A beginner model's guide to castings, digitals, confidence, body types, agencies, pricing & getting booked
If you are reading this, there is probably a part of you that already knows you are meant to be seen.
Maybe you have always loved fashion. Maybe people have told you that you should model. Maybe you have watched runway videos, saved poses on Pinterest, practiced your walk in your room, or looked at other models and thought — I want that to be me.
And honestly? It can be you.
"What separates a girl who wants to model from a model who actually gets opportunities is preparation."
A prepared model shows up with digitals. She knows her measurements. She understands her angles. She practices her walk. She knows how to take direction, and she puts herself in the rooms where opportunities happen.
That is what this guide is about. I created it because I know how confusing it can feel when you are first starting — and this is your starting point.
You do not have to be the most experienced girl in the room. You just have to be the girl who came prepared. And that alone will already set you apart.
The sitting pose: Editorial, grounded, and strong. This is the energy of a model who has done the work and knows it.
Shot by photographer @limitycontent — Mariana came prepared with her full shot list, poses planned, and outfit ready. This is what coming prepared looks like.
Before we talk about digitals, comp cards, castings, walking, or posing — we need to talk about your mindset. Because modeling requires confidence, yes, but it also requires discipline, patience, humility, and resilience.
"A model's mindset is not 'I already know everything.' A model's mindset is 'I am willing to become better.'"
Your personality matters. Your impression matters. The way you make people feel matters. A model who is kind, coachable, respectful, and prepared will always be more valuable than someone who thinks beauty is enough.
Being professional does not mean you need to be perfect. It means you are prepared, respectful, responsible, and easy to work with.
Have clear photos ready, know your measurements, have a short introduction, and be able to send your digitals or comp card when requested.
If someone corrects your walk or pose, do not take it personally. Adjust, try again, and show them you can adapt quickly.
Not getting selected does not mean you are not meant to model. It means that specific opportunity was not aligned with you at that moment.
Say thank you. Respect the team. Make the designer's job easier. Be the model people enjoy having around.
"A good reputation can get you called again. A bad attitude can make people never want to work with you — even if you are beautiful."
Before you start applying to castings or reaching out to brands, you need a few basic things ready. You do not need everything to be expensive or perfect, but you do need to look prepared.
Arrogance says, "I know everything." Confidence says, "I am ready to learn, and I know I belong in the room." That is the energy you want to walk in with every single time.
Digitals are one of the most important things you need as a beginner model. They are simple, natural photos that show your face, body, proportions, and overall look — not a full photoshoot. They show the real you.
Keep it simple and fitted. A black fitted tank top, black leggings or skinny jeans, minimal jewelry, and simple heels for full-body shots. The focus should be you, not the outfit.
Natural stance, shoulders relaxed, posture tall.
Clean profile showing your silhouette clearly.
Looking away, hair pulled back if possible.
Shows your upper body and face together.
Minimal makeup, natural lighting, no filter.
Chin slightly lifted, neck long, expression calm.
"Clean will always beat chaotic. The purpose of digitals is to show what you look like — not to prove that you can pose."
Designers work with sample sizes and custom garments. If you give incorrect measurements, it can create problems at fittings or on the day of the show. Know your measurements and keep them updated.
| Measurement | How to Take It | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Height | Without shoes — be honest | Casting & fit requirements |
| Bust | Around the fullest part, tape straight across back | Top & dress sizing |
| Waist | Smallest point above belly button — do not suck in | Skirt, trouser & dress sizing |
| Hips | Around fullest part of hips & glutes, tape level | Bottoms & dress sizing |
| Shoe Size | Your true size — include half sizes if between | Runway footwear fittings |
| Inseam | Inner thigh to ankle bone | Trouser & jumpsuit length |
A comp card is like your modeling business card. It gives designers, agencies, photographers, and casting directors a quick overview of who you are as a model. Keep it simple, clean, and easy to read.
Most of the time, especially in the beginning, you have to go find opportunities. You have to research, follow the right people, apply, show up, and put yourself in the room.
"Model casting [your city]"
"Fashion show casting near me"
"Model open call [city]"
"Brand ambassador casting"
"UGC model casting"
"Miami Swim Week casting"
"You may never feel 100% ready. Go anyway. Every casting gives you practice. Every rejection builds thicker skin. Every yes builds your confidence."
