, models need to stand out from the crowd, building a professional portfolio and eating well and getting enough sleep to maintain their health. It is also crucial for aspiring models to have the right mindset, demonstrating a proactive approach, resilience and a steadfast commitment to achieving their goals.
Modelling agencies support clients in a range of different ways, including marketing and promoting them and completing all necessary paperwork. They also liaise with clients, dealing with all monetary negotiations. One key advantage of being signed by a modelling agency lies in their extensive industry connections and expertise in gaining modelling work for their clients. However, these benefits do come at a cost, with model agencies taking a cut of the model’s commission, which typically equates to between 20% and 30% of the model’s earnings.
Not all models are signed with an agency, with many opting to work freelance instead, networking and promoting themselves to access work opportunities. To market their personal brand effectively, models need a portfolio of professionally shot images in various poses and outfits. Investing in building a website incorporating their images and CV enhances the model’s professional reputation, as well as providing a way for clients to contact them. In addition, Z-cards serve as a model’s business card. Usually A5 in size, Z-cards may feature a single image of the model or a small selection, also including the model’s name, statistics and contact information.
The great thing about freelancing is that models take home 100% of their earnings as well as exercising complete control over who they work for, where they work and what types of modelling they wish to engage in. Nevertheless, freelancers at the start of their career will have no one to recommend them. In order to be successful, they will therefore need to invest a significant amount of time in approaching brands, making their own introductions, sharing their own portfolios and conducting their own negotiations. In addition to organising their own diary, freelance models are also responsible for managing their own finances and legal documentation.