A Guide for Aspiring Models
As an aspiring model, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to sign with a modeling agency or to pursue a career as a freelance model.
Both paths have their own unique advantages and challenges, so it’s essential to understand which option aligns best with your goals, lifestyle, and personality.
This breakdown is here to Brisbane models but applies equally to Asutralian models and international models.
I hope this helps you make the right choice for your modeling career.
The Case for Freelance Modeling
1. Flexibility and Independence
As a freelance model, you have the freedom to choose your own projects, set your own schedule, and work with a variety of clients and photographers.
This flexibility allows you to explore different styles and genres of modeling without being tied down to a specific agency’s vision.
You have full control over your career, which means you can take on work that excites you and fits your personal brand.
2. Higher Earnings Potential
When you work independently, you avoid the commission fees that agencies typically take from your earnings—often 10-20% or more.
This means that you can potentially earn more per job, especially if you’re good at negotiating rates.
Additionally, you can directly negotiate contracts with clients, giving you the opportunity to maximise your income.
3. Diverse Opportunities
Freelancers aren’t restricted by exclusivity agreements, which means you can work with multiple agencies, brands, and clients at once.
This broadens your exposure in the industry and increases your chances of landing diverse and exciting gigs.
You’ll have the opportunity to build a varied portfolio that showcases your versatility as a model.
4. Creative Freedom
Freelance modeling allows you to carve out a unique identity in the industry.
You’re free to pursue projects that align with your personal style and interests, whether that’s high fashion, commercial work, or artistic shoots.
This freedom can be particularly rewarding if you have a strong creative vision for your career.
The Case for Signing with an Agency
1. Industry Connections and High-Profile Clients
Modeling agencies have established relationships with major clients, brands, and designers, which can open doors to high-profile work that might be difficult to access as a freelancer.
Agencies often have insider knowledge of casting calls and job opportunities, giving you a competitive edge in the industry.
2. Professional Guidance and Support
Agencies provide more than just job opportunities; they offer career guidance, coaching, and support.
From helping you build a portfolio to advising you on contracts and negotiations, an agency can be an invaluable resource as you navigate the modeling world.
They can also provide legal and financial advice, ensuring that you’re protected in your contracts and making smart decisions for your career.
3. Stability and Security
While freelancing offers flexibility, it can also be unpredictable.
Agencies can provide a more stable stream of work, as they actively seek out opportunities for their models.
This can be particularly beneficial for those who are new to the industry and still building their network.
4. Branding and Promotion
Agencies invest in their models by promoting them to clients and helping them build their personal brand.
This can include arranging test shoots, providing professional photoshoots for your portfolio, and marketing you to potential clients.
Having an agency backing you can enhance your credibility and help you establish a strong reputation in the industry.
Considering Brisbane Agencies?
If you decide that signing with an agency is the right path for you, Brisbane has several reputable modeling agencies that could be a great fit. Here are a few to consider:
- Chic Management Brisbane: Known for their high-end fashion clients and strong connections in the industry.
- Vivien’s Model Management: One of the most established agencies in Australia, with a focus on developing long-term careers.
- Wink Models: Founded by entrepreneur Taryn Williams, Wink Models represents over 400 models and actors across Australia, offering diverse talent for fashion, editorial, TV commercials, runway, and more, while passionately delivering the highest calibre of talent to elevate brands.
- Icon Management: A well-respected agency with a reputation for nurturing new talent.
Whether you choose to go freelance or sign with an agency, the most important thing is to stay true to yourself and your goals.
Each path has its own rewards, and with dedication and hard work, you can find success in the modeling industry.
Expanding Your Online Presence
Apart from the obvious social media accounts like Instagram, Facebook and TikTok, the are numerous online model/photographer collaboration websites available that are worth using.
These include, ModelManagement, Kavyar and ModelMayhem.
As always, be careful what you share on these platforms. Validate contacts before you meet them and always have a chaperone attend photoshoots with you!
Which would I Suggest?
Good question.
If you are a people person extrovert who is not afraid to put yourself out there, you might do well as a Brisbane freelance model.
Your modelling is your business – so you need to be able to network, market, price yourself, manage your hours and make a profit.
If all of that seems above you – especially if you are new to modelling – then finding a model agency to represent you is probably the best way to start as an aspiring model.
Remember there are lots of people out there that want to help. There are an equal number of people out there that want to help themselves instead of you. Can you tell the differnce between them?
Either way, it makes sence to make contacts in this industry and open channels of communication. It’s a great industry to be a part of – but no one said it would be easy!
Break a leg and I hope you become famous!
Matt Cornell
Matthew Cornell Photography