Your online application needs to be clear and professional. Make it easy for someone reviewing 200 applications to understand your look and contact you.
"Hi, my name is [Name]. I am a model based in [City]. I am interested in being considered for [opportunity name]. I have attached my digitals, measurements, and comp card for your review. Thank you for your time and consideration."
Online castings are posted across multiple platforms, and knowing where to look saves you hours of scrolling. Instagram is the most active place — follow casting directors, designers, and production companies directly and turn on post notifications so you see casting calls the moment they go up. Many opportunities are posted to Stories and disappear within 24 hours, so staying close to the right accounts matters.
Beyond Instagram, check platforms like Model Mayhem, Backstage, and Casting Networks for more structured submissions. Local Facebook groups for your city's fashion scene often have casting calls that never make it to Instagram. And do not sleep on TikTok — brands increasingly post UGC casting calls there because they are looking for people who feel natural on camera.
When you start applying to multiple opportunities at once, things can get confusing fast. Keep a simple notes document or spreadsheet tracking who you applied to, when, what you sent, and whether you heard back. This helps you follow up professionally and prevents you from accidentally messaging the same person twice. It also shows you your own patterns — which types of opportunities you hear back from most, which markets are responding to your look, and where to focus your energy next.
When you see a casting, apply within 48 hours. The earlier your submission arrives, the more likely it is to be seen before the casting director has made preliminary decisions. Late submissions are often glanced at quickly or skipped. Being fast is a form of professionalism.
Your preparation before a casting matters. The goal is to arrive calm, organized, and ready. A prepared model gives herself time.
Before you walk in, remind yourself: I do not need to be perfect. I need to be present. I need to listen. I need to show them who I am.
You are not going there to beg for approval. You are going there to present yourself. That energy matters.
When you arrive at a casting, your job is to be professional from the moment you walk in. People may be watching before you even officially start.
Be kind, say hello, smile, and be respectful to everyone — not just the important-looking people.
Stand tall, listen carefully, do what they ask, and if they correct you — adjust. Do not panic. Just reset and keep going.
"Walk slower." "Relax your shoulders." "More elegant." Take direction as a compliment — they are investing their feedback in you.
Say thank you. Leave respectfully, regardless of how it went. You showed up — that already counts.
A lot of models walk into a casting thinking the only thing being evaluated is their look. That is not entirely true. Yes, your appearance matters — but casting directors are also watching how you carry yourself when you think nobody is paying attention. They notice if you roll your eyes while waiting. They notice if you are kind to the other models or competitive and cold. They notice if you check your phone the entire time versus staying present and alert.
What they want to see is someone they can picture being easy to work with on a long shoot day, backstage at a chaotic show, or on set with a client who has high expectations. The model who gets called back is often not the most stunning girl in the room. She is the one who made the casting director feel calm and confident about putting her in front of a client.
It will happen. You will trip, forget which way to turn, go blank on your name for a second, or stumble through a walk that felt perfect at home. This does not end your chances. What matters is how you recover. Take a breath, reset your posture, smile slightly, and keep going. A model who handles imperfection with composure is actually more impressive than one who never makes a mistake — because it shows you can handle pressure. And modeling, especially runway, is full of pressure.
"The model who gets called back is not always the most stunning girl in the room. She is the one who made everyone feel calm just by being there."
If you have contact information for the casting director or designer, a brief, warm follow-up message 24–48 hours later is completely appropriate. Keep it simple: thank them for their time, express genuine interest in the opportunity, and leave it at that. Do not ask if you got it. Do not send multiple messages. One thoughtful follow-up is professional. Anything beyond that becomes pressure — and pressure is not a quality anyone wants in a model they are about to put in front of a client or audience.
Rejection is part of modeling. Please understand this early so it does not destroy your confidence later. You can be beautiful, talented, prepared, and still not get chosen.
"Not getting one opportunity does not mean you are not a model. It means you were not selected for that specific opportunity. That is it."
After every casting, ask yourself these questions instead of spiraling:
The girls who succeed are usually not the girls who never got rejected. They are the girls who kept going after rejection. Consistency is what separates dreamers from working models.
