Five Practical Steps to Start a Commercial Modeling Career Today

By Elisabeth Roselli—Founder of BECOMEAMODEL™ & 20-Year Commercial Model 

The commercial modeling industry is more open than ever before—but also more competitive.

When I started over 20 years ago, the path to becoming a model was linear: find an agent, go to in-person castings, and hope to get booked.

Now, models can launch their careers with or without an agent, thanks to self-submit platforms, social media, and direct-to-brand opportunities. But to succeed, you need to start smart.

Here are five practical steps to break in and start booking jobs in today’s commercial modeling market.

1. Define Your Look and Niche

The days of a “one-size-fits-all” model look are over.

Brands now cast models of every size, age, ethnicity, and ability. That’s great news—but it also means you need clarity on your lane.

Popular Commercial Niches: 

• Lifestyle (family, everyday life, relatable moments)

• Fitness & Wellness

• Corporate & Business

• Curve/Plus Size

• Mature/Senior Models

• Teens & Kids

• Real People / Specialty Casting

Tip: Your niche is where your natural look and personality meet a market need. Knowing it makes it easier to pitch yourself effectively.

2. Create Strong Digitals

Before an agent or brand considers you, they’ll want fresh, unedited digitals showing your real appearance.

How to Take Them: 

• Wear fitted basics (tank + jeans)

• Shoot in natural light

• Include full length, ¾ length, and close-up shots

• No filters or heavy makeup

These photos are the foundation of every submission you make.

3. Build a Starter Portfolio

You don’t need a $2,000 photoshoot to get started. A starter portfolio can include:

• Your best digitals

• A few test shots with different outfits and expressions

• Any real work you’ve done (even unpaid)

Over time, replace early shots with professional campaign images as you book more jobs.

4. Submit to Both Agencies and Casting Platforms

If you’re just starting out, apply everywhere reputable:

• Local & national commercial modeling agencies

• Trusted casting websites like Casting Networks, Backstage, and Brand-specific platforms

• Social media casting calls from legitimate sources

Tip: Real agencies never charge upfront fees—they earn a commission from your bookings.

5. Use Social Media as Your Business Card

Instagram and TikTok aren’t just for influencers—they’re scouting tools for brands and agencies.

• Keep your feed professional and cohesive

• Post quality content 2–3 times a week

• Use relevant hashtags (#CommercialModel, #LifestyleModel, #ModelCasting)

• Engage with casting directors and agencies

Final Thoughts

The opportunity in commercial modeling today is huge—but so is the competition.

If you take these five steps seriously, you’ll set yourself up for real, paid bookings in months, not years.

Want the full roadmap? 

Join me inside BECOMEAMODEL™ to access my complete step-by-step system for breaking into commercial modeling the smart way.