HOW TO GET SCOUTED ON INSTAGRAM

Instagram has not only become a powerful tool for personal promotion, but has evolved into a successful business tool for certain industries: one of which, is the modelling industry. Modelling agencies now use the social media platform to scout new talent with the hope of signing fresh faces to their label. So how do you get scouted on Instagram? Here are the most important tips and tricks to becoming a model in the social media age.

1. FREELANCE MODELING VS MODELING AGENCIES

What’s important to clarify is that being scouted as a model can mean one of two things: signing to a modelling agency, or becoming a freelance model for a brand. This article will be looking at being scouted on Instagram for a modelling agency, rather than a freelance model for a brand.

However, a popular method for the second type of scouting is to tag the clothing brands in your Instagram uploads. Tagging a brand or a person in your photos notifies them, and brings your image to their attention. If the brand likes your image and thinks it suits their Instagram aesthetic, they may use your image on their page.

2. #HASHTAGS

Beginning with the pound (#) symbol, a hashtag on social media is a link that connects messages from multiple users under the topic of a phrase or an idea. The tool was predominantly used on Instagram and Twitter, but is now used on most social media platforms.

Modeling agencies will use Instagram to scout potential models by searching an existing hashtag, so including them in your Instagram upload is important. Equally as important is knowing which hashtags to use. 

3. MAKE YOUR PROFILE PUBLIC AND PROFESSIONAL

For hashtags to work, modeling agencies have to be able to view and peruse your account. It is important your Instagram account is set to public, not private for this to happen.

Because your profile would be able to be seen by anyone and everyone, it is important to see the platform as a professional space. Continue to upload everyday pictures, but be mindful that language and content could be being seen by a potential employer – so cater for this.

Additionally, relevant personal information should then be available and put in your bio on Instagram. Your email and living location are important pieces of information for perspective modelling agencies to contact you.

4. CREATE CREATIVE CONTENT

Modeling agencies should be able to get an insight into your personality and image when on your Instagram, so uploading content that reflects who you are is important. Creating a niche for yourself and marketing yourself as something different to everyone else on Instagram is important when getting scouted on Instagram.

That being said, it is equally important to upload a variety of images to express your versatility. Photos that focus on your facial features, body shape and your ability to pose in different environments are all aspects that modelling agencies search for. Before you decide to make your Instagram a professional space, consider what tone and aesthetic you’d like your profile to follow.

5. AUTHENTICITY IS THE KEY

Modeling agencies are searching for natural talent, so editing your Instagram uploads with multiple filters or apps won’t appeal. Photos that highlight your natural beauty and uniqueness are more likely to be successful with modeling agency scouts than heavily edited images. Focus on images that show of your personality, body shape and facial features! Your Instagram should still reflect your life and you in different environments, so make sure to capture your day-to-day activities while remembering that potential employers could be looking through your feed.

Disclaimer: a fine line exists with uploading selfies. Selfies are a great way of highlighting your unique facial features and bone structure, however be a good judge of what’s appropriate and what’s not. Bathroom selfies are not constructive to your online modeling portfolio and getting scouted on Instagram.

6. UTILIZE DIRECT MESSAGES

A last option is to direct message the Instagram pages of modeling agencies. When direct messaging a modeling agency off Instagram, attach two small size images of you and a quick message. Always do your research and make sure you are contacting the authorised Instagram pages of the modeling agencies you’re interested in. Lastly, be patient. If you do not hear back, remain professional and pursue other agencies. You may not be exactly the look they’re after, but every agency is looking for different things.

Don’t give up!

5 QUESTIONS YOU SHOULD ASK A MODELING AGENCY

As a model, you should be interviewing the modeling agency as much as they are interviewing you as a prospective model. When you first meet with a modeling agency, they'll ask you all sorts of questions about why you want to be a model, the type of modeling you want, and why you chose their agency. These basic questions will help the agency get to know you and your personality so they can determine if you’re a good fit for their business.

However, just as they are sizing you up for a place in their firm, you need to be evaluating the agency to see if they will be the best fit for you. To secure yourself and your rights, it’s fundamental you do your research and make inquiries when searching for a respectable agency.

Here, I list down 5 questions that you should be asking a Modeling agency before signing with them.

