The idea of trying your hand at modelling might sound pretty exciting; you’ll get to travel and meet people, and your face could even end up representing your very favourite brands. And it’s a job!

Some of the world’s best models began their career before they turned 15, so you’re looking at exactly the right time. But it isn’t all fun and games and there are a lot of things to consider before signing up with any teenage modelling agencies. It can all be a bit daunting and overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect.

Modelling Is For Everyone

Being a successful model is not about being ‘attractive’. We represent people from all walks of life because there is a market for all sorts of models. Every client has specific criteria to fill when they run casting calls, so make sure your profile is an accurate representation of you. There is no need at all to try and be someone you aren’t because you will just end up wasting your time going to castings you aren’t right for.

Being able to convey expressions when prompted, and follow direction is more important than appearance in most of the time.

Join More Than One Agency

The more teenage modelling agencies who sign you up, the more likely you are to get modelling jobs. Remember you can turn down anything you don’t feel comfortable with, and speak with the agency before you join so you know exactly what will be expected of you. No legitimate modelling or talent agency will ever guarantee you work because the decision is ultimately down to the client.

Some agencies ask to represent you exclusively, so check the fine print to make sure you don’t accidently break any terms.

Keep Your Profile Up To Date

Your online profile is how you are presenting yourself to potential clients via teenage modelling agencies, so you’ll need to keep it up to date. Add photos from recent shoots and include any skills you have.We recently found work for eleven of our models who could speak a second language, so any details which make you stand out can be worth including.

Time For Prints

If you haven’t got much in terms of a portfolio you could do some ‘time for prints’ photo shoots.  TFP modelling involves working with a photographer in exchanges for copies of photos taken. You’ll be able to add to your portfolio, and get some practise being directed and working in front of a camera. There is less pressure because you’re not trying to get a job or working for an advertising campaign.

The photographer will get practise working with a model and giving direction, and they’ll be able to sell the prints if they want to, so the process is mutually beneficial.

Speak to them before and make sure it’s okay for you to bring a someone with you – if it isn’t, don’t even consider meeting them.

It Is A Job, After All

You will be expected to be professional if you pick up any modelling jobs, but no one will expect you to know exactly what to do. Whether it’s a photo shoot or there is filming involved, you’ll be given plenty of guidance. As long as you’re polite and hardworking, you’ll find you get along fine in the modelling world.

You’ll learn quite quickly what photographers and directors are asking for, and the more experience you get the more confident you’ll become.

Speak To Your Parents

As a teenager you will need to have parental permission to sign up with any reputable talent or teenage modelling agencies, so make sure you talk through the process with mum and dad. You might find some agencies online that don’t check whether you have permission, but it is a legal requirement of working.

Have a look at our become a model pages for ideas of the different sorts of modelling available to you.