How To Become A Freelance Model-EXACT Steps!

Have you ever stood in front of a mirror, striking killer poses in your bath towel, or sashayed down an imaginary catwalk, wondering how to become a freelance model?

No? Just me then O_O

You might be wondering how to break into this highly competitive industry.

Perhaps a lack of experience and fear of rejection is putting you off.

Well, wonder no more about how to freelance model because I’ve got you covered.

These are all the steps you need to know on how to start freelance modeling and kickstart your fabulous modeling career.

How To Become A Freelance Model

Develop a unique look and style
Practice and get some experience
Take some online courses
Compile a portfolio
Prepare your comp card and casting photos
Publish and update your profile
Network with industry professionals
Search for jobs and get bookings
BONUS tip: Stay professional, punctual, and committed

DISCLOSURE

Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.

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How To Become A Freelance Model – A Step-By-Step Guide

So how to become a freelance model?

If becoming a freelancer model sounds like the perfect job for you, here are the steps you can take to make that dream a reality.

1. Develop A Unique Look And Style

You don’t have to be the most beautiful man or woman on the planet to become a model.

If you look at the top models, they each have a unique look or style to offer. So find yours.

Do you have a unique feature that stands out from the rest?

Are you a trend setter, or perhaps you like to break the rules of fashion and reinvent your own style?

Work on highlighting your best feature(s) and find a style that complements it. Make yourself stand out from the crowd.

2. Practice And Get Experience

The first thing you need to do to start your freelance modeling career is to rack up the experience. Start small!

Set up a good camera in front of a plain background and practice posing and taking photos of yourself.

Learn by copying poses and figuring out how to position your body to best showcase your features.

Practicing and engaging in modeling activities sharpens your skills and increases valuable experience, which will go a long way to impressing and landing clients.

One of the easiest ways to gain experience is to volunteer your free lance modeling services. This could be to family, friends, or local events.

3. Take Online Courses

You may be thinking, I have no experience! Is there any training on how to become a freelance model?

Absolutely. Getting some training will set you apart and speed up your learning so you have a competitive edge early on.

If you have no experience and are keen to get proper training, here are a few online courses that will teach you how to become a freelance model from the comfort of your own home.

The prices of these courses are much cheaper than if you received full-blown certification from a modeling academy.

Modeling Beyond The Runway

How to Become A Professional Model

Modeling 101: Fundamentals of Modeling

Make Money Modeling

If you’re looking for professional certification, you can invest and enroll yourself in modeling academies or schools.

4. Compile A Portfolio

While your home photos may start you off, you need to build a substantial portfolio before you will be ready to take on paying jobs.

Take up small modeling gigs or hire a professional photographer to shoot photos of you.

You can also participate in a “time for photos” or ‘TFP’, where a group of creatives including yourself as a freelancing model, a photographer, a makeup artist, and a stylist all contribute to a shoot.

While none of you will get paid, you will be exchanging your time and effort to create photos for each other’s portfolios.

For beginners, this is a win-win!

Your portfolio should showcase your diverse range, any niche you want to explore, and cover a variety of shots and poses.

While a business social media account is sufficient, you should also look to compile your portfolio into a pdf or a website so you can share it easily.

Here is a step by step guide on how to create a freelance modeling website

5. Prepare A Comp Card And Casting Photos/Videos

A comp card is a summary of your details and portfolio. Think of it as a freelance model’s business card.

It will usually include your name, contact details, body measurements, and a selection of 4-5 of your best and most varied photos.

A good idea is to prepare customized comp cards based on the client you are submitting them to.

For example, a modest-wear client would not be particularly interested in your lingerie photos.

A casting photo or video is what scouts or clients will usually see first when they put out casting calls.

Set your camera on a tripod or even surface and stand against a plain, light-colored background and make sure you are well lit.

Take photos of several angles of your face and full body (wear neutral, non-distracting clothing and minimal/natural makeup). Include several poses and facial expressions.

For video, do the same but also shoot yourself walking and moving.

6. Publish And Update Your Profile

These details include measurements, contact, and any links you wish to include. Make sure you read the categories carefully to determine what kinds of shoots you are open to and what you are not comfortable with.

Include a short, thorough blurb about yourself and your modeling career. Don’t forget to add your personality and passions to it!

