What's Your Type?
In the modeling industry, there are many different directions in which your career can go. In a previous blog post, I mentioned some benefits of identifying areas of interest within the modeling industry while getting started. Although I still recommend doing your own research, here is a general list of divisions that may be worth looking into.
Runway
Probably one of if not THE most well-known types of modeling. This is most likely the vision that comes to mind when the word “model” is used. Think high fashion designers, catwalks, and tremendous height. For this type of modeling, developing a “runway walk” is essential.
Editorial
This is what I would consider the sister of runway modeling; high fashion looks, but in a more concrete fashion, a photo. When I envision an editorial look, I think of “America’s Next Top Model”. These photos are geared toward fashion publications.
art modeling
While doing my own research on the industry, art modeling did not typically appear on any list. This is something I stumbled upon and is one that is worth mentioning. Simply put, art modeling is the act of posing for a painting, drawing, or similar art form. This is typically done in a live classroom setting (think figure drawing or portraits).
commercial
Everything from pharmaceutical companies to banks all need help advertising their businesses. This could look like working for a discount department store/hypermarket, a food and beverage company, or a cosmetic brand. To me, the term “commercial modeling” includes a wide range of jobs. I think more relatable advertisements usually with smiling and other playful or “real life” emotions. These bookings can be a combination of print/digital and video work.
e-commerce
When I say “e-commerce” I am specifically referring to the standard front, back, and side angle photos used to display products for online shoppers. The idea is to give the customer a solid understanding of how the product will perform in person. Think of it as the digital version of trying clothes on in the dressing room mirror; you turn from the front to the side and somehow catch a glimpse of your backside all to see how a piece of clothing fits. These photos are not typically used for marketing or advertising purposes but rather satisfy a pragmatic need.
unrecognizable / parts
Somewhat ironic, these photos consist of images that leave the identity of the model unseen. For example, the focus of these photos can be of just a hand, leg, or ear, making it nearly impossible to tell who the person is. The purpose is to bring emphasis to a product through targeted interactions; a jewelry company may just want closeup images of someone wearing a new ring or watch, while a cosmetic brand may need to showcase the texture or color of a product as it’s being applied.
promotional
Promotional modeling requires representing a brand at trade shows or other in-person events. This is where the line between acting and modeling starts to disappear as strong speaking skills tend to be important here; the goal is to build product desire through verbal, face-to-face encounters with potential customers. In addition to displaying goods, modeling is a lot of sales, and promotional modeling makes this evident.
brand ambassadors/influencers
Not dissimilar to promotional modeling, brand ambassadors are also required to show (and ultimately sell) a product. Technically, this is not a “traditional” modeling job, but with the rise of social media, I think it needs to be on the list. Many modeling agencies are catching onto the trend and now keep a roster of influencers displayed on their web pages. Although there are many individuals who do not have an agent (nor consider themselves “models”) doing this, there are also many models who do make additional income through brand deals.
fit modeling
When I first saw this name I thought it was short for “fitness”, but no. Fit modeling is when a designer hires a model to come try on pre-production pieces. This is helpful as it allows the designer to see how a garment looks, feels, and moves on a real person. Designers can also use the model’s measurements as a guide while creating samples.
fitness / swim
In the case of fitness modeling, some brands will actually require the model to be proficient in a specific sport. Looking the part not only makes for an accurate advertisement but also allows for in-action shots and poses. Swimwear is less focused on physical abilities, but I grouped them together because both categories generally promote a more active lifestyle.
I hope this post opens your mind to all the possibilities that exist within the modeling industry. No matter your height, weight, or interests, there is sure to be a job market for you.
Did you discover any other sectors not on this list? Comment below!
With love,