How to Become a Freelance Model

Has anyone ever told you that you could be a model? Sure, you were flattered, but how do you get into this career for real? Saying you could be a model is different from being a freelance model.

While you can try to model for an agency, some people prefer the life of being a freelance model. There are plenty of freelance model jobs out there, but breaking into the industry is challenging. After all, how many people want to use their looks for money?

We want to set you on the right track so you can try your hand at becoming a freelance part-time model and earning some money on the side.

Keep reading for our top tips.

As a freelance model, you aren’t restrained by the physical and aesthetic requirements of your modeling agency. That said, this means that you have to pay more attention to your look and make your own decisions.

If you want to model as a certain body type you need to be the best form of that body type. Do what you need to do to be the best version of that body type, but keep it safe and don’t do anything that would have negative consequences on your mental or physical health.

Aiming for fitness? Get those abs popping. More interested in fashion? Remember that you’re the hanger for the outfit. If you are wanting to be the average person next door, there are gigs for that as well.

You should also make sure that your hair is healthy and well-styled and your teeth are sparkly and white. Taking care of your appearance and refining your look over time will help you carve out the specifics of the style you are going for.

Agency models are limited niche-wise. As a freelancer, you have more flexibility. What niche do you fit into? There is a niche for everyone and there are paying gigs for all types, you just need to find yours.

If you have tattoos and piercings that keep you away from agencies you’ll be a perfect fit for alternative modeling. Alternative models work well in alternative fashion or modeling for piercing jewelry companies.

If you want to focus on modeling as a “plus-sized” person, target your self-marketing to that niche.

Not everyone can be a high-fashion model. Find the modeling type that works for you. There are plenty to choose from and embracing your facial and body features and even accentuating them can be your ticket to standing out amongst the competition.

Simply perform a Google search for the niche you think you fit into and find the online communities for that type, find the job sites, find the companies that typically hire that type of model and start reching out.

Social media is non-negotiable. As a model, you’re selling your appearance and trying to find new clients at all times. You don’t have a marketer to support you yet!

Instagram is the best choice for models by far. Make sure you use your hashtags wisely so you turn up in the tags for your chosen niche.

TikTok has also become quite popular, but sticking with the still image formate of Instagram is typically the best way to show off your best images.

While you may be taking a lot of these photos on your own, you should keep yourself photo-ready at all times. These photos should be polished and show off the best side of you.

Many “Insta-models” find a lot of success using Instagram and finding supporters by posting fun images of them doing every day things like getting ready in the morning, walking through the park, having lunch, and more.

The key is to look like this whole modeling thing comes natural to you. Don’t make the images look forced or like you are trying too hard, this can be a turn off for scouts.

There are freelance photographers out there who are looking for freelance models to collab with. You can be that model.

Not only does this get you involved in your local art community, but it also gives you a portfolio of photos and potentially a bit of pay. Not all collaborations are paid, so make sure that you’re comfortable with whatever the exchange entails.

If you can find a photographer who is trying to build a portfolio, or a social media manager trying to do the same, you may be able to exchange work with one another.

Need a website? See if you can find a local freelance web developer who is trying to build a portfolio as well. The possibilities are endless and there are always local networking events, online communities, and other places online and off to find other freelancers to collaborate.

Now that you have the basics covered and you are ready to put yourself out there, here is freelance model Amz to explain how to find paying gigs. She does a deep dive into the various sites and tips on how to find the modeling gigs that you are looking for.

Becoming a freelance model isn’t easy, but with the rise of social media and digital communication, there are more opportunities now than ever.

Remember, keep an open mind and remember that you’re in charge of your own modeling destiny. Market yourself as though you’re the best model in town and people will believe it.

Want to know more about becoming a successful freelancer? We’ve got a few suggestions. Visit our site to apply to our school for freelancers so you can get your career started on the right track.