For example – ‘I love working hard, creating beautiful shoots for my clients, so I can spend time and money with my fur babies, Tara and Momo’.

7. Network With Photographers, Stylists, Make-Up Artists, Potential Clients

Get your name out into the industry!

Send formal emails to photographers, makeup artists, ad agencies, companies, and stylists you would love to work with. Always include your details, comp card, and portfolio for them to easily refer to.

While cold-calling may not get you many responses, don’t lose faith!

Keep your social media updated and keep hustling so you are visible to industry insiders. With luck, they may remember you and decide to book you for upcoming jobs.

Contacting professionals in the industry also expands your network – something that is essential in any freelance career.

Once you land jobs, tag the people you work with, the location, and other details (always check about confidentiality with your client first!) which would make it easier for you to find and be remembered.

8. Search For Jobs And Get Bookings

If you’ve done all of the above, it’s time for you to hit the pavement and look for jobs!

Search online through freelance model websites, keep an eye out for casting calls on your social media groups, and advertise your availability.

Once you land a job, make sure you note all the details regarding the shoot and prepare yourself for the job.

Get a good night’s sleep (we don’t want those dark circles and eyebags!) and make sure you are punctual to your appointments.

9. (Bonus Tip!) Stay Professional, Punctual, And Committed

To succeed as a freelance model, remember to stay professional, punctual, and committed to your craft.

Show respect to everyone you work with, from your agency, stylists, and photographers, to the assistants on set. Making a good impression and building a good relationship will take you a long way.

Always show up to your jobs on time, whether it be castings, shoots, or a runway show.

Time is money for clients, and they will only want to work with models who are reliable. So show that you are serious about your work.

Don’t forget to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Part of becoming a model freelance means that you are committed to making it a part of your lifestyle.

FAQs On How To Become A Freelance Model

What Is A Freelance Model?

So what is a freelance model? The freelance model meaning is someone who models professionally but is not contracted or signed to an agency.

As a freelance model, you will be representing yourself and are responsible for finding and booking your own jobs or work.

This means keeping track of your appointments and schedule and promoting or marketing yourself in order to secure jobs.

It also means educating yourself about the modeling industry, networking with industry professionals, and keeping your portfolio and resume updated.

Difference Between Working For An Agency Vs Freelance Modeling

If you are an agency signed model, your agency will be in charge of finding jobs for you.

This means they have bigger control over your schedule. As an employee of the agency, you may qualify for employee benefits.

Being an agency signed model comes with prestige and usually a higher rate, but the agency also takes a percentage cut of your earnings.

In return for representing you, publicizing you, and taking care of administrative details such as work permits, transport, accommodation, etc especially if you are not a resident of the country.

But freelance modeling meaning you will be responsible for all of these yourself.

This means you will need to look for and contact potential clients yourself, market your portfolio, and take care of your booking schedules and logistics.

Benefits Of Working As A Freelance Model

Now that you know what is freelance modeling, let me tell you the benefits of becoming a free lance model.

As a freelance model, your benefits include:

The flexibility of schedule – accept jobs at your own discretion and time
Taking home 100% of your earnings/payments
Freedom to pursue clients and book jobs – even if you are signed to an agency, there is no guarantee they will find jobs for you
Freedom to change your look – think tattoos, hair color, piercings, body size, etc.
More control over your life – no agency telling you what to do!
Being your own boss

That being said, being a signed model with an agency is usually preferred as it commands higher rates and often lands more jobs.

Most models aim to get signed to reputable agencies, and many models start out as freelance models and continue on to sign for agencies later on.

We all have to start somewhere right?

How Much Do Freelance Models Make?

If you are wondering how much can a model make, a good starting rate for new freelance models is around $50 per hour for studio catalog shoots.

However, if you are just starting out and are trying to build your portfolio, you may have to charge even lower. It’s important to know the details of the shoot so you can adjust your pricing accordingly.

As you gain experience and become well established, you can start raising your rates. Analyze your strengths and progress and decide on a fair rate. An established freelance model can earn up to $150 per hour.

A freelance model salary can vary widely and depend on a lot of factors such as:

Experience – rookie, mid-level, or a seasoned pro
Your look – are you a niche model, high fashion, etc
Shoot type – studio/indoor, outdoor, catalog, lookbook, campaign
Image rights – online-only, print, billboard, etc, and usage duration
Portfolio – how varied or focused your portfolio is
Production size – small business shoot, multinational corporation, big-budget ads, or anything in between

Some models choose to offer pre-set time bookings, i.e, half-day, and full-day rates.

