10 Steps to Become an Instagram Model and Get Paid
Instagram modeling is becoming more lucrative each year. This unconventional modeling path is new but ripe with opportunities. In fact, you could make thousands of dollars by posting fashion-forward pictures of yourself to your social media account. Still, you need good looks and a unique sense of style to make it as an Instagram model. If you think you have what it takes to be an Instagram model, we’ll go over some tips and tricks that will help you get paid as an online model, here!
Top Ten Steps for Becoming an Instagram Model and Getting Paid:
1. Figure Out Your Modeling Style
Instagram modeling is all about style. You could post random pictures of yourself in an assortment of styles. But, this is less likely to grow your online following. Really, you want to define your fashion sense and choose specific types of clothes and brands that match your image. For instance, maybe you are into high-fashion, or perhaps you like more underground clothes. Try to figure out what works best for you. This type of planning will help you cement your online presence. It also helps brands find you for future collaborations.
2. Create an Instagram Account
Once you have your wardrobe together and have an idea of what you want to do as an Instagram model, it is time to create your Instagram account. This is the easiest step in the process. Simply sign up for Instagram so you can get started. You can create a catchy username, and set a stylish profile picture to get started. Also, create an interesting caption to add to your account.
3. Prepare Your Body and Mind
You could begin posting pictures right away, but we recommend doing some prep work beforehand. Start by looking at yourself in the mirror. Get a feel for how you look and decide if any improvements can be made. Maybe your face is a little dry and it needs a facial treatment. Maybe your hair has split ends and needs to be trimmed. Even as an Instagram model, you need to look well put together and clean. The restrictions for online modeling are not as tough as agency modeling, but there is still a standard. So make sure you look great before you start posting photos. And get your head in the right space, so that you are making the most of your time and energy!
4. Hit the Gym and Eat Well
Again, your body is an important part of your modeling career. Instagram models need to take care of themselves, as well. You not only want to have nice looking hair, nails, and skin, but you want to stay fit. Instagram models can have curves and even be plus-sized. Still, this does not mean that you can’t hit the gym and try and eat more healthily. Working out not only makes you look more youthful and healthy, but it can also make you feel more energetic. With more energy, you can put more work into your modeling career and make more money!
5. Start Posting Photos
You’re going to want to create some posts for your account so you can start gaining followers. As an online model, you will need to hire a professional photographer and create a portfolio. But you can snap a few classy pictures as you plan out your next steps. We suggest taking natural shots with good lighting. A few nice selfies or candid shots can help build up your profile and get people interested in your modeling career.
6. Hire a Photographer and Take Photos
Unfortunately, you won’t have an agency or an agent to create a modeling portfolio for you. So, you need to make one yourself. The posts you make to your account can help you gain traction, as well. Still, you need to create a professional portfolio for yourself with a seasoned photographer. You can post your portfolio to your Instagram account. In addition, we recommend taking plenