Whether you have a particular look or style that distinguishes you or you’re simply an excellent model, it takes time to rack up shoots and build a portfolio. The key to success is a professional attitude and being punctual.
Staying up to date on industry trends is also important. Follow these tips to help you maximise your earning potential as a freelance model.
1. Build a Strong Portfolio
A model’s portfolio is one of the most important tools in her arsenal. It’s what attracts clients and showcases the model’s talent, versatility, and professionalism. It also allows a model to set herself apart from the competition. Models can make their own websites to host their portfolio, or they can hire someone with digital expertise to do it for them.
A portfolio should contain high-quality pictures and a range of poses and shots. It’s also helpful to include photos of the model both with and without makeup. If the model has a special feature, such as a certain piercing or tattoo, they should include those photos too.
The first thing to consider when making a modeling portfolio is what type of model you want to be. Some models specialize in a specific genre of modeling, such as commercial or editorial, while others focus on a particular aspect of the industry, such as swimwear or fashion. This will help the model decide which shots to include in their portfolio.
Next, the model should set up a website that features her best pictures. Having a website makes it easy for clients and casting directors to view the model’s work. The website can be hosted by a third party, or the model can create it herself using a free website builder. A model should also make sure her contact information is clearly listed on the website. This can be on a separate contact page or in the site’s footer.
Models should also promote their work on social media, such as Instagram, Youtube, and Facebook. Some models have built a name for themselves in the industry simply by using their social media accounts to share their photos and videos.
In addition to promoting their work, model should network with other industry professionals, such as photographers, make-up artists, and stylists. This can lead to collaborating on shoots and landing modeling gigs.
It is also important for a model to stay positive and confident on the job. This will help her to overcome any rejection she may face, and it will also encourage potential clients to take a chance on her.
2. Get a Comp Card
A Comp Card is a model’s version of a business card. It contains your headshot and a few of your best photos. You can also include a short professional description. It is important to have your comp cards updated regularly, as an outdated one may cost you opportunities.
In addition to being a visual resume, a modeling comp card showcases your range of skills and versatility. This makes it a great marketing tool that can help you get more gigs and increase your paycheck. It is often the first thing a client sees when a model comes to them for casting or go-sees, which makes it crucial to have a strong one.
The most popular format of a model’s comp card is a rectangular piece of paper that has a headshot, multiple smaller photos with your stats and contact details printed on them. It is important to have a few different versions of your comp cards, tailored for specific client requirements. For example, a client looking for a woman in modest-wear might be more interested in seeing you in full-length photos than in close-ups.
You can also find online services that allow you to create a digital comp card. These can be accessed by clients and agencies on computers or mobile phones. They can even be uploaded to a model’s website or social media page. However, it’s important to remember that an online comp card is still just a digital representation of your portfolio, so it’s important to have a physical copy too.
If you are working with an agency, your booker will usually decide which photos to put on a model’s comp card. They know the industry and what sort of work will sell, so it’s best to trust their judgement. They will also be able to advise you on which shots are the most recent and highest quality.
For freelance models, it’s best to have a few printed comp cards to hand out to potential clients. You can also post them on your social media pages and professional modelling websites to get attention. However, be careful with how you distribute your comp cards as you don’t want to spam people with them. It’s a good idea to have a plan of where, when and to whom you are going to distribute them to.
3. Get a Casting Photo or Video
Occasionally, freelance modeling jobs will ask for casting photos or videos instead of a traditional portfolio. These are typically taken on a neutral background by a professional, using natural lighting. Be sure to follow any prompts provided by the client and wear clean, flattering clothing. Keeping in mind that you might be seen by a lot of people, make sure the photo or video shows your most attractive face, but also highlights other parts of your body. You can also consider doing a few “edgy” shots as well, which might make you stand out from the crowd.
It is often a good idea to create a website for yourself as a freelance model, where you can host your modeling work and show off some of your best photos. You can also join online modeling forums and job boards, which may give you opportunities to find freelance modeling jobs.
Many freelance models use their connections in the industry to get work, especially if they know photographers or makeup artists. You can also network with other models and look for local events in your area, where you can meet potential clients. Some of these individuals might be able to refer you for future gigs, and you can also seek out their advice about how to break into the business.
Successful models are able to manage their careers successfully, which includes being punctual and professional at all times. If you can impress clients with your professionalism, you are likely to see a spike in bookings for your services. Similarly, being friendly and respectful is important, and you should not treat other models like competition.
A positive reputation is incredibly important for any freelancer, but it is even more vital for a model. Failing to follow directions and ignoring or disregarding the preferences of clients is not only unprofessional but can damage your reputation. In the end, it is not worth losing out on a job because you were lazy, a diva or unwilling to follow simple instructions.
Another important aspect of managing your career is to always read modeling contracts carefully before agreeing to them. You should be aware of the terms and conditions, including payment and image usage, and be willing to negotiate if necessary. Lastly, you should never sign up for a job that does not include a model release form or statement of work. This can prevent you from being sued by the client for any unauthorized uses of your photos.
4. Stay Professional
While many people dream of becoming a freelance model, it’s important to remember that it takes time, dedication and networking skills to build a sustainable income. Be prepared for a lot of rejection, especially at the beginning of your career, and don’t get discouraged. Stay professional by always following through on your commitments, avoiding scams and doing your research. You’ll also need to be sure that you’re budgeting properly for self-employed tax and national insurance obligations.
A strong personal brand statement and a magnetic visual portfolio can help you get noticed by potential clients and land gigs. It’s also crucial to make sure that you have a reliable network of photographers, designers and other models who can help you with your modeling career. It’s also a good idea to attend events and modeling shows in your area to meet other models and connect with fashion designers.
It’s also essential for freelance models to keep their administrative skills sharp, as they will be responsible for booking and tracking their own work. They should also be familiar with basic photography and lighting techniques to ensure that their portfolios and casting photos are top-notch.
In addition to these skills, it’s important for freelance models to maintain a positive attitude and have confidence on the set. This helps them to overcome the stress of managing their own business and can encourage other clients to hire them.
As with any type of job, it’s important to balance your work and personal life. Take some time out for yourself to relax and recharge. Whether it’s a day at the spa, a movie night with friends, or some time on your own reading a book, finding a way to unwind can help you stay focused and motivated in your career.
Freelance modelling can be a rewarding and exciting way to earn a living. With the right combination of skills, connections, and a well-crafted portfolio, you can start to build a successful freelance modeling career that’s both flexible and lucrative. Good luck!