However, this is uncommon in the freelance modeling line, as freelance models usually charge by the hour.

Where Can you Find Freelance Modelling Jobs?

Freelance models can work in as many fields of modeling as they like. For example, as a freelance model, you can work as a print model, promo model, fitness model, runway model, glamour model, catalog model, music video model, commercial model, and many more.

These days it is easier than ever for you to find freelance model jobs. Here are some avenues you can use to find work as a freelance model:

Modeling job boards – Search for model castings all over the world through popular model job sites Model Mayhem or Model Management. These websites list freelance models for hire to casting agents all over the world.

Networking – Make friends with other models – not only will you be getting valuable insight, but you will also be getting your name out there. Friends are also more likely to recommend friends and make sure you return the favor by referring them to your contacts too.

Reach out – Contact photographers, make-up artists, ad agencies, and stylists you want to work with. Let them know that you’re a freelance model for hire. You can also pitch directly to brands and companies you would like to model for. Include your comp card and link to your online portfolio.

Social media – jobs are often posted by brands on their social media pages, and you can also join freelance groups on Facebook where jobs and career advice are posted.

You may also find jobs in related fields such as production extras, trade show models, or stock photography castings which can add to your portfolio

Agencies – As a freelance model, you may have the option of signing non-exclusively to as many modeling agencies as you like. These non-exclusive agencies will get jobs for you and submit your comp card for casting.

The more agencies you sign with the more opportunities you will get. Do note that the agency will keep a percentage of your pay if you land jobs through them.

Just google,’ Freelance model agency + your location’ or ‘Freelance modeling jobs near me.’

Is Freelance Modeling Right For You?

Is freelance modeling right for you? You are off to a great start as a fashion model if you have these qualities:

Self-assured and at ease in your own skin
You are not camera-shy.
You are willing to work hard in order to establish contact and go up the ladder.

Some freelance models fail, while others thrive, and the majority fall somewhere in the middle.

Everyone has to start somewhere, and for inspiration, here are some of the highest-paid models around the world (in no particular order).

1. Gisele Bündchen

Estimated net worth: USD 400 million

A name that is no stranger to the modeling world, Gisele was spotted by Elite Model Management in a shopping mall in So Paulo, Brazil, back in 1994.

She grew up in the Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul, and intended to be a volleyball player at the time, but she enrolled in a modeling class alongside her sisters in the hopes of improving her posture.

She was chosen as a competitor for a nationwide contest with the agency Look of the Year after being noticed by Elite. She appeared in her debut as a runway model in New York Fashion Show in 1996, and her lucrative career took off from there.

In no time, Gisele was recognized as a top professional model.

2. Liu Wen

Estimated net worth: USD 40 million

Born in Yongzhou, Hunan, China, Liu Wen started modeling at her mother’s insistence.

She joined the New Silk Road World Modeling Contest in 2005, and although she did not snag the winning title, she was noticed by a number of Chinese fashion firms.

Before she realized it, she was being booked by high-profile clients in 2007. She was immediately in high demand globally after modeling in publications for Karl Lagerfeld and Viktor & Rolf.

She became the first Asian supermodel to walk the runway of Victoria’s Secret and to land on Forbe’s List of Highest Paid Models.

3. Naomi Campbell

Estimated net worth: USD 80 million

Ah yes, the 80s and 90s, the era of model mayhem.

Naomi Campbell was discovered at the mere age of 15 and soon became one of the revolutionary icons in the modeling and fashion industry.

Campbell is also a performer, having released an R&B-pop album and appearing in films and television series, as well as being associated with a number of humanitarian projects during her career.

4. Ashley Graham

Estimated net worth: USD 10 million

Since her discovery in 2003, Ashley Graham has been parading down the runway and gracing us with her presence on every major magazine cover, demonstrating that being a model is about far more than looks.

The 33-year-old rose to popularity after being the first plus-size model to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated.

5. Iman Abdulmajid

Estimated net worth: USD 200 million

A businesswoman, supermodel, and activist, Iman Abdulmajid has been showcasing her modeling skills since the 1970s!