A strong runway walk is about posture, rhythm, confidence, control, and energy — not just moving from one side of the room to the other.
Stand tall, lengthen your neck, shoulders relaxed, core engaged. Imagine a string pulling you up from the top of your head.
Extend your legs, step with intention, do not rush or stomp. Walk the line with control — not chaotically.
Move naturally. Avoid stiff arms or excessive swinging. Different shows want different arm energy.
Clean and intentional. Pause, pose, turn, walk back. Give people a second to see the look — the pause matters.
Match the show's energy: fierce, soft, elegant, happy. Practice different expressions so you can adapt.
Heels on. Open space. Record yourself from front and side. Watch it back. Notice, fix, repeat.
"You cannot fix what you cannot see. Recording yourself might feel uncomfortable at first — it is one of the fastest ways to improve."
This is what showing up prepared looks like. Face calm, posture strong, presence commanding — even in between shots. The camera is always watching before you think it is.
Runway and editorial work. The look, the energy, and the attitude all match — that is what casting directors and designers are looking for.
Swimwear by @official1901collection
Effortless swimwear energy. Smile genuine, posture natural, confidence real. This is what happens when you practice enough that the camera stops feeling like a test.
Miami location shoot. Natural light, warm energy, authentic presence — no forced poses, no stiffness.
Swimwear by @official1901collection
Posing is not about copying every pose you see online. It is about understanding your body, your face, your angles, and the energy you want to give. A pose that looks amazing on one model might not look the same on you — and that is okay. You have to learn yourself.
Notice: Weight shifted, space created between arms and body, posture tall, expression strong. Every element of the pose is intentional.
This is what practicing in front of a mirror builds. You stop guessing what looks good and start knowing.
"The more comfortable you become in your body, the easier posing becomes. Movement often creates the most natural-looking images."
One of the biggest signs of a strong model is adaptability. You should not give the exact same walk, pose, face, and energy for every outfit.
| Look | Energy | Walk Style | Expression |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swimwear | Strong, fresh, confident | Fluid, relaxed, slightly playful | Warm, effortless |
| Gown | Graceful, expensive | Slow, smooth, controlled | Polished, serene |
| Bridal | Romantic, timeless | Controlled, beautiful, soft | Dreamy, soft |
| Casual | Effortless, relatable | Natural, confident, cool | Approachable, real |
| Edgy | Fierce, sharp, bold | Powerful, intentional | Serious, untouchable |
| Commercial | Warm, trustworthy | Natural, friendly | Big smile, expressive |
| Editorial | Creative, elevated | Artistic, dramatic | Storytelling stare |
A good model does not just look good. A good model understands the vision — and becomes it.
Strong. Confident. Owning the energy of the look. This is not just swimwear — it is a full character, a full energy, a full presence. The outfit demands boldness and the model delivers it.
When you understand the assignment, you stop modeling the clothes and start becoming the vision.
Outfit by @shedesignsu
If you want to improve, you need to practice consistently. Not just when you have a casting — but because you are becoming the version of yourself who is ready when the opportunity comes.
Put on heels several times a week. Practice slow, fast, elegant, and swimwear walks. Record yourself. Watch it back. Then practice again.
Use your phone timer. Try different outfits, lighting, and angles. Save pose inspiration but use it to discover what works for you.
Practice soft, fierce, happy, dreamy, serious, elegant, and playful without making it look forced.
You become confident by doing. The more you show up, the less intimidating it feels. Repetition is everything.
Personality on camera is something you build — not something you just have. A genuine smile, relaxed body language, and natural energy all come from repetition and comfort in your own skin.
Studio digitals taken for personal portfolio. Clean background, fitted outfit, natural lighting — exactly what Chapter 4 teaches you to do.
Modeling is not only about talent. It is about relationships. The more people you meet in the industry, the more opportunities you learn about. This does not mean using people — it means building genuine connections.
Designers & Brand Owners — Your primary booking sources for runway and campaigns.
Photographers — Build your portfolio through test shoots and collaborations.
Makeup Artists & Stylists — They often recommend models for bookings.
Other Models — Genuine friendships can lead to shared castings and referrals.
Show Producers — They cast for multiple shows and remember prepared models.