1.HOW LONG HAS THE MODELING AGENCY BEEN IN BUSINESS ?

These days it is easy to start a modeling agency. While picking an agency, you might need to examine any agencies that have been doing business for under five years or are simply beginning.

2. WHO ARE SOME OF THE AGENCY’S CLIENTS ?

By realizing who a portion of the best clients of the agency are, it'll give you knowledge on the diverse sectors the agency covers and the nature of the agency. A few agencies may work for the most part with fashion models, while others can offer more work for runway or fitness models.

3. IS THE AGENCY ALSO A MODELING SCHOOL ?

Modeling agencies can appear to be alike, however they aren't. There are modeling agencies, modeling schools and joined modeling agencies and schools. You'll likely need to work with an agency that is only a modeling agency and not a modeling school, as well.

4. WHAT ARE YOUR COMMISSION RATES ?

Honest agencies profit off commission. The rate fluctuates, however by and large, agencies deduct 10% to 20% from what you get. At the end of the day, they just get paid when you get paid. The agency may likewise charge the model an extra 20% as an administration charge.

5. WHAT TYPE OF JOBS DO YOU BOOK FOR YOUR MODELS ?

It's helpful to know the breakdown of the kinds of modeling roles inside the modeling agency. Their answer will enable you to decide whether your modeling objectives synchronize with what the agency brings to the table.

Keep in mind that models are considered to be self-employed contractors rather than employees of the agency. This means that it’s perfectly normal for models to invest in their own start-up costs that have nothing to do with the agency, such as model scouting services, website profiles, comp cards, and photoshoots. It is also up to you to file your taxes and make quarterly estimated tax payments.

TOP FASHION BRANDS IN THE WORLD

As a Fashion photographer, it has become a routine for me, or rather a habit to keep a track of top Fashion brands and what’s trending in the Fashion Industry. In today’s age, there are a million blogs listing trillion brands as “ Top Fashion Brands “ where they just evaluate the brands based on it’s performance and quality analysis over a short period of time. I wish to serve to the Quality - shoppers, not price- shoppers. So considering you’re someone who would like to shop the way I do, I list Top Fashion Brands in the world right now, the brands that are making the “ Big Move “.

Before I share the top Fashion brands with you, there’s something to agree on :

The word “top” not only in fashion, is subjective. It is TOP according to what you like. The same applies to hot, popular, high-end, luxurious and so on. In the past Top fashion brands were measured based on their market value. However, I believe a more objective ranking of top fashion brands needs more than the number of products sold. In this article I combine both the metrics and put forward only the BEST.

10. Armani

Why I Love it : Especially for Armani Beauty; elegant and refined, Armani Beauty is all about adding luxurious touches to create timeless looks and enhance your natural beauty.

The Italian fashion house designs, manufacture, distribute, and retails haute couture, ready-to-wear, leather goods, shoes, watches, jewelry, accessories, eyewear, cosmetics, and home interiors.

The brand markets these products under several labels: Giorgio Armani Privé, Giorgio Armani, Armani Collezioni, Emporio Armani (including EA7), Armani Jeans, Armani Junior, and Armani Exchange.

9. Hermès

Why I Love it : Unique fashion, beauty, and accessories from the country of haute-couture.

The French fashion house specializes in leather goods, lifestyle accessories, home furnishings, perfumery, jewelry, watches, and ready-to-wear.

Fact : In 2018, a matte white Niloticus Crocodile Himalaya Birkin became the most expensive handbag ever sold when it was auctioned for nearly $250.000 at Christie’s.

8. Balmain

Why I Love it : Beauty is in the Details

Balmain is adored in Asia right now, thanks to Rousteing’s genius vision and fruitful collaborations.

Balmain is a French luxury fashion house founded by Pierre Balmain in 1945.

It currently operates 16 mono-brand stores, including locations in New York City, London, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Miami, and in Milan’s Via Montenapoleone.

7. Givenchy

Why I Love it: While a big percent of Givenchy is owned by LVMH, the company has maintained its stylistic independence. With a powerful online presence, this brand makes dream luxury couture right from the heart of France.

Chop Givenchy if you are looking for a brand that delivers artistic magnums.