She was founded by an American photographer while studying in Kenya and relocated to the United States, where she stood out thanks to her exotic appearance that set her apart on the runway and in fashion publications.

What Are The Requirements To Become A Freelance Model?

These are the requirements to become a freelance model!

If you don’t have them, don’t fret. They can be learned over time 🙂

1. Confidence

The most important requirement! You need to be able to work confidently and strut your stuff in front of many people

2. Photogenic

You need to know which angles are flattering, which facial expressions suit your features best, and how to maximize your look in front of the camera.

3. Good Attitude

As a model, you will be working with numerous people, receiving direction and instruction throughout your job. Having a friendly, pleasant, and positive attitude, being able to work well with others, and being open to comments and criticism are crucial.

4. Good Body Proportions

Models usually adhere to specific ranges of measurements in terms of height and proportions. That said, the modeling standards are becoming more inclusive and different body types are getting represented better.

5. Physical Appeal/Beauty

Models will usually have a certain degree of beauty/physical appeal. A toned body, great smile, and clear skin for example.

While classic beauty is very marketable, unique features are becoming increasingly valued and sought after.

6. Knowledge

Modeling is more than just having a pretty face. Knowledge on walking styles, poses, posture, angles, and body language are just some of the things you need to learn.

7. Stress Management

Modeling is a cutthroat and very competitive industry. Knowing how to manage your stress is crucial for your mental health.

8. Personal Grooming

A freelance model should always be presentable, you never know when you will come across job opportunities or catch the eye of scouts.

9. Styling

A big part of being a freelance model is self-promotion, you will stand out with impeccable and unique personal style.

10. Health & Fitness

Photoshoots can last a long time, so stamina and endurance are vital. You should also know how to keep your body (including face and skin) in great condition.

11. Organization And Time Management

You will need to organize your appointments and booking schedule. There’s nothing more damaging to your reputation than being late or missing appointments!

12. Admin Skills

As a freelance model, you will be in charge of your own admin and bookkeeping. This means handling communications, filing your taxes, invoicing and receipts, and accounting.

13. Communication

Besides verbal communication, excellent listening skills are needed to be a successful freelance model. You must be able to receive direction and guidance easily and gracefully.

You must also know how to voice out your concerns/opinions in a gentle and friendly manner.

14. Tech-Savvy

You should be familiar and comfortable with social media and online culture. Having a strong online presence for yourself will help you land clients.

You should also know basic photography and lighting to ensure your portfolio is top-notch.

15. Work Ethic

Like any freelance job, you will have to hustle to build a good reputation.

Networking will help you to grow your client list while keeping updated on trends will put you ahead of the game.

Being reliable and punctual will impress clients and lead to more bookings.

How To Become A Successful Model?

Be professional and friendly – no one likes working with divas or someone with a sour attitude. The more clients are satisfied and impressed by your professionalism, the more referrals, and bookings you receive.

Don’t be afraid to showcase your unique side – if you love dancing, are a fitness enthusiast, or have a passion for the outdoors. Your uniqueness will probably land you niche jobs and make you memorable!

Be relevant – Be up to date and keep your eye on fashion and makeup trends. Better yet – be a trendsetter yourself!

Stay connected – Keep in touch with the professionals, friends, and contacts who helped you on your way up. Keep networking even after you have established yourself – don’t be someone who uses people and then drops them!

Things To Be Aware Of When Freelance Modeling

While modeling freelance may sound glamorous and exciting, there are some things you should always look out for and be aware of.

Scams – The internet is filled with scammers looking to prey on the gullible and naive. Always do a thorough background check on castings and offers to model. Find out as much as you can about any listings, clients, and jobs before signing up.

Extortion – Some unscrupulous scouts may try to extort money out of you in return for jobs – this is a big red flag.

You should never have to pay to model unless it is on your own terms (eg, paying a professional photographer to take your photos)

Contracts – It is in your best interest to have a freelance modeling contract for any jobs you take on. This could be a simple document outlining the agreed payment terms, shoot conditions, etc.

Some clients may prepare a contract for any freelance models they hire – make sure you read through these carefully.

Image usage & model release – When booking a job, always know what the photos will be used for before signing off your model release rights.

If the model release states that the images will be used on your client’s website, yet you find that they also use your photos on printed banners or billboards, for example, you are entitled to charge a separate fee or even sue.