Casting Directors — Follow their pages and always leave a great impression.
"Your reputation travels faster than you think. Be good to people — backstage, in DMs, and in every room you walk into."
Reaching out to someone you have never met in the industry can feel intimidating, but it does not have to be. The key is to lead with genuine appreciation for their work before making any kind of ask. If you message a photographer and your first sentence is "can you shoot me for free," you will be ignored. If instead you comment thoughtfully on their work for a few weeks, then send a message saying you admire their style and would love to collaborate on a test shoot, that is a completely different conversation.
People in the fashion industry receive a lot of requests. The ones that get responses are specific, warm, and low-pressure. Make it easy for them to say yes by being clear about what you are offering, keeping it brief, and genuinely meaning it when you say you love their work.
In-person events are still one of the most powerful networking tools available to you. Fashion shows, industry mixers, designer pop-ups, beauty launches, and even casting days where you are not selected are all opportunities to meet people and be remembered. When you attend these events, do not spend the whole time on your phone or staying only with people you already know. Introduce yourself to one new person. Ask questions and actually listen. Exchange Instagram handles instead of business cards. And always follow up within 24 hours with a simple, warm message referencing something specific from your conversation — it shows you were actually paying attention.
Most meaningful industry relationships do not produce results immediately. You might meet a designer at a local show today who has nothing for you right now — but eight months later, when they are scaling their brand and need models for their biggest show yet, they will think of you first because you were kind, prepared, and memorable. Networking is not about what someone can do for you right now. It is about building a reputation worth remembering over time.
Your Instagram or TikTok helps people understand your look, personality, lifestyle, and modeling potential. You do not need thousands of followers — but your page should make sense.
Model | Miami
Runway · Swim · Commercial
Bookings: mariana@oceansocialagency.com
One of the biggest mistakes aspiring models make on social media is waiting until everything is perfect before they post. They wait until they have professional photos. They wait until they have more followers. They wait until they feel ready. And while they are waiting, they are invisible. You do not need a photographer or a ring light or a studio to start building your presence. A clean wall, good natural light, your casting outfit, and your phone camera is enough to start. What matters is showing up consistently and letting people watch you grow.
Post your walk practice. Post your casting outfit. Post what you learned at a fitting or a show. Post the behind-the-scenes moments that most people never see. That content is actually more engaging than a perfectly edited shoot — because it is real, and people connect with real. The models who build strong followings are not always the ones with the best photos. They are the ones who show up every week and give their audience a reason to keep watching.
If you are not on TikTok yet, this is your sign to start. TikTok has become one of the most powerful discovery platforms for models, especially in the commercial and UGC space. Brands are actively searching TikTok for models who feel natural and relatable on camera. Content ideas that perform well for models include walk tutorials, posing tips, getting-ready-for-a-casting videos, day-in-the-life content, and honest advice for beginner models. You do not need a large following for brands to find you — you need the right content with the right keywords in your captions and bio.
As your following grows, be intentional about what you share and who you engage with publicly. Avoid posting controversial opinions, engaging in public arguments, or sharing content in moments of frustration. The internet has a long memory, and casting directors and brands do look at your full profile — not just your most recent posts. Your social media is part of your professional brand whether you want it to be or not. Own that intentionally.
As exciting as modeling is, you need to protect yourself. Not every opportunity is legitimate. Not every person who says they can help you is trustworthy. Trust your instincts.
"Protecting yourself does not make you difficult. It makes you smart. A real professional will not be offended by you wanting clarity."
Stop waiting. Start preparing. Small, consistent actions will build your confidence and your foundation. You do not need to do everything in one day.
If you are reading this and thinking — "I want to do this, but I still need personal guidance" — I would love to help you. Sometimes you need someone to look at your digitals, your walk, your poses, your comp card, and tell you what is working and what needs to improve.
Personal analysis of your current walk, turns, posture, and energy with specific correction notes.
Review of your digitals, angles, facial expressions, and what your images say about you as a model.
Feedback on your comp card design, photo selection, and how to present your measurements professionally.
Your personal plan for finding and applying to the right opportunities in your market.
Review of your Instagram and how to optimize your presence as a model portfolio.
Work through mindset blocks, casting nerves, and how to walk into every room like you belong there.
