There’s no doubt that modeling is a highly coveted career but it takes more than good looks to succeed. For many, that means hustling and finding your own work for a while before securing an agent or manager. Luckily, Backstage has tons of modeling opportunities for unrepresented talent!
But before you start submitting to these gigs, make sure you know what materials you’ll need, how to stand out in a crowded field, and how to find the casting notices that will lead to the jobs that will then land you an agent to do all of this for you.
Make sure your Backstage profile is up-to-date.
Without representation, you’ll be the one in charge of finding and submitting yourself for jobs. The most important step in this process? Having a current, regularly-updated Backstage profile. Not only will this allow you to quickly and easily apply for gigs, but it will also make you findable when casting directors and industry professionals browse Backstage for models.
To better your chances of standing out, make sure your headshots are recent—meaning they reflect your current age and look—and professionally done. (Backstage can even help you find a headshot photographer.) Ensure your work history is up-to-date (and honest!) and relevant media is uploaded properly. And be reachable! Contact information that’s current and an e-mail address you check regularly are musts.
Determine the type of modeling you want to do.
There are several different kinds of modeling; honing in on the specifics will help you focus your energy and resources. If a live audience isn’t for you, skip the runway and try commercial and print modeling. From hand and foot modeling, to modeling for fitness and lingerie brands, the options are endless.
Learn the industry.
Modeling comes with a unique set of industry terms and rules you’ll want to know. Without an agent to translate, it’s your job to understand what casting professionals need from you. Studying the lingo can help you land that big gig.
Use Backstage to apply for jobs.
Backstage is the best resource for finding modeling gigs and auditions when you don’t have an agent submitting on your behalf. For 60 years, Backstage has been the most trusted source and top casting platform for talent and modeling jobs, so let us help kick-start your career, land your next (or first!) job, and get discovered.
You don’t need an agent to find what you’re looking for. Just sort the modeling casting notices by age, gender, location, and more, and see what Backstage has to offer. Check out our subscription options to start applying to modeling notices now!
Ready to see your face on a billboard? Check out our modeling notices!
