In this digital age you may have seen or heard the term net model being used. This most often refers to models who work freelance and source all of their work, or a significant amount of it, through the internet.

What kind of opportunities does the internet offer for models?

Starting a Model Website

One of the quickest ways to try and get your career off the ground as a freelance model is to create your own website. You don’t have to spend thousands on a fancy design, a simple website featuring a selection of your latest photographs, your measurements and your contact details should be enough to enable potential clients to see if you are right for their job. You can link your website to your social media accounts too for immediate networking.

Casting Websites

There are an increasing number of model casting websites popping up online. They operate in a similar way to standard recruitment websites, offering models access to a list of available modelling jobs you can submit yourself for. Take time to research the most reputable sites and talk to other models if you can to find out which ones offer the best opportunities.

Pros & Cons

Pros

You will have complete control over your career
Get started quickly and easily
Don’t pay commission to an agent
Set your own rates of pay or negotiate with clients
You won’t have to meet agency criteria so could find work whatever your shape or size

Cons

You will have to do the legwork to market yourself and find work
Pay up front for any website design and/or casting website fees
Handle all casting enquiries and negotiate rates of pay yourself
You will need to handle all of your financial obligations and chase clients for payment
Reassure yourself that your client is legitimate

A Word About Safety.

It is crucial that you put your personal safety ahead of anything else when working for yourself. Sadly, there are people ready to take advantage of inexperienced models so wise up if you plan to handle your career online.

• Keep private information private.

Do not post personal information on your website such as your home address or phone number. Use an email address and/or mobile number that is specifically for business.

• Always check a client’s credentials.

Make sure any business address and contact numbers your client provides check out.

• Ask for references and follow them up.

Which models and photographers has your client worked with before? Find out then give them a call to confirm.

• Agree payment terms up front.

Insist on a secure method of payment such as PayPal and suggest the client pays half of your fee at the time of booking, and the rest when the job is complete.

• Don’t go it alone

When meeting with new clients, never go somewhere secluded such as private address or hotel suite. Take a chaperone and if something doesn’t seem quite right, walk away.

Industry experts UK Models can offer advice on building a career in freelance modelling and will help you create the professional portfolio you will need to get started.