How to Start a Modeling Career With No Experience: A Beginner’s Guide

As an aspiring model, entering the industry can often feel overwhelming. With so much information and uncertainty, knowing where to start isn’t always clear. Read below to learn how to navigate your way through the modeling industry.

Understand the Type of Modeling You Want to Do

This step is very important. Before stepping into the industry, you need to understand what type of modeling you want to pursue.

Do you want to be a runway model, a face model, or a fashion/magazine model? All of these paths are valid, but choosing one helps you focus your energy and develop the right skills.

• Runway models need to work consistently on walk and posture.
  
  
• Face models need to focus on skincare and facial expression.
  
  
• Magazine models combine posing, angles, and editorial presence.
  
  

Defining your modeling path is the first step toward confidently walking the runway or landing a magazine cover.

Build Your Portfolio

Building a portfolio might sound scary at first, like “a whole portfolio?” but take a breath. It’s not as intimidating as it sounds.

A portfolio isn’t only for models who are already established; it’s just as important for aspiring models who want to be taken seriously.

1. Take Digitals

Digitals (Polaroids) are natural, unedited photos with minimal or no makeup. They’re especially important for face models, runway models, and magazine models. Agencies and clients rely on digitals to see what you look like naturally.

2. Get Your Measurements

Know your height, weight, hair color, eye color, and other relevant measurements. Being unprepared at a casting or scouting session can cost you an opportunity.

3. Build Your Personal Brand

Even with an agency, a personal brand is non-negotiable. Post consistently on your social media platforms and position yourself as the kind of model agencies and clients are looking for. Your audience includes agencies, fashion enthusiasts, and people looking to hire models.

4. Join an Agency (Optional)

Agencies can help you secure bigger and international opportunities. You can check websites like models.com or use the “Become a Model” section on agency websites to submit your digitals and stats. Attending agency walk-in castings is another option.

Be cautious: there are scammers and exploitative agencies. To avoid them:

• Do proper research on the agency
  
  
• Check their website and social media presence
  
  
• Look for models they currently represent
  
  

Questions to consider asking:

• How long is the contract duration?
  
  
• What percentage commission does the agency take?
  
  
• Are there any upfront fees?
  
  

You don’t need to ask all of them, they’re a guide to help you make informed decisions.

Work on Developing Skills

Every successful model started somewhere. From runway stars to face and magazine models, no one is born knowing exactly how to walk, pose, or work the camera. Developing your skills is essential.

1. Practice Your Walk and Poses

You don’t need a runway or professional studio. Start by posing in front of a mirror or walking in your room. Ask friends or family to record you so you can review and improve.

• Runway models: focus on posture, balance, confidence
  
  
• Face/magazine models: focus on facial expressions, angles, camera posing
  
  

2. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Eating well, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and maintaining good hygiene all contribute to how you look and feel. Face and magazine models especially benefit from a consistent skincare routine.

3. Consider Modeling Classes

Modeling classes can refine your skills and boost confidence. They often cover runway walking, posing, camera awareness, and industry etiquette. While optional, they can accelerate improvement for beginners.

Put Yourself Out There

This step cannot be overemphasized. Attend scouting events, runway shows, fashion shows, and other industry-related gatherings.

• Don’t isolate yourself, make connections
  
  
• Introduce yourself and discuss your interest in modeling
  
  
• Share your experience as an aspiring model
  
  

These conversations may lead to opportunities with potential clients.

Be Consistent & Professional

Like every worthwhile pursuit, building a modeling career takes time. There’s no magic formula. While some models may progress faster than others, every journey is unique, especially across different niches.

Stay patient, focused, and professional:

• Show up on time
  
  
• Communicate clearly
  
  
• Treat every opportunity with respect
  
  

Consistency, professionalism, and good etiquette go a long way toward long-term growth in the industry.

Starting a modeling career with no experience may feel intimidating, but every expert was once a beginner. By understanding your path, building your portfolio, developing your skills, and staying consistent and professional, you’re setting yourself up for success.

Remember, patience and persistence are key. Keep learning, practicing, and putting yourself out there,  the opportunities will come.

Ready to take your first step? Join ModReps today to access resources, events, and guidance to help you launch your modeling journey.