
Becoming a model without a rep by your side can feel like a daunting task. But in the words of world-famous runway icon Chanel Iman, “It takes time to be who you really want to be. It doesn’t happen overnight.”
If freelancing feels like your way into the industry, consider the pros and cons below—as well as the steps to get you there.
What is freelance modeling? Freelance models operate without representation by an agency. They approach each potential gig and client individually, relying on their personal brand. Essentially, you’re an entrepreneur who sells your image to clients, whether for runway shows, commercials, print, or any other niche.
Becoming a freelance model is straightforward in theory. Just start, and boom, you’re in. Actually finding success and developing a long-term career is, of course, more complicated. Here are some broad steps to follow if you’re determined to make independent modeling a reality.
Steps to becoming a freelance model
- Compile a portfolio. A high-quality portfolio is any model’s bread and butter, especially for freelancers. Make sure to include an assortment of photos (ideally headshots, digitals, a full-body shot, and a creative choice). When you’re just starting out, find a photographer you feel comfortable with. After you begin to book gigs, you can swap in professional photos.
Remember: Your portfolio should instantly express your strengths and demonstrate a wide range of experiences. As a freelancer, standing out is especially important. You need to prove to clients, at a glance, that you’re worth their time and money.
- Create your comp card. This is essentially your business card, and it’s a vital tool for getting booked. In addition to photos, it must include your personal stats (height, weight, body measurements, hair color, and eye color) and contact information (including any social media handles).
- Find jobs. Landing projects as a newbie is a challenge. Browse reputable job sites like Backstage for modeling auditions, use social media, and contact local businesses.
- Develop your social media presence. A robust online presence is an absolute must for any model, freelance or otherwise. You should post often on platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok to keep your brand fresh. If you stay consistent with your posts’ quantity and quality, you’ll not only create a public portfolio but also increase your chances of being noticed by potential clients.
- Familiarize yourself with the business side. When you freelance, it’s not just about being in front of the camera. Consider creating an LLC for yourself to separate business from personal finances. Study the ins and outs of modeling contracts and release forms. Stay up-to-date with standard industry rates to ensure you’re being compensated fairly.
- Practice, practice, practice. Becoming a freelancer means never getting complacent. Always check in on major campaigns and shows to see what the top models are doing. Look in the mirror to make sure you know your angles. Fine-tune your walk and poses. Learning or refreshing your acting skills can help diversify your gigs.
“If the ad is for a pharmaceutical product and the model needs to show pain, feel uncomfortable, or show relief, then the actor/commercial model needs to tap into all of his acting skills and not only show that look but also give the photographer many choices,” says actor and model Aaron Marcus. “All of my years of acting classes kick in during photo shoots. I treat commercial modeling jobs like any acting job.” - Stay adaptable. As a freelance model, you have to stay aware and agile. Keep informed on the latest industry trends, news, and what your peers are pursuing. Adaptability also means being open to feedback and willing to adjust your approach, so listen to your clients and peers when they offer you advice.
- Fill a niche. Being a freelance model means you have all the freedom in the world to pivot and explore new opportunities. Take advantage of that fact to fill a particular niche of your look and style—or even a specific body part.
- Advocate for yourself. Freelance models rarely get a day off. You have to commit to furthering your career whenever possible, whether that’s posting to social media, attending a casting call, or refreshing your portfolio. Working freelance—and essentially being your own agent—means embracing every aspect of modeling, both the glamorous and the tedious. You’ll have to learn from every experience and create your own success; that means taking risks and being persistent.
How much do freelance models make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, models in the US earn between $27,170 and $165,000 per year on average. It’s a stark difference, which shows that there’s room for models to grow in the industry, but it’s a challenge to get to the top.
Whether you make more money as a freelance model than working with an agency depends on your specific situation. You won’t have to pay fees as an independent model, but you might not book as consistently, either. Similarly, projects in major cities like New York and Los Angeles will net you higher rates, but there will also be more competition.
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Freelance modeling pros
- You’ll make personal business connections. When you work for or through representation, there will always be a barrier between you and the clients. However, freelancing allows you to always be the one speaking with the other side. That means creating more intimate and potentially lucrative relationships in the industry.
- You don’t have to share your money. Most models are paid per show or session, meaning that you have to budget well to stay on your feet. Pocketing the cash that would’ve otherwise gone to your representation (typically between 10% and 25%) can make a world of difference.
- Your career, your choices. Are you the kind of person who doesn’t want to leave anything up to chance? If so, freelance modeling may be right up your alley. You’ll have the first and last say on how and where you spend your time. You also get to be more creative with what kinds of shoots to do and how to curate your aesthetic. Sharp models will create unique brands that will make them stand out against others.
Freelance modeling cons
- Less support for your career. When you’re on your own, you can’t access the considerable resources that seasoned modeling agencies provide. Good reps help their models grow as professionals, give them invaluable insights, and connect them with industry professionals and potential long-term clients. Since they take a cut of your earnings, they want you to succeed.
- Fewer resources for promotion. Agencies have deep connections and pockets. Since marketing is a huge aspect of the job, many models use agencies as their primary promo tool. Without that resource, you’ll have to get creative with your marketing and spend out of your own budget to succeed.
- Less protection. Having complete control is a double-edged sword. You’re more motivated than anyone to elevate your career, but you’re completely responsible if things go south due to a misunderstanding or malicious intent. If you’re working as a freelance model, you won’t have access to agency lawyers when it comes to signing complex contracts.