One of the biggest misconceptions in modeling is that there is only one body type that works. That is simply not true. The industry has expanded significantly — and there are real, paying opportunities across every category. The key is knowing where your look fits best so you can target the right opportunities.
"Your job is not to fit every category. Your job is to own the categories where your look is strongest."
Typically taller frames (5'8"–6'0"), slender proportions, and striking or unconventional facial features. This category is known for being the most size-restrictive, but even within it, there is range. If you have this build, pursue editorial campaigns, lookbooks, and agencies with fashion divisions.
5'8" – 6'0" preferred for most runway
Fashion weeks, designer runway, editorial magazines, lookbooks
Slender, proportional, sample size 0–4
The largest and most accessible category. Brands, advertisements, catalogs, e-commerce, and campaigns want relatable, approachable people. Height is far less restrictive (5'4"–5'10" is typical), and size range is broad. If you photograph well and have a warm, trustworthy quality on camera — commercial modeling is where you can thrive.
5'4" – 5'10" typical
E-commerce, brand campaigns, TV commercials, social media ads
Any — relatability and personality are the priority
This category values a toned, healthy, confident physique. Height requirements are less strict than runway. This category is popular in warm-weather markets like Miami, LA, and Miami Swim Week. Body confidence and an ability to showcase shape and movement are key.
5'5" – 5'11" typical
Swim brands, activewear, fitness campaigns, beach shows
Toned, healthy, confident — range of sizes
Curve modeling has grown into a significant and paid segment of the industry. Sizes 12–22+ are typically represented. Brands want models who carry their size with confidence, move beautifully, and photograph well. This category now spans runway, editorial, e-commerce, and campaigns.
5'7" – 6'0" preferred for high fashion curve
Curve runway, e-commerce, campaign, editorial
Size 12–22+, proportional, confident
Petite modeling applies to models under 5'6". While major runway is less accessible, petite models find strong work in e-commerce, commercial campaigns, lifestyle shoots, and brands that specifically target petite consumers. Being petite is not a limitation — it is a niche.
Under 5'6"
Petite fashion brands, e-commerce, lifestyle campaigns
Any — proportional to height
Bridal modeling typically requires a sample size 4–8, height 5'7"–5'10", and an elegant, graceful demeanor. Showroom modeling involves modeling clothing for buyers in a private, professional setting — it is less glamorous but consistent and well-paying work for models who fit standard sample sizes.
If you have exceptional hands, feet, legs, lips, or other features — parts modeling is a real category. Nail campaigns, hand cream ads, shoe brands, and hosiery campaigns all cast parts models. Keep whatever is your standout feature well-maintained and photograph it well in your portfolio.
Once you know which categories match your look, you can be strategic — follow the right designers, target the right agencies, and apply to the castings that are most aligned with what you bring.
Do not waste energy trying to fit a category that is not built for your body type. Go where you are wanted — and show up more prepared than anyone else.
Signing with an agency is not the only path — but it can open doors to higher-paying, more consistent bookings. Here is everything you need to know about submitting the right way and spotting the difference between a legitimate agency and a scam.
Not necessarily — especially when starting. Many models build strong portfolios, income, and reputations through freelance and direct bookings. However, a reputable agency can provide a steady stream of castings, negotiate your rates, and give you access to brands and markets you could not reach alone. The goal should be agency-ready, not agency-dependent.
Subject: Model Submission — [Your Name] — [City]
Hi [Agency Name] Team,
My name is [Your Name]. I am a [age]-year-old model based in [City]. I am submitting for consideration and have attached my digitals and measurements below.
Height: 5'[X]" | Bust: [X]" | Waist: [X]" | Hips: [X]" | Shoe: [X]
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best,
[Name] | [Instagram] | [Email]
Beyond measurements, agencies are looking for a fresh face with commercial potential, a natural and approachable on-camera quality, strong bone structure and proportions, coachability (they want to develop you), and a professional attitude even as a beginner.
One of the most confusing parts of early modeling is understanding how — and how much — to charge. The fear of pricing yourself out of opportunities is real, but so is the cost of consistently working for free. Here is how to think about it.
"TFP has its place. But your time, your look, and your professionalism have value. Learning to price yourself is part of becoming a working model."
