Freelance Modeling is the Ultimate Side Hustle: How to get Started
Freelance Modeling is popular for Influencers, here’s how to become one.
Modeling is not something that you have to do it full-time. In fact, freelance modeling has become all the rage for part time models. With upcoming influencers on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, becoming a model is much easier than it once was. In the early days of modeling, like in the 1970’s and 1980’s, your only real shot at getting signed by a modeling agency was to get spotted out and about by a model scout. Nowadays most major modeling agencies scout talent on social media platforms, rather then open casting calls at talent agencies.
Modeling is the ultimate side hustle, here’s how to make money as a freelance model
There’s a major difference between modeling as a hobby and modeling as a full blown career. Very rarely will you ever find anyone that is a full-time model. Nowadays, most people that come to markets like New York City or Miami to become a model will typically have a regular part-time job that’s very flexible and provides them with a secure paycheck, while taking upon gigs as a freelance model such as modeling online and acting to pay the bills.
The most important thing to get started as a model, without the help of a talent service like Latitude Talent Studios, or the backing of a major model agency, is to build a platform and gain followers. Ensure you engage your followers with fresh content to keep them engaged.
Remember, it is very important to build your own personal brand whether that be in fashion, entertainment, fitness or any other content that may gain interest of others. Once you start building your own brand, it’s easy to reach out to smaller companies and express your interest in working with them. Finding casting calls is another way to get started as a freelance model, BuildCasting.com is a great site if you are not in a market like NYC or LA and you want to see what is out there.
Often times many new and upcoming models will start as ambassadors to a brand. While this may not get you paid, it may get you exposure to a larger client. To gain experience, as well as make money, it’s important to reach out to local brands that have a focus on your specific demographic. If you’re a talent that often showcases athletic gear on your social media, it may not hurt to reach out to brands like Adidas or Footlocker (yes, really hit them up!) to see if they have any open casting calls or any other opportunities that you may able to do. Freelance models can earn as much as $5,000+ for a casting project, with standard photoshoots for brands paying as much as $1,000 or more.
Exposure is key for freelancers
Building a brand is one thing, however getting exposure in the right place is another. Before reaching out to those big agencies, it’s important to get experience and build up your modeling portfolio. Photography studios like The Studio Miami helps South Florida talent build up their book and are used to present to casting calls as well as modeling agencies. They are also used to create content on social media to start freelancing.
If you are looking to become a model, start by applying here to see if you have what it takes.
