How to Become a Model
Upfront Model Anna Cahill. Photo Credit: Barry Murphy
For many, the idea of modelling is a very mysterious and unattainable prospect. It seems like that kind of lifestyle belongs only to the Bella Hadid’s or the Naomi Campbell’s of this world.
At Upfront, we want to unpack the mystery and reveal what it is like to be in the modelling industry in Ireland. But more than that, to answer our most asked question… How do you become a model?
How do I start modelling?
With stories of being scouted at the supermarket and myths of model discoveries in the depths of social media, we’re here to quash the rumours.
So how do you get discovered as a model?
Castings
The main way in which we get models on our books is through castings. At Upfront, we try to hold as many castings as we can throughout the year.
However, there are cases where our ‘books are full’ so to speak and we can’t facilitate any newcomers. This is to ensure that all of our models are highly trained and are given the opportunity to gain experience in the industry in a way which is sustainable and encouraging.
We will announce any formal castings on our social media… So keep your eyes peeled!
Scouting
The rumours (well some of them at least) are true.
Our agency owner has been known to spot talent on shoots, in cafes or even on beaches. So if you see her sneaking up behind you, don’t be alarmed - this could be your moment!
Application
At Upfront, we are constantly inundated with requests and applications from aspiring and professional models for representation. As an established agency, we are delighted to be of interest for so many wonderful and talented individuals starting their careers.
Our team processes every request that comes into our inbox, but unfortunately can’t accept every application.
What are the requirements for becoming a model?
Do models have to be super slim? Do female models have to be 5’9? Can I be a male model if I’m not 6’0?
In the traditional modelling world (or the one we see in the movies), there are a lot of expectations and restrictions about ‘who can be a model?’ As a more commercially focussed agency, we have evolved and instead, we are committed to ‘relatability’ and authenticity with the talent in our books.
Height
Female models from the 90s (and still today) are commonly seen as gazelles, strutting their stuff on a catwalk near you.
If you are considering runway modelling, height is a more important factor for designers and retailers alike. At Upfront, we are very open about these considerations when putting our talent forth for optioning or castings in a runway environment.
However, height is less of an important factor when it comes to editorial or commercial modelling. If you look through our books, we have models of varying heights (both male and female).
Size
Do models have to be size 8? Do I need to lose weight to be a model?
At Upfront, we will never advocate for any of these notions around size. We encourage all our models to practise healthy habits that suit them, with an array of body shapes and sizes in our books.
On shoots, it is our Upfront team with the spreads of sandwiches, chocolate and bananas - handing them out to make sure everyone keeps their energy levels up if there are long hours or adverse weather conditions!
Thick Skin
Whilst people focus heavily on height and size when it comes to modelling, one of the most important things to consider is thick skin.
A model’s life is varied, exciting and full of opportunities - but it also heavily relies on being able to face constant rejection. Not getting booked for jobs is simply part of the job and all models need to be fiercely independent and self-confident in order to take that in their stride.
In our Upfront family, we do everything we can to ensure our talent always feel supported by the agency. However, modelling can often feel like a solo endeavour and is not a good choice if you struggle with self-confidence or critique.
Upfront Requirements
At Upfront, we don’t care much for convention. As a ‘family’ agency, we have a defined set of criteria for the models on our books which are unlike your traditional stringent set-up.
For us, it’s all about the 4 P’s.
You must be photogenic, professional, punctual and ultimately, a perfectionist. These qualities are the ones we value when looking for talent to represent - for us, it will never be simply about the ‘looks’.
Can you do modelling as a career?
Upfront Model Fiona Griffin. Photo Credit Lynda Kenny, Visual Feasts
Modelling can be a full time career.
However, the majority of people in our books consider modelling as a part-time job or pastime. Although many of our talents are booked and busy every week, there is no way to guarantee work or income in this industry as it is solely based on demand.
What You Need to Know About Being a Model
Due to the varied environments that we constantly work in, it can be hard to describe an ‘average day in the life’ of someone in this industry.
However, if you are considering becoming a model in Ireland, we wanted to give you some insight into the working life of a model at Upfront…
Casting & Optioning
Models frequently have to attend a casting for the client to be considered for a job.
Usually, our team will suggest some models to be ‘optioned’ based on the clients requirements. This essentially means that they have been shortlisted for the job but are not guaranteed to book it.
If you do book the job, the agency will handle the brief, the rate and location - which will then be communicated to the model prior to the job.
Prep before the job
Once you receive the brief, it is essential to show up to set prepared.
This does not need to constitute a whole beauty routine prior to the job, but models should show up with clean skin, nails and hair. If there are any particular requirements, these will be communicated to the model beforehand.
As a rule at Upfront, we don’t allow fake tan as this transfers to the clothes and can damage our designers' and retailers wonderful creations.
Call time
If you don’t like early starts, then the modelling life may not be for you!
Our models are well accustomed to early starts and long days, with call times varying from job to job.
Typically on a commercial shoot, the call time is approx 90 mins before the shoot to accommodate hair and makeup. However, for a runway show, where fittings and rehearsals are required, the call time is approx 4 hours pre-show time.
Kit bag
What is in a model’s kit bag?
Although we would love to do a ‘What’s in My Bag?’ which is reminiscent of 2015 YouTube… we can only give you a small insight into the Mary Poppins bag which our models are expected to bring on set.
Model kit bags include basic essentials for a shoot or show, which include seamless nude underwear, selection of shoes, socks, make-up, hair brush, toothbrush, deodorant, makeup wipes and more.
The stylist on the shoot will provide the other elements for the wardrobe but it is always helpful to bring a few additional props which you feel are suitable.
The Job
In all of our jobs, we advocate for professionalism at all times.
Models should always treat the client and all team members with respect. The clothes on the shoot should also be treated with the utmost care. Even in the most stressful of situations, our talent is trained not to throw clothes on the floor or misplace valuable items.
Modelling is a very fun industry, with the opportunity to work with talented creatives always a very exciting experience. At Upfront, we always want our talent to have fun and make the most of their bookings in a way which speaks to the ethos of our agency.
If this sounds like the kind of career you are interested in, and you feel like you would be a good fit for the agency, you can contact us here.
For all emails, please include ‘Model Application’ & your name in the title to make it easier for our team to find you! All applications should also include a full-length and a head and shoulders image of yourself taken in good light with no filters.
Photo Credit Grid: 1. and 2. Barry Murphy. 3. Gill Carney