Other Options For Freelance Modelling:

There are many niche options for you to start off as a freelance model. These modeling jobs can usually command a higher rate due to their niche status.

A Face Model

A face model is a term used by the industry to describe beauty shots taken primarily focused on your face. These are highly coveted as they not only mean you will be the face of the product or brand, but will also make you recognizable and springboard your career.

Face models usually represent skincare and cosmetic brands. If you’re interested in how to become a face model, one of the key requirements is flawless skin and balanced proportionate facial features.

A Dance Model

If dancing is in your blood and you can’t stop moving whenever you hear music, maybe becoming a dance model is for you!

If you’re confused about how to become a dance model, just know that as long as you can express emotions through movement, leap and twirl gracefully, and follow choreography easily, you are on the right track!

An Eyelash Model

This is a relatively new field, as more and more people are opting out of wearing false lashes in favor of eyelash extensions or more temporary eyelash lifts. An eyelash model will usually have striking eyes and long, thick lashes.

If you’re interested to know more about how to become an eyelash model, let us know in the comments and we will provide a comprehensive step-by-step guide!

If being your own boss is something that rocks your boat, or if you haven’t been signed to a modeling or talent agency, freelance modeling may be for you!

Through the internet and social media, it’s easier than ever for aspiring models to launch their careers.

Once you start landing jobs, it’s just a matter of having a sunny attitude, being reliable, and expanding your contacts for your career to flourish.

A Foot Model

Here is an in-depth guide to becoming a Foot Model

How To Become An Independent Model?

Follow these steps for how to become an independent model:

Build your portfolio to showcase your versatility
Network with people in the industry
Create a strong social media presence
Send your portfolio to agencies, brands, and photographers to apply for jobs
Take classes and stay up-to-date with the latest trends
Always be professional

How To Become An Instagram Model?

Here are 6 tips on how to become Instagram model:

Find your niche and stick to it
Create high-quality content which you can use as a portfolio
Build your audience
Collaborate with other Instagrammers to increase reach
Engage with your followers and build a relationship with them
Be consistent with your brand messaging

How To Model?

These 7 steps will teach you how to model:

Research the type of modeling you’d like to do
Highlight your best feature and complement it with a unique style
Build a professional portfolio to showcase your versatility
Find a reputable agency
Go to casting calls
Network with industry professionals
Commit to staying fit and healthy

How To Become A Model With No Money?

It is possible to learn how to become a model with no money.

Use Instagram to build a strong presence
Collaborate with a local photographer to build a portfolio for free
Look for unpaid gigs to gain experience
Use every opportunity to build your brand, both online and offline
Attend open casting calls

How To Become A Supermodel?

Learning how to become a supermodel requires a combination of talent, hard work, and luck. Here are some tips:

Showcase your unique look and style in your portfolio
Get signed to one of the top agencies
Build relationships with industry professionals
Commit to staying fit and healthy
Be professional. Your reputation matters.
Expand your brand to gain recognition.

How Can I Start Working As A Model?

If you’re thinking “How can I start working as a model?” follow these steps:

Decide which type of model you want to be
Play up your unique look and style in your portfolio
Take care of your appearance
Sign up with a reputable agency that fits your brand
Attend casting calls and auditions
Expand your network

Is Modelling A Freelance Job?

Yes, modeling can be a freelance job. The meaning of freelance model is you will be responsible for finding and booking your own jobs and negotiating your own rates. Freelance modeling jobs are starting to appear online a lot more these days. You will have to work harder than models signed to agencies, but you won’t have to pay them a commission.

How To Start A Modeling Agency With No Experience?

It’s possible to learn how to start a modeling agency with no experience.

Research and understand the industry
Decide on a niche to identify your target market
Develop a business plan and analyze your competition
Register your business
Build a solid team
Network as much as you can
Launch your agency and promote it

How To Become A Plus Size Model With No Experience?

Here’s how to become a plus-size model with no experience:

Attend modeling classes or workshops to learn posing, runway skills, and makeup application
Build a professional portfolio to show off your versatility
Submit your portfolio to reputable agencies and attend open casting calls
Stay positive, focus on your unique features, and embrace your body shape

Hopefully, this article answered all your questions on what is freelance model and how to become a freelance model – now go strike those killer poses and make some money!

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