6. Bottega Veneta

Why I Love it : This Italian fashion house is the hidden star of the fashion world. While the team has embarked late on the online advertisement world and digital commerce landscape, once it did the company boomed from a brand for ‘family, friends, and connoisseurs, into the most coveted luxury business from Europe.

Fact : Bottega Veneta Unveiled a 100% biodegradable boot in the Fall/Winter ‘20 collection.

5. Versace

Why I Love it : From all Italian companies of this top fashion brand rank, Versace is the only one to take a cut from its revenues to donate to good causes for a positive impact. Versace is loved by customers in particular for their belts, cotton scarves, and loungewear designed for absolute comfort in mind.

Also, who doesn’t love the Versace Logo ? The brand’s logo is the head of Medusa, a Greek mythological figure. Gianni Versace, the founder, chose Medusa as the logo because she made people fall in love with her, and they had no way back.

4. Saint Laurent

Why I Love it : Saint Laurent kept true to its identity of absolute modernity and fashion authority.

Yves Saint Laurent, more recently known as ‘Saint Laurent’, is a French luxury fashion house founded by Yves Saint Laurent and his partner, Pierre Bergé.

Founded in 1961, Yves Saint Laurent was the first couture house to introduce, in 1966, the concept of luxury prêt-à-porter with a collection called “Saint Laurent Rive Gauche”, synonymous with youth and freedom.

3. Prada

Why I Love it : Prada is now one of the world’s most iconic fashion houses. I absolutely love Simon’s input of fresh styles and cuts that brought the brand back to the public attention.

More recently Prada has begun to combine the distinctive elements of its know-how with principles inspired by the enhancement of people, the protection of the environment, the respect of ethical values, and the promotion of culture, believing that in this way it can pursue inclusive economic development.

2. Gucci

Why I Love it : Unique prints and embroidery (even on sneakers) make the brand stand out from a mile.

From ‘Horse-bit’ loafers and ‘Dionysus’ bags to exquisite hand-finished dresses, these collections include some of fashion’s most sought-after pieces. Also, Gucci is the highest-selling Italian fashion brand in the world.

1. Balenciaga

Why I Love Balenciaga : Balenciaga’s pieces were, are, and will always be out of this world. More recently, Balenciaga’s stunning cuts have re-defined the idea of athletic minimalism and oversized apparel in high fashion.

Fact : Christian Dior referred to Balenciaga as a couturier of uncompromising standards and “the master of us all.”

Balenciaga flooded the runway for apocalyptic Fall/Winter ‘20 Paris Fashion Week show.

MODELING PORTFOLIO + COMP CARDS

If you want to become a model, you’ve got to learn how to make a modeling portfolio and create a comp card. From all my experience being a portrait photographer, I got you covered with all you need to know! 

How Modeling Portfolio Books and Comp Cards Work :

A model portfolio book showcases your talent and range as a model by displaying a variety of styles and looks within your genre.

A model composite card—or, as they are usually known, comp card—shows your best, most recent shots, alongside your measurements and modeling info (height, eye color, any special skills, etc.). You will need one full body shot, one from the waist up, and a close up of your face, as well as both profiles with your hair up or held back.

Here’s a quick example

Already signed with a modeling agency ?

Your modeling agency will help you build a model portfolio book before they start sending you out on castings. The costs of the photoshoots and photo printing is usually arranged by the agency and covered with the assumption that you are an investment that will pay off for them. When you start booking real paid modeling jobs, a chunk of your pay goes towards your agency debts. You should never sign with an agency that asks you for money upfront!

Determine What Type of Shoots Suit Your Look

There are many different types of models; what makes a model successful is knowing their strengths and capitalizing on them. You should be realistic about what type of modeling sub-industry you fit into, and focus on building a model portfolio book that resembles jobs you are best suited for.

If you have cheekbones and facial features to die for—but you’re curvier or shorter than the average runway model—you’re probably more likely suited for booking make-up brand campaigns or swimwear/lingerie, as opposed to high-fashion runway shows.

Alternatively, If you’re 5’11”, lean as a gazelle, and can stomp a catwalk with flair, then high-fashion runway shows could be your calling. Other modeling genres include commercial modelling, plus-size modelling, swimsuit/lingerie, fitness, and glamour.

