The No-Budget Model Playbook: 6 Steps to Modeling Without Money

There’s a lot more to modeling than being “really, really, ridiculously good-looking” (to quote Derek Zoolander)—money is also often required to break into the industry. Still, with enough perseverance, charm, and, of course, a fierce look, new talent can forge their path to success without spending a dime.

Money is tight for many at the moment, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to make a splash and jump-start your modeling career. Check out these inexpensive (and sometimes free!) strategies to get yourself noticed and find that lucky break.

1. Make yourself an expert.

Find inspiration by studying models you admire and who share your physical attributes. Create a digital vision board of your fashion role models, research their portfolios, signature poses, and career trajectories, and follow them on social media to see how they interact with fans and brands.

Get camera-ready by practicing your model poses, model walk, and microexpressions, then take selfies using your smartphone and a timer. Remember to just say no to filters (unless you’re aiming to be an Instagram baddie), since heavily filtered images are anathema to most modeling agents. 

2. Discover your niche.

Getting discovered is no easy feat; often, only the most eye-catching (and most dedicated!) will stand out enough to be scouted. Here’s how to increase your chances:

Take inventory: Document your body measurements, since different niches have different requirements. You should also note any special features such as super-sharp cheekbones, six-pack abs, or vitiligo.

Figure out your model type—the kind of model you want to be based on your body type, overall look, personality, and interests. Some of the most popular categories are:

• Commercial if you have a relatable, everyday look perfect for advertisements
• Runway if you’re tall with a striking silhouette (typically 5’9”+ for women, 6’+ for men)
• Parts modeling if you have exceptional hands, feet, legs, or other specific features
• Plus-size if you have a fuller figure 
• Fitness modeling if you’re athletic with defined muscle tone

Check out the market: Research the current modeling landscape by reviewing several modeling agencies’ rosters, analyzing brand campaigns and the demographics they feature, and looking into modeling industry publications like Models.com and Women’s Wear Daily to scope out trends. You may also want to consider nontraditional modeling markets like stock photo modeling or a niche that reflects a hyper-specific interest you have (roller derby, reptiles, folding origami… really, there’s a market for nearly everything!).

3. Get images on the cheap.

Once you have your look down, it’s time to build your modeling portfolio. This can be difficult for aspiring models on a budget, since professional images don’t come cheap. It may be worth looking into a trade for print (TFP) photo shoot. Just like models need their picture taken to fill out their portfolios, photographers need to take pictures to bolster their own, and TFP agreements let models and photographers trade services without spending a dime.

4. Build a social media presence.

Thanks to social media, you can make your image free and universally accessible to agents for new talent. These platforms are full of beautiful people looking for their moment to shine, so post quality images that highlight what makes you you using relevant hashtags like #model, #aspiringmodel, #scoutme, and #modelscout. You may also want to tag specific agencies, photographers, brands, and anyone else you’d like to work with. Cross-post modeling content to your other social media pages to get the most eyes on you.

5. Try to get discovered.

Network at industry events like the ones put on by IMTA and HMM, join modeling groups on platforms like Meetup and Reddit, and attend open casting calls to get your face seen.

6. Apply to modeling gigs.

Find modeling gigs for newcomers on our comprehensive model job database. Getting your foot in the door will help you gain confidence and experience while simultaneously padding your portfolio.

7. Budget for the expected—and the unexpected.

While it’s often said that you should never pay to become a model, there are fees that inevitably arise for printing comp cards, keeping your wardrobe fresh, and basic equipment for creating your own content (lights, cameras, etc.). If you don’t have a full-time job, you’ll likely want to take on a survival job (or two) to support yourself until your big break.