Whether you have held a lifelong ambition to become a model or are simply looking for ways to boost your income, this diverse and exciting industry could offer just the opportunity you are looking for.
If you want to know how to become a model in the UK and get paid work, then our guide should tell you everything you need to know to help get you started:

• What kind of model are you?

Depending on your age, height and body shape there are a number of modelling categories to suit a range of model looks.

High fashion – for tall, slim male and female models aged 14-25 years.
Commercial – open to all, though you will need to be fit and healthy and have good clear skin, hair and teeth.
Plus size – for curvaceous women who are over 5ft 7” in height.
Glamour – for sexy women with curvaceous figures, there are no height or weight requirements.
Mature – for fit and healthy men and women over the age of 35. Height and weight restrictions may apply depending on the criteria for individual castings.

• What are your work options?

Lots of models sign with agencies who help them find casting opportunities and secure work, however there are also an increasing number of models who prefer to take control of their own careers by working freelance. Either way, models are usually self-employed and will be responsible for managing their own financial responsibilities such as tax and national insurance.

Depending on the kind of model you hope to be, you could find yourself with enough regular bookings to maintain modelling as a full time career though you should bear in mind that a career in fashion modelling in particular could be quite short lived. Fashions change quickly and whilst you might have the hot look for one year, you could find that you are replaced by a new face the next.

If financial stability is important to you then you might prefer to find a regular job and take on part time modelling assignments to supplement your main income.

• How to find work?

Modelling agencies make their money by taking a commission from your earnings so, whilst there are no guarantees, it is in their interest to find you as much work as possible. If you work on a freelance basis then your best chance of success is to register with a number of reputable model casting websites. You could also create your own website and market yourself to photographers, magazines and brands you would like to work with.

Whichever route you take, you will need to invest in a professional portfolio to showcase your look and personality. UK Models can help you create a set of quality photographs and offer advice on how to find and approach agents and casting directors.

To maximise your model potential, be reliable and always demonstrate professionalism. If you are easy to work with then you will have the edge when it comes to developing and maintaining a successful modelling career.