Types of modelling jobs

There are various different paths down which a career in modelling can progress. Here’s an introduction to some of the different types of modelling jobs.

Show models

Show models may be involved in a wide range of assignments from modelling clothes and fashion accessories at catwalk and fashion shows to displaying and promoting non-fashion items, for example exhibitions for product launches of cars or furniture. You’ll need to have good posture as well as a bubbly personality and the confidence to perform in front of large crowds of people.

Fashion designer models

Fashion designer models are employed by fashion houses to model and drape their clothes during the tailoring process and to display the finished articles to journalists and prospective buyers as well as promote them at fashion and catwalk shows. Again, good posture is essential and you’ll also need to be a confident performer in front of an audience.

Photographic models

Normally employed for catalogues, magazines and advertisements, photographic models are photographed in the photographer’s studio or on location. You’ll usually be required to strike poses against a specially designed set or background to capture a very specific look. Patience and cooperation are essential with this type of modelling as it can take a photographer several shots to get the look they’re after. If you’re lucky, you may also get the opportunity to work in video shoots for television or cinema adverts.

Lingerie modelling and glamour modelling

It goes without saying that lingerie models and glamour models have to expose a lot of flesh. It takes a great deal of confidence in your body image to be able to strip off for the camera. Don’t be pushed into this type of modelling if you are not comfortable with it and be assertive – have the confidence to say no to anything you do not want to do. Rogue agencies and scams are common in the field of glamour modelling, so always do some investigation into the agency before signing up with them to ensure they are genuine and reputable otherwise you could end up being ripped off or exploited. A good agency will not ask you for any money in advance, and most reputable agencies are registered with a professional body such as the AMA, the Association of Model Agents.

Child and teenage modelling

Beauty isn’t the only key factor for success as a child model – good behaviour is just as important. Modelling schedules and shoots are very tight and demanding and photographers, designers and directors need children who do as they are told when they are told in a confident and polite manner without tears or tantrums. If your child is a model, it’s a big commitment for you as well as them. You’ll have to manage their time and take them wherever they need to go, so you’ll have to be flexible and able to change plans at the last minute. Fees for assignments will be paid into your child’s name, and there may also be additional chaperone fees paid to you for your time. Modelling is only suitable for your child if they enjoy it and you should never push your child into doing something they don’t want to do. If they find it tiring, stressful or boring, don’t force them to do it and accept that modelling isn’t right for them.

If your child or teenager is working as a model, you must obtain permission in the form of a licence from your local council. This measure is put in place to safeguard their welfare and to ensure that their education does not suffer.

Plus-size and petite modelling

Thankfully there is now more recognition in the fashion world of the fact that not everyone is tall and slim, and there is a demand for larger and smaller models for plus-size and petite modelling. Plus-size models tend to be around size 14 to 18, while petite models tend to be under 5’ 5”. Being a plus-size or petite model doesn’t bring as much work, though, so it’s not always easy to break into the field full-time.