Work

As long as you photograph well and know how to work the camera, you could make it as a model! Now, let’s move on to actually producing those all-important comp cards.

Nail your digitals

Your digitals, or digis, as they are often referred to by models, are the most important part of your model portfolio book, and the building blocks of your composite card. Your comp card will feature a four-photo collage of your digitals, with your height, measurements, and contact info/representation printed at the bottom. These images are meant to showcase the most real, fresh-faced version of yourself—what you’d look like when you walk into a room for a go-see, i.e. a casting session.

Collaborate with photographers.

Now that you have your digitals, you can start using them to link up with photographers to build your model portfolio book. You can always hire a professional photographer, but, if you’re on a budget, try to arrange a TFP shoot. This is where you produce a shoot with a photographer, free of charge; you both get paid in the resulting shots. These are a great way to start filling up your model portfolio book! Here are a few tips:

Find a photographer whose work you like. You can use multiple resources to find photographers: DM them on Instagram, reach out to film/photography students.

Send them your digitals and tell them what you have in mind for a shoot. Ask them what’s on their wish list—a new photographer starting out might be dying to shoot some editorial looks but hadn’t had the perfect subject yet. Try a new style, even if it’s out of your comfort zone! Something as simple as a wig or some glittery eye-makeup may produce a killer shot, or even reveal an aptitude for another genre of modeling.

Get your professional model book ready.

Your modeling portfolio book, commonly referred to as just your book, is what you’ll bring with you to castings—it should have a variety of professionally printed photos of your best work, highlighting your range as a model and how well you photograph.

Here are some tips on how to create your modeling portfolio book: Industry standard is 9x12 inches—anything a bit larger is still acceptable, but not as compact and convenient for your bag. 

It must be black with no spiral or rings, with plastic sleeves for your photos. This makes it easy to flip through, and gives it the professional look you’re after. You can always upgrade your book to a fancier leather-bound hardcover down the road.Curate your images carefully. Start your book with your composite card.

Ask a photographer friend—or even just a pal with a good eye and elevated taste level—to vote on their favorite shots, and put the popular votes first in your book. You want casting directors and designers to see your best work first. Often, you can’t guarantee that they’ll flip through 20 pages, so don’t bother trying to save the best for last.

Assemble your Model portfolio website.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when putting together your model portfolio website: Don’t forget to include the necessary details, like your measurements (height, bust, waist, hips, and shoe size).

Link to your social media—in this day and age, social media plays a huge part in leveraging a model’s career. Your Instagram is essentially your third portfolio! Make sure to choose an online portfolio with Instagram integration so your feed is streamed right onto your site! Organize your shoots by type.

Share, share, share! There’s little use in having an online portfolio if you don’t share it and generate traffic. Link it to your Instagram. Network with fellow creatives on Reddit and other social platforms. You can even have little business cards made up; they’re great to give to photographers and other creatives you meet when you’re out and about—you never know what connection you can make.

The catwalk awaits—good luck!

HOW TO BECOME A MODEL : A BEGINNER'S GUIDE

Thinking about a career in modeling?

Do the glossy pages of Vogue make you weak in the knees? Do you stomp every sidewalk like it’s a Milan catwalk? Do you have “the look”? If you answered yes, then you just might want to be a model.

The world of modeling has something for everyone. There are so many niches and specializations that you can find at least one that fits your look and personality. Once you decide becoming a model is the right move, it’s time to choose which path you’ll take to get there. There’s a lot more to modeling than being really, really, ridiculously good looking.

Let’s get physical

The first thing every aspiring model needs to know is what their best features are and how to flaunt them. Inspect your face, free of makeup and with your hair pulled back. Gone are the days when the industry demanded strict symmetry and Eurocentric features. What is interesting about your face? Do you have full lips? Sleepy eyes? A gap in your teeth? Any of these can be advantageous when it comes to being remembered by casting agents.

Make faces in the mirror. Practice over-the-top emoting, laughing on cue, and bending your body into interesting positions while still looking natural and comfortable. Get comfortable in heels or other shoes you don’t normally wear. You may be asked to run, jump, and even skip in heels. Learn how to move fluidly, with small movements between shutter clicks instead of completely different poses from snap to snap. Think of each session as if you are trying to create a stop-motion flip book. Your photographer will thank you.

