So, You Want to Be a Model: Part V Let’s Get Started! How to Take Action, Build Work, and Get Visible
You’ve read about the industry. You’ve learned how to be bookable. You’ve seen how submissions, agencies, and safety really work. Now comes the most important part: actually starting.
Modelling doesn’t wait for permission, luck, or the “perfect” moment. The models who make progress are the ones who start acting today, with what they have, and improve as they go. This is your roadmap.
Step 1: Get Visible on Professional Platforms
The first thing you can do is make yourself findable.
Sign up for reputable modelling platforms like:
ModelManagement.com Is one of the largest platform for models to find work or work with Photographers and Videographers on TFP, Test Shoots, Campaigns and more
Social networks with professional groups, like Facebook casting/modeling groups or LinkedIn portfolios for creatives
Build up your Instagram on an account that is purely made for Modelling and keep it up to date at much as you can
If you are more interested in more Not Safe for Work images, you can also look into Purpleport to find photographers to work with.
These platforms are not about vanity - they are about connecting with photographers, stylists, and agencies who are actively seeking talent. Make sure your profile is accurate: upload natural, simple images (headshot, full body, neutral expression), your stats, and a short professional description.
Step 2: Start Networking — Talk to Creatives
Don’t wait to be discovered. Reach out to photographers, stylists, makeup artists, and other creatives. Many of them are happy to collaborate on TFP / test shoots, especially beginners who are eager and reliable.
A few key points when approaching photographers:
Be clear about the purpose of the shoot (TFP, portfolio, experimentation)
Suggest concepts or ideas but be open to their guidance
Ask for examples of their work so you can assess professionalism
Confirm usage rights in writing
This is not just about images — it’s about learning how shoots run, how to pose, and how to behave professionally on set. Every session is practice in confidence and adaptability.
Step 3: Learn Posing and Build Confidence
Camera presence is a skill. You can’t rely on instinct alone. Begin:
Practising in front of a mirror
Studying poses from magazines, portfolios, and social media
Noticing how your body moves, where your hands go, how your expression changes
Experimenting with small movements and angles
The goal is not perfection — it’s fearlessness. The camera responds to presence and confidence more than flawless execution.
Step 4: Review Your Wardrobe and Start Moodboarding
Your images need clarity and intention. Begin by reviewing your wardrobe:
Simple, fitted basics for TFP/test shoots and polaroids
One or two statement pieces to show personality
Neutral colours that don’t distract from your face
Start moodboarding: collect images that capture your style, the vibe you want to project, and the types of shoots you admire. This helps you articulate your creative vision to photographers and agencies. It also keeps your portfolio cohesive.
Step 5: Start Creating Work Immediately
This is where most beginners stall: waiting for someone to hire you. Stop waiting. Make it happen.
Set up TFP/test shoots with photographers you’ve contacted
Use your wardrobe and moodboards to plan looks
Take natural, clean images for your first portfolio
Gradually experiment with more expressive or styled images once you’re comfortable
Even if the first few images aren’t perfect, the process of making work teaches you more than anything else. You can refine as you go — perfection comes after practice.
Step 6: Build Your Portfolio & Polaroids
Once you have some work:
Curate 5–10 strong images for your initial portfolio (headshots, full body, neutral and expressive looks)
Have polaroids (digitals) ready for agency submissions
Make sure both portfolio and digitals clearly show your look without over-styling
A portfolio is your resume. Polaroids are your audition. Both must be clean, professional, and intentional.
Step 7: Keep Learning and Improving
Even as you create work, keep sharpening your skills:
Study other models’ poses and expressions
Learn lighting basics — it helps you understand what looks good in photos
Stay active on professional platforms, posting selectively and strategically
Reflect on each shoot — what went well, what could improve
Improvement comes from consistent, purposeful action.
Step 8: Stay Safe and Professional
As you start, remember everything from Part IV:
Only meet photographers in safe, professional environments
Always clarify TFP/test shoot agreements in writing
Trust your instincts — discomfort is a warning, not a hurdle
Protect your boundaries at all times
Being fearless doesn’t mean being reckless. Safety and professionalism are part of building a career that lasts.
Step 9: Repeat, Refine, and Grow
This is not a one-off checklist. Getting started is iterative:
Make connections
Shoot TFP sessions
Review images
Update your portfolio
Submit to agencies when ready
Each step teaches you more about your strengths, your look, and how the industry functions. Momentum builds from doing, not wishing.
Closing: Make It Happen
The difference between models who wait and models who move forward is action. Stop waiting for permission, opportunity, or the perfect moment. Start now: get on the right platforms, learn how to pose, reach out to photographers, test ideas, build work, and take your portfolio seriously.
If you’re ready to stop guessing and start building properly, this is where to begin. I work with new and developing models through TFP and test shoots designed to build confidence, camera awareness, and strong, usable portfolio images - not just photos for social media.
If you’re serious about modelling and want to create work with intention, get in touch. Introduce yourself, share where you’re at in your journey, and let’s see if a test shoot makes sense.
The industry responds to action.
Be intentional. Be fearless. Make it happen.