Key takeaways
- Most modeling work is commercial, catalog, and lifestyle, open to many ages, sizes, and looks.
- Start with simple natural light digitals rather than expensive photo shoots.
- Submit through agency websites or open calls and research every agency first.
- Legitimate agencies do not require large upfront fees to represent you.
Modeling is not just runway and magazine covers. Most working models book commercial, catalog, and fitness jobs, and brands today hire people of every age, size, and background. If you are wondering how to become a model, start by understanding the types of modeling and which ones fit you.
Types of modeling
- Fashion and runway: the most specific requirements. Agencies often look for tall models with particular measurements, especially for high fashion.
- Commercial and lifestyle: ads for everyday products and services. Real, relatable looks of all ages and sizes are in demand.
- Catalog and ecommerce: photos for retail websites and catalogs. Steady work for models who are professional and efficient on set.
- Fitness and athletic: for sportswear, gyms, and wellness brands.
- Parts modeling: hands, feet, hair, or other features for close up product shots.
- Plus size and curve: a large and growing market across fashion and commercial work.
- Mature models: brands increasingly cast models over 40, 50, and beyond.
- Kids and teen modeling: clothing, toys, and family products. See our parent’s guide.
Steps to start modeling
- Figure out your market. Be honest about which types of modeling fit your look, height, and goals.
- Take simple digitals. Natural light, minimal makeup, fitted plain clothing, and front, profile, and full length shots.
- Research reputable agencies. Look at who they represent and what jobs their models book.
- Submit to agencies through their official websites or open calls.
- Build your portfolio over time with test shoots, often arranged through your agency.
- Protect yourself. Never pay a large upfront fee to be represented. Read our scam red flags guide.
Skills that help models book work
- Knowing your angles and how to move between poses.
- Taking direction quickly and staying positive on long shoot days.
- Arriving on time with clean, simple hair and skin.
- Maintaining a professional social media presence.
Modeling and acting together
Many people pursue both. Commercial acting and commercial modeling overlap, and the professional habits you build in one help in the other. Learn more in our guide to finding legitimate acting auditions.
Frequently asked questions
Do you have to be tall to be a model?
Height requirements mostly apply to high fashion and runway. Commercial, catalog, fitness, parts, and many other categories welcome a wide range of heights.
How do I start modeling with no experience?
Take clear natural light digitals, research reputable agencies, and submit through their official channels. Your agency can help you build a portfolio.
Is it too late to start modeling?
No. Brands regularly hire mature models, and commercial and lifestyle work spans every age.
What are open calls?
Open calls are scheduled times when an agency meets new faces in person. Check agency websites for dates and requirements.
Ready to take the next step? Tell us about yourself and our team will reach out about auditions and opportunities in your area. Get started here or browse audition locations.
Written by the Actors Models Wanted editorial team. Last updated September 2026.