Build your modeling portfolio

Once you know your angles and your poses, it’s time to hire a photographer. In order to get your face out there, you’ll need more than a few selfies and party pics snapped on your iPhone. You’ll need to build a modeling portfolio. Portfolio standards have evolved a lot over recent years and you want to make sure your portfolio is professional and polished.

There are two types of portfolios you’ll need to curate. The first is a traditional, hard copy portfolio. This is like your resume. You’ll bring this with you to all in-person casting calls. It’s should feature your best 8 to 12 images, and be presented in a portfolio case with a brief catalogue of your modeling experience.

The second is your online portfolio. This is where you can really show the breadth of your experience and versatility. Building a strong portfolio shows casting agents just what you bring to the table and what you can do for them. It should be ever-evolving as you gain more experience.

Make love to the camera

Get started on your modeling portfolio with a captivating headshot. Headshots can be just head and shoulders or from the waist up. Your headshot should show you in your “natural” state. Simple makeup, minimal jewelry, and minimally styled hair. If you have facial hair, it should be well groomed. In other words, leave the winged liner, statement jewelry, and teasing comb at home. Smiling or serious, your headshot should put your best face forward and the be the first image in your portfolio.

Next, you’ll need a full body shot. These are usually very simple, wardrobe-wise. You’ll need a fitted white shirt or tank top and a pair of dark wash skinny jeans or a tailored trouser. Long skirts or jackets or too many layers just cover up what the casting agents are looking for. Ladies, break out those heels and gents, a casual dress shoe will do the trick. Keep it simple and classic—you can get creative in other photos.

Include tear sheets

Lastly, you’ll want to include any tearsheets you have. A tearsheet is a page torn out of a publication where you’ve been featured. For your digital portfolio, linking to the publication will suffice. If you are going to include tearsheets in your physical portfolio, be sure that they have cleanly cut edges and are in protective plastic sheets. It will leave a bad impression if your pages look tattered.

Bulk it up

Bulk up your portfolio with more images. Photographers are expensive and worth every penny, but not everyone has that kind of financial freedom to pay every time you want to boost your portfolio. Find photographers who are just getting started and arrange some TFP (Trade for Print) sessions. The same goes for stylists, hair and makeup artists, and designers. Most—if not all—creatives need portfolios, and therefore often need models. This is also a great opportunity to try things out of your comfort zone and grow as a model, as well as a way to keep your portfolio fresh.

Get signed

If you want to be a model, like in any industry, you’ll want to have someone in your corner who can help guide your career. That’s where agents come in. They can help you refine your book, set up go-sees, and help direct your career.

Agencies are now casting a much wider net to find talent via social media. Inviting Instagram users to add a hashtag to their posts allows recruiters to view thousands of potential models without ever leaving their office.

You can also skip the middleman and approach agencies directly. Do your research and find agencies are in your area. Look for ones that align with your desired career path, then simply email them your website and a quick, attention-grabbing cover letter.

A word of warning: if an agency is demanding hundreds or thousands of dollars up front, keep looking. That’s not the agency for you.

What the heck is a go-see?

Casting calls, or go-sees, are interviews for models. They’re either open to the public or arranged by agencies. You’ll need to bring your call card (or comp card) with your clothing size, shoe size, measurements, and contact information listed and stand (or walk, if it’s a runway job) for the casting agents. Go-sees are usually hectic and they rarely run on time. Bring a book to pass the time and a pen and notepad for taking down important information. Be professional and polite—a bad attitude can get you blacklisted faster than a bad skin day.

Do the HUSTLE !

While you work towards being the world’s next supermodel, this is a great time to advocate for yourself and make yourself your number one client. Use Instagram to your advantage. Create a professional account and keep it that way:

No food pictures. Casting agents don’t care about your dinner. Unless you’re holding or posing with them, keep your pets on your personal account.

Harass your friends to take your picture so your feed isn’t all selfies. Pay attention to trending hashtags and use them properly.

Blog. A lot of influencers and models we all know and love started as vloggers, bloggers, and Instagram personalities. Blogging creates valuable content for your digital portfolio and allows you to work on smaller passion projects that may not be right for your portfolio.