Where to Look for Models
1. Instagram: One of the most popular social media platforms for photographers would be Instagram. It’s an excellent place to start a model search because it’s also popular with industry people and other creatives. The images on your account should be a good representation of your professional work, demonstrating that you are a serious photographer. That’s all great, but how do you search for a model on Instagram?
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Many models are already active on Instagram, making it easy for you to find ones nearby and see the type of work they do, their style, etc.
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Do a hashtag search within your genre and region to look for models. (For example: #professionalweddingmodelsNYC, #professionalmodeldetroit.)
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Be sure to include the location tag.
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We recommend searching for both professional and amateur models, particularly if you’re on a tight budget.
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Look for quality images. You might have to pour through many photos before you get to professional-looking ones.
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You’ll want to follow the ones of interest to you by the images on their account.
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Before reaching out to someone, browse their account to establish that they work in your geographical area.
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Reach out to a model by sending a direct message (DM). (More on this in a later section.) You’ll want to introduce yourself, include your website and Instagram account, which help to prove that you’re a serious photographer and not a BOT or someone with bad intentions.
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You must explain clearly what you want and your vision for the shoot; after all, they don’t know you.
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You should also schedule an interview call or virtual call.
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If the model has an agent representing them, you might want to start by reaching out to them instead of the model. You’re more likely to get a response.
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Another way to identify local models is to identify local photographers and see which models they’re working with locally.
2. Other Social Media: Instagram isn’t the only way to find a model on social media. There are photography forums, such as VSCO, Flickr, and Reddit, and Facebook Groups to network with other photographers. You’ll not only learn a lot on these and other forums, but you have the opportunity to ask for advice on finding models. These forums and groups are invaluable, especially as a beginner photographer.
3. Actors: Actors can also be great models (and vice versa, of course), so they’re another place to look for models. Actors usually have a confident presence about them and are generally very comfortable being photographed professionally. They’re also used to professional hair and make-up. Another advantage of working with actors is that they’ll likely have a website or public portfolio you can browse to find the right fit for your project. Here are some tips for finding actors:
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Look at your local theater or playhouse for actors who might be interested in earning some extra money modeling.
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Look at the local theater, dance, and drama schools.
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You can also reach out to producers, directors, and instructors who work with local actors to ask for recommendations.
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You can reach out by email or a phone call, or both. Email first and follow up with a call. Always be sure to include as much information as you can about yourself to establish your credibility.
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If you have any friends or acquaintances connected to a theater or performing arts school or center, ask if they’d facilitate an introduction.
4. Use your Network: Another way of finding models is to use your network of friends, acquaintances, and colleagues. You never know who they might know. You can also ask friends! They might be willing to serve as a model. This is a handy idea when you’re first starting out and on a tight budget.
Working with a willing friend as your model allows you to relax, focus on your photography, and is a great way to practice! Remember, anyone can serve as a model. You’re looking for a subject to photograph, not necessarily America’s Next Top Model!
5. Modeling Agencies: Another option is to turn to a professional modeling agency. While there are (typically) various fee levels, working through an agency adds a “middleman.”
Thus, they’ll have their own fees they charge. You’re likely to pay more than if you worked directly with a model outside of an agency. On the plus side, if you want someone else to find and vet a model for you, an agency is the way to go. To find a modeling agency:
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You can do an online search through a portal such as Google or Yahoo. If you decide to go this way, be sure to vet the agency carefully and check their reviews by other photographers.
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Ask other professional photographers for recommendations. What agencies have they worked with that they would recommend?
