How to Become a Model: Tips for Aspiring Models & Parents

Introduction 

I'm Elisabeth Roselli, a 20+ year working model and Founder of BECOMEAMODEL™. So, you want to become a model? Maybe you’ve dreamed about seeing yourself in ads, walking in fashion shows, or booking campaigns for major brands. Whether you’re a teen, adult, or a parent hoping to guide your child into modeling, the industry has changed—and today, opportunities are more accessible than ever. With the right strategy, anyone can build a modeling career without waiting to be “discovered.”

Why Aspiring Models Struggle 

Most aspiring models face the same roadblocks:

• No clear roadmap on how to get started.

• Falling for scams disguised as modeling “schools” or “photo packages.”

• Relying too much on being “found” instead of learning how to submit and book work.

• Not knowing what kind of modeling (commercial, lifestyle, child modeling, fitness, fashion, etc.) is the best fit.

What’s Changed in Modeling Today 

The modeling industry is no longer controlled only by a handful of elite agencies. Thanks to independent casting platforms, online submissions, and social media, aspiring models can take charge of their careers. Parents looking to get their child into modeling can also directly connect with legit agencies or use self-submission platforms to book jobs.

Steps to Becoming a Model 

Here’s what every aspiring model should focus on:

1. Know Your Type – Are you right for commercial, fashion, fitness, curve, or child modeling? Understanding this saves you time and rejection.

2. Build the Right Portfolio – You don’t need expensive photos. Start with digitals/polaroids and add professional shots as you grow.

3. Use Trusted Platforms – Casting platforms like Backstage, Casting Networks, and others give you direct access to auditions and modeling jobs.

4. Submit to Agencies the Right Way – Many legit modeling agencies accept online submissions. Parents looking for child modeling agencies should apply early—especially for infant and baby modeling, where the demand is high but the window of time is short.

5. Treat It Like a Career – Stay consistent, track submissions, and learn how to market yourself (or your child) like a pro.

Introduction 

Modeling can feel mysterious and overwhelming when you’re just starting out. Whether you’re an aspiring model dreaming of your first booking or a parent interested in getting your child into modeling, it’s hard to know where to begin. The truth? You don’t need to “know someone” or have the “perfect look” to succeed—you just need the right steps, strategy, and understanding of today’s modeling industry.

Here’s what every aspiring model and parent should know about launching and navigating a modeling career.

1. Start with the Right Photos

You don’t need expensive photoshoots to get started. For aspiring models and kids alike, agencies and casting platforms prefer natural, well-lit images that clearly show your look. Simple photos at home—smiling, natural expressions, and clean backgrounds—work best when you’re starting out.

Pro Tip: Parents, keep your child’s photos up-to-date. For babies especially, this is critical, since infants grow and change so quickly.

2. Know the Types of Modeling

Not everyone will walk runways in Paris, but that doesn’t mean modeling isn’t for you. Commercial modeling—ads for lifestyle brands, hotels, clothing, beauty, and everyday products—offers opportunities for kids, teens, adults, and families.

Aspiring models should explore what fits them best: commercial, fashion, print, fitness, plus-size, or family modeling. Parents should focus on commercial modeling opportunities for their children since it’s the most in-demand category for kids.

3. The Infant & Baby Modeling Window

For parents of infants, there’s a short but high-demand window of time where brands actively seek babies for campaigns. This period moves fast—your baby is growing and changing every month, and opportunities can disappear just as quickly.

Tip for Parents: If you’re considering baby modeling, start early, keep updated photos, and be ready to respond quickly when castings come up.

4. Independent Modeling Platforms

Today, you don’t need to wait for an agency to call. Self-submission platforms allow aspiring models and parents to apply directly to real castings for brands, commercials, and campaigns. Independent modeling gives you more control and flexibility over your career.

Examples: Casting platforms like Backstage, Casting Networks, and local platforms in your region. These allow both new and experienced models to book work without relying only on agencies.

5. Avoid the Scams

One of the biggest concerns for aspiring models and parents is avoiding scams. If someone asks you for thousands of dollars up front for photos or representation, it’s likely a red flag. Real agencies and platforms make money when you book jobs—not before.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re an aspiring model starting your journey or a parent helping your child break into modeling, the path to success comes down to the right strategy, persistence, and understanding of how the industry actually works.

You don’t need luck—you need a roadmap.

Elisabeth Roselli — 20+ year model and Founder of BECOMEAMODEL™