In gauging an individual’s potential to make it as full-time model it is necessary to weight up a variety of different factors. While a great personality and look are both musts, in reality, a model needs more to succeed in the industry. This article will explore the viability of turning a passion for modelling into a full-time career, including an overview of desirable traits and characteristics and advice for models just starting out.
Many models find it challenging to secure enough full-time work to make a living, particularly at the start of their career journey. Reaching the pinnacle of a highly competitive industry like fashion requires drive and determination, as well as an inordinate amount of hard work. Nevertheless, with the right look, mindset, energy and opportunities, some models go on to enjoy extraordinary success in this exciting yet challenging industry.
Whether an individual has what it takes to become a professional model is largely a matter of luck. A person is either born with an aesthetically appealing face and meets the required physical criteria or they do not.
The ‘X-factor’ is incredibly difficult to define. Even with all the right elements, becoming a successful model isn’t easy. While some people will have the right character and looks for the industry, they may still struggle to gain traction.
For a fashion brand targeting a younger demographic that is keen to spend on fashion and try out new trends, there is a predilection for young, fresh faces, which is why most fashion models are aged in their late teens or early twenties. Nevertheless, there are still opportunities for models of all ages in commercial modelling or working for brands focusing on older demographics. Although modelling is typically regarded as a young person’s vocation, in reality many people continue to succeed in the industry irrespective of age.
Models must be mentally prepared for the demands of the job in addition to the physical challenges. In the course of their career, models routinely face scrutiny, criticism and rejection from photographers, designers and the public. They must therefore have a positive attitude, as well as maintaining a healthy diet and fitness regime, remaining calm under pressure and committed to achieving their professional goals.
The salary of a professional model in the UK can vary significantly from one model to the next due to a range of different factors. To increase their pay, models have a number of options, including taking on more clients, working in a hybrid manner combining freelance and agency work, and investing in marketing themselves more efficiently.
Succeeding as a professional fashion model requires dedication and commitment, particularly at the start of their career. To succeed, they need to gain experience and build up their portfolio, requiring them to invest significant time and effort with little reward in the early days. Models must continually work to improve themselves and hone their skills, attending casting calls, photo shoots and runway shows.
About UK Models
UK Models is the UK’s leading model support system. The organisation helps individuals who are interested in embarking on a modelling career to access the information, advice and resources they need to succeed and thrive. Operational for almost two decades, UK Models reviews aspiring models, helping them to take their all-important first steps and forge a pathway to a successful career. In addition to providing valuable networking opportunities, UKModels also helps aspiring models to assess their potential and showcase their talent through the creation of high-quality portfolios.