Tips For New Models

Written by Gavin Kyle Green

I have worked with hundreds of models during my career, some new faces just starting out to famous international models. I love working with new face models because they already have their unique look, and edgy confidence (that I will help instill), and now they just need a portfolio to showcase themselves to the world!

Being a model is one of the most fun and exciting jobs but, don’t get me wrong, it is competitive and difficult to get started.

So, here are my top tips for new face models:

1. Safety First

Do your homework on the photographer beforehand. Look at more than just their Instagram posts, don’t be afraid to message a model that they worked with in the past to help ensure that you will be working with someone that creates a safe and fun photoshoot environment.

  • Do not go to photoshoots alone. Bring a family member or friend along.

  • Do not do anything that you are not 100% comfortable with. Remember that you are in control and can say no to anything that you are not comfortable with.

Photoshoots are so much fun but please remember that your safety is most important.

2. Be Professional

Be on time. Communicate effectively. Be prepared. On set everyone is working on a schedule and arriving half an hour late pushes the entire team off schedule. Of course, things happen but you should always do everything in your power to be early and on time.

3. Learn

Learn from others, online resources like YouTube and blogs. These days I would even recommend finding some models with educational Tik Tok content. Most importantly, make sure you are learning from each photoshoot experience that you have.

4. Be Confident

Experiment and get creative, especially once we've got something 'satisfactory'! Throw your head back, scream play virtual twister but let’s create something NEW! Loads won't work (maybe none will, but what's there to lose!) Remember we only really need one 'wow' image! Let's have some fun! This is following on from the last point. The chances are that you chose to work with the photographer because you like their body of work. Trust the photographer with poses (so long as they are appropriate and within your levels obviously). If they ask you to scream, throw your head back, then go for it. Nobody is there to laugh at you it is all about creating the final image and sometimes the photographer knows the way to get 'their style'.

5. Build a Portfolio

Before you attend a casting or try to get signed by a modeling agency you must build a portfolio. Your portfolio should include the following photos:

  • Headshot

  • Swimsuit Shot

  • Editorial Fashion Shot

  • Commercial Shot

  • Smiling Shot

  • Recent Digitals (All black form-fitting clothing)

Once your book is ready you should start going to modeling agency casting calls. Your book is a living breathing portfolio and should be updated periodically.

Pro tip: have a printed portfolio. It helps!

6. Don’t Edit

Refrain from editing final photos. It is industry standard to not edit a photographer’s work, without permission. If you dislike the photos that you receive after a photoshoot have a conversation with the photographer and see if adjustments can be made. Furthermore, it does not hurt to have a thorough conversation before the photoshoot with the photographer so you can express exactly what you are looking for in your final images.

7. Don’t take it to heart

This industry is filled with a lot of no’s but don’t get discouraged everyone in the industry has gone through this in some way shape or form. It’s okay, take all criticism with a grain of salt and apply the feedback that you think fits.

8. Have Fun

Last but not least, have fun! Photos always come out better when you are having a good time. Modeling is such an exciting and memorable experience so, enjoy every moment and remember to have lots of fun along the way.

Be confident and have fun, you got this!