Making Waves: How to Become a Swimsuit Model in 8 Steps

A swimsuit model promotes all kinds of swimwear products for women and men. They’re more than just the bikini-clad women you see on magazine covers; you’ll see them in advertisements for just about every brand that sells swimsuits. Actor and model Meghan Roberts says, “Swimwear is everywhere these days, from Amazon to Fashion Nova to Net-a-Porter. Swimwear models are booked for swim brand catalogs and for e-commerce, which is basically shooting the products you see online.”

Outside of the digital sales and marketing space, you’ll find swimsuit and bikini models doing showroom modeling, which, Roberts says, “is exactly what it sounds like: Models wear swimwear garments in designer showrooms during buyer meetings.” 

A third job a swimsuit model may be employed for is as a fit model, where the model acts as a live mannequin during the production of swimwear. “I try on the first few prototypes of new designs and explain to designers and seamstresses how to make the garment fit better,” Roberts explains of her time as a swimwear fit model. “I’m mainly booked by larger companies that own multiple swimwear brands as well as a lot of smaller brands that are popular on social media.”

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How much a swimsuit model makes depends on several factors, including where they’re modeling, what brands they’re working for, and their level of experience. While actors have unions like SAG-AFTRA and Equity, where minimum fees are negotiated for performers, there is no modeling union. Every project is negotiated anew. 

Notable models like Kate Upton, Allie Ayers Lindsey, Brooks Nader, and Tanaye White will earn quite a bit more than someone just getting started in the industry. A model’s annual income is also dependent on projects that they may have outside of bikini modeling gigs. Supermodels like Tyra Banks and Emily Ratajkowski, for instance, have leveraged their careers into hosting contracts, book deals, and more. 

“Print models of any type get different rates,” says model representative Allee Newhoff. “No model’s careers are exactly the same. In terms of payment, the rate completely depends on what the job is, what the hours are, what the usage is, and who the model is and their experience level. It totally depends!” She says it’s also worth noting that “there isn’t usually an added fee for swimwear like there is for lingerie.”

That said, for swimsuit models starting out, Roberts says she has found in her experience that a model should expect to make $1,000–$2,000 per day for a professional swimwear photoshoot.

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1. Refine your physique.

If you’d specifically like to become a bikini model, remember that your physique is, by design, on full display, so maintaining your fitness is paramount. Fortunately, the physical requirements for modeling swimsuits have become more inclusive. Newhoff says she has noticed a shift in the market over the years, from “very thin models” to healthier and curvier physiques. Lately, swimsuit modeling across the board has “celebrated every body type,” she explains.

2. Research swimsuit campaigns.

Look at recent digital swimwear campaigns, magazines, product websites, and catalogs. Carefully study different types of swimsuit models and what they are doing in the shots. This preliminary research will help you understand what is expected of swimsuit models during a shoot and which areas of swimwear to focus on.

3. Make a modeling portfolio.

Your modeling portfolio should showcase your best assets. Images should be “simple with good lighting and no distractions,” Newhoff advises. That means no jewelry, no filters, and a clean, clear face. 

Speaking from her own experience as an actor and model, Roberts adds, “Make sure you have good, natural lighting and a plain background; and take photos in both a form-fitting outfit—black is best—and a bikini.”

4. Build your social media presence.

Swimsuit modeling tends to be social-forward, so strive to create an online presence—particularly on image-focused platforms like Instagram—that showcases yourself as someone making a splash in the swimwear realm. Post photos of yourself swimming, at the beach, and by the pool using hashtags like #swimwearmodel, #swimsuitmodel, #bikinimodel, and #swimsuitseason.

5. Get involved.

Try applying to specialized events such as the Miss Bikini Swimsuit & Fitness Model Search, Sports Illustrated Swim Search, Swimsuit USA, and NPC’s Bikini Division to get your face (and bikini bod) out there.

6. Find representation.

Like with any type of modeling, a swimsuit model can find work on their own. But, especially in the field of swimwear and bikinis, having an agent helps. You want to have a modeling agent who knows the proper fee for a photo shoot or ad campaign, who understands if the job is legitimate and safe, and who can help make sure you get your money in a timely manner. Ashley Schmerling, owner of Meredith Models, says, “If you are not booking through a trusted agency, you must do your due diligence and research the photographer, creative or casting director, and client before accepting the booking. Unfortunately, this information is not always readily available.” A modeling agent can help ensure all of the above is up to snuff. 

Roberts further emphasizes why swimsuit and bikini models should have professional representation. “Swimwear modeling, which is by nature ‘sexy,’ can put models in a vulnerable position,” she says. “So always work with professional people who are vetted and trusted in this industry. Swimwear models need to be vigilant and do what they can to keep safe. This is why if you are new to the industry, it’s imperative to work with an agency, manager, or mother agent who has already vetted potential photographers and clients.”

To find a modeling agent, attend open calls and submit to agencies. Model coach Martez Saporta-Rothuysen believes that it’s helpful to draw up a list of modeling agencies that work with the companies you’ve researched and to simply “reach out to them.” Putting yourself out there and showing off your work never hurts!

7. Consider a move.

New York City, Los Angeles, and Miami have the most work for major swimsuit projects in the U.S. Newhoff says that each market has its own needs and specialities. Miami, for instance, “specializes in beautiful locations and special lighting,” she explains. “The swim market is a major force in what we book.” 

8. Land gigs.

If you live outside of these three cities, however, Schmerling assures that there is local work available. Those modeling jobs largely come through small businesses looking to locally promote their swimsuit line on their website. Check out our swimwear and lingerie modeling jobs database to connect with opportunities today!