Being “scouted” sounds like luck, but most models who get discovered made themselves easy to find. Agencies scout in person, at open calls, through online submissions, and on social media. Here is how each route works and how to raise your chances of being noticed by a real modeling agency, not a scammer.
Key takeaways
- The most reliable way to get scouted is to submit directly to agencies and attend their open calls.
- Agencies want simple, unfiltered digitals, not heavily edited photos.
- A clean, public Instagram or TikTok can help agencies find and evaluate you.
- Real scouts never ask for money, private photos, or bank details.
Where modeling scouts look for new faces
- Online submissions: almost every agency has a “become a model” form. This is where most new models are found.
- Open calls: scheduled times when agencies meet walk in models. Check agency websites and social accounts.
- Social media: scouts browse Instagram and TikTok for fresh faces and strong personalities.
- Events and street scouting: some scouts approach people at malls, schools, festivals, and events.
- Model searches and conventions: be cautious, as some charge large fees. Research before paying anything.
How to make yourself easy to scout
1. Take great digitals
Digitals (or polaroids) are simple photos in natural light with minimal makeup: front headshot, profile, three quarter, and full length in fitted clothing. Agencies trust digitals because they show what you really look like.
2. Know your measurements
Have your height, bust or chest, waist, hips, and shoe size ready. Be accurate. Agencies will measure you anyway.
3. Clean up your social media
Use a public account with a clear profile photo, a short bio with your city and height, and a handful of natural photos. Add “Not signed” or “Looking for representation” if you are open to agencies. Keep content professional.
4. Submit to agencies directly
Follow each agency’s submission rules. Submit to agencies that represent your type, such as fashion, commercial, fitness, plus, petite, or kids. Learn the types in how to become a model.
5. Attend open calls prepared
Bring printed digitals or a comp card, wear simple fitted clothing, and arrive on time. Read what to wear to a casting.
How to tell if a scout is real
- Verify the scout works for the agency by contacting the agency through its official website.
- Real agencies do not charge to sign you or require you to buy their photo package.
- Never send private or revealing photos. Legitimate digitals are simple and fully clothed.
- Parents should be involved in every conversation with a minor.
See all modeling scam red flags.
Frequently asked questions
Can you get scouted on Instagram or TikTok?
Yes. Agencies do scout on social media, but they still ask for digitals and an in person meeting before signing anyone.
Do I need professional photos to get scouted?
No. Agencies prefer simple digitals. Professional test shoots usually come after you sign.
What if I am not tall enough for fashion modeling?
Commercial, print, fitness, petite, parts, and lifestyle modeling have far fewer height rules. Many working models never walk a runway.
Where can I find agencies near me?
Browse our state guides, including modeling agencies in Salt Lake City.
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Written by the Actors Models Wanted editorial team. Last updated October 2026.