How to Get into Model and Fashion Photography

It can be difficult to break into the photography business, let alone the model and fashion sector.  But everyone has to start somewhere to become a model and if there is anything you need to remember when trying to get into this line of work is create a network and have your niche.  Know what you are good at.  You might be great with kids and have a penchant for photographing child models.  You may even find that to your surprise, you are better at close up shots for hand models or foot models.  But no matter where you find your photography niche remember that there is a very high chance that you’ll be turned down a lot before you get a big break.  This is not unlike other areas of the photography industry, but it is especially true to become a model in modelling and fashion photography.  Read on to find out some tips and tricks to help you become a breakout star in the model and fashion photography industry.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Whether you have an extensive portfolio or not, make sure you practice your craft.  You don’t even have to practice with professional models!  Just simply gather a few friends who are willing to become a model for you so you can hone your skills.  If your friends like your practice shots they may even share them on social media giving you more exposure. 

Even if you practice a lot and have some pretty good shots for your portfolio you’ll likely do shots for free in the beginning.  In these instances just remember to focus on getting in good work that will help you down the road with paid gigs.  Be professional and hopefully some of these pro Bono shoots will lead to recommendations from clients.

Work With Real Models

Once you feel that you have honed your craft with friends it is time to start working with real models and/ or designers.  One way you can do this is to sign up with a social networking site for models, photographers, make up artists, fashion designers, and agencies.  There are a few out there and all you need to do is find one that is the right fit for you and the work you want to do.  By joining such a site you’ll be able to see the profiles of everyone in your area as well as easily communicate and share your work.  Be on the look out for casting calls you can apply for and make sure to share only your best work in order to become a model! 

Be aware that on the social networking site there will be different skill levels, but don’t let it deter you.  In fact, it might be a good idea to partner with others that are new to the industry both photographers and models.  Also note that some models will charge you to photograph them and some may even be willing to strike up a trade so that both you and the model benefits from a shoot.  Find models you would like to work with and it is likely that they’ll find you as well.  Build a network of people from various areas of the industry.

If you want to break into fashion photography as well try reaching out to locally owned boutiques or apparel stores.  They may have custom clothing or merchandise from small suppliers  that might not have promotional photography.  This is a great way to break into the business.  You can start small and build up your portfolio and eventually work up to larger clients.

 Be Accessible

Once you have built up a portfolio with real models and designers people will eventually come to you as your past clients make recommendations.  Just make sure that it is easy for people to get in contact with you.  Choose a few social networking or online sites that you can manage and makes you the most accessible to the clientele.  And it is always a good idea to have a website where people can find your contact information and see some of your work as well.

Never Stop

This might seem daunting, but it really isn’t.  Just make sure you continually practice your craft and to build your portfolio.  Keep photographing because a stagnant portfolio won’t attract new clients, so make sure you keep building upon your previous work.  From here you have a number of options for work.  You can decide to be a freelancer and essentially run a business or submit a portfolio to agencies, designers, studios, or publications for consideration as their employee.  Either way you decide to go make sure that it is the right fit for how you want to work.

With a little hard work and perseverance you can become a successful model and fashion photographer!