3D-Models

If you want to know how to get into modelling you’re certainly curious about how well it pays. Fees can vary dramatically; usually the more well known the brand is, the more you can expect to be paid. Some jobs will pay a fixed rate for the entire shoot and, sometimes, pay models figures that go into the thousands. Large companies are known to pay up to £10,000 plus. Other shoots will pay a fixed hourly rate; this can range from £75 to £250 per hour. Before you book a job, you will always be provided with the payment information; it is then your choice whether you want to take on the job. If you are signed to a modelling agency, it is their role to negotiate on your behalf, and they will always get you the best rate possible – remember that the more you earn, the more they earn! For freelance modelling it is unlikely that you will be able to negotiate on the price. However, you will benefit from receiving the full amount, as opposed to a modelling agency taking their commission off your earnings.

No! The industry is far more diverse than it used to be. Everyone who wants to know how to get into modelling will be pleased to know that a lot of brands and designers are now looking for realistic and relatable
models to advertise their products. There are still restrictions when it comes to high-end and catwalk models: models must be specifically 5 ft 9 inches plus and size 6–10, size zero models no longer rule the industry! Models of all shapes and sizes are now being put on billboards and gracing the pages of magazines. When thinking about how to get into modelling, you need to be realistic when considering the areas that you are aiming for. If unsure why not give someone at Aura Models a call to get some free advice.

When thinking about how to get into modelling, you should know that models under 18 years old are required to have a parent or guardian attend shoots with them. The support a young model receives from their parents is often the key to their success. Child modelling can be a great opportunity to build confidence and have an exciting experience; however, it’s important for children to have someone looking after their best interests and parents are best suited for this role. While on shoots, parents can utilise the time to make contacts with photographers, designers and directors, as contacts are a valuable resource and can lead to more work.

The bottom line is that they take a big cut of your earnings! They also deduct expenses and often models are given very little of what they’ve worked for. In some cases, models are required to sign comprehensive contracts which prevents them from seeking work through other channels. It also ensures they are tied in for a fixed period of time.

Aura Models has a wealth of contacts within the industry. If we think you have what it takes, we can help you access these vital connections. Our database of agencies and casting company contacts, rivalled by no other, covers the industry areas extensively and includes:

• Child modelling
• Fitness modelling
• Teen modelling
• Catwalk modelling
• High Fashion
• Commercial
• Catalogue
• Male modelling
• Film and TV Work
• Plus Size modelling
• Promotional Work
• Body Part modelling

Exclusivity contracts are now rare in mainstream modelling; the only area where they are still commonplace is high-end and catwalk agencies. This is due to the pull that the models have in the industry. Mainstream and commercial models often work on a freelance basis, as they can then sign to multiple agencies. The obvious benefit of this is that the more agencies you are signed to, the more work you will get as well as being able to source your own freelance work.

There should be some alarm bells ringing if a modelling agency doesn’t have a fixed address and suggests meeting at a hotel! You can almost guarantee these are not certified. Any asking for ‘admin’ fees or are pushy about certain shoots or campaigns are also ones you should be avoiding.

Before you agree to any job, your agent will always give you all the information you need to decide if you want to accept it. This information includes:

• What bracket the shoot falls into, e.g. commercial or catalogue?
• Who the shoot is for?
• When the shoot is taking place?
• Where the shoot is taking place?
• The estimated length of the shoot?
• How much you will be paid?
• If there are any travel and hotel arrangements?
• The agency’s commission?

You will find that all agencies have different requirements when applying to them. Some will just require a normal head shot, others a variety of pictures. While you may not necessarily require a portfolio to get signed, you will need one once you are signed or to obtain freelance work. A model’s portfolio is the industry equivalent of a CV, and it is therefore crucial to a model’s success. Modelling portfolios will show potential clients and casting directors your capability, diversity and look. The more that is shown in your portfolio and the stronger it is, the greater the opportunity to receive paid modelling work. Modelling agencies generally require a model to arrange their initial portfolio or they will put one together for you at a fee. However, this should be a one-off investment, as models should receive images from every job they attend, therefore constantly replenishing their portfolio. Freelance models who have a strong, diverse portfolio of quality images are also more likely to find jobs than models with home snaps.