TFP means you and a photographer exchange services — you model, they provide edited images for your portfolio. This is common and genuinely useful at the beginning when you need portfolio images. However, TFP should be intentional. Every shoot should serve your growth. If a shoot does not add something new to your portfolio — in terms of look, style, or quality — it may be time to charge.
Rates vary widely by market, experience level, and the type of work. These ranges are general starting points for independent models. Research your local market, look at what models with similar experience charge, and adjust accordingly.
| Opportunity Type | Beginner Range | Mid-Level Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Fashion Show | $0–$150 | $150–$400+ | Many local shows pay in product/experience at first |
| E-Commerce / Product Shoot | $75–$200/hr | $200–$500/hr | Brands using images commercially should pay |
| UGC (User Generated Content) | $50–$150/video | $150–$500+/video | Fast-growing paid opportunity for all body types |
| Brand Campaigns | $200–$600/day | $600–$2,000+/day | Usage rights and exclusivity affect rate significantly |
| Swimwear / Showroom | $100–$300/day | $300–$800/day | Consistent work — great for building income |
| Editorial / Magazine | Often low or TFP | $0–$500/day | Valuable for portfolio despite lower pay |
| Social Media Sponsorship | $50–$300/post | $300–$2,000+/post | Varies heavily by following and engagement rate |
When asked "What's your rate?" — do not panic. If you are unsure, it is acceptable to ask what their budget is first. This tells you what they expect to spend and allows you to respond accordingly.
"Thank you so much for reaching out! Could you share the project details and budget you're working with? That will help me let you know if we're a good fit. I'm excited to potentially work with you."
Usage rights determine how, where, and for how long a brand can use your images. A photo used in a small local boutique's Instagram story is very different from an image used on a national billboard campaign for two years. When the scope is larger, your rate should reflect that. If a brand asks to use images beyond what was originally agreed, that is a licensing conversation — and it is absolutely appropriate to negotiate a higher fee.
I am prepared and ready.
I am allowed to be seen.
I do not need to be perfect to be powerful.
I can learn from every room I enter.
Rejection does not define me.
I bring something unique to this room.
I am confident, coachable, and ready.
Every casting is helping me become better.
I belong in rooms with opportunity.
Hi [Name], my name is [Your Name] and I'm a model based in [City]. I came across your work and really love your style. I would love to be considered for any future runway shows, campaigns, or modeling opportunities. I can send over my digitals, measurements, and comp card if needed. Thank you so much!
"Start where you are. Use what you have. Practice consistently. Stay professional. Stay kind. Stay ready. Because when the opportunity comes — you want to say: I'm ready."
The girls who win are not always the girls who had everything handed to them. Sometimes they are the girls who kept practicing when nobody was watching. The girls who went to castings even when they were nervous. The girls who learned from rejection instead of letting it break them. The girls who took themselves seriously before anyone else did.
That can be you.
Mariana Morejon
Model · Coach · Miami
Personal coaching designed to help you become the most prepared, confident, and professional model you can be. Choose the experience that fits where you are right now.
Book on Stan Store DM on InstagramA focused, personalized coaching session done virtually — perfect if you want expert eyes on your walk, posing, social media, or casting strategy from anywhere.
One hour of direct expertise and personalized feedback — so you know exactly what to fix — plus a written action plan delivered after our session.
Send me your photos and I will do the work. I review your images, select the strongest shots, build your full model portfolio, and design your comp card — ready to send to any casting or agency.
A professional comp card and curated portfolio you keep forever — the first thing every casting director and agency will ask for.
An immersive 60–90 minute in-person session where we do everything — runway, posing, mindset, and I take your digitals and build your comp card on the spot. You leave casting-ready.
The most complete experience I offer — you walk in a beginner and walk out with your walk, your digitals, your comp card, and your confidence. All in one session.
🚶♀️ Runway Walk Analysis
📸 Digitals & Comp Card Review
🎯 Casting Strategy Session
📱 Social Media Audit
💡 Posing & Angles Coaching
💬 Confidence & Mindset Work
🌸 Affirmations & Model Self
🗂️ Portfolio Build Service
💃 In-Person Full Experience
✨ Becoming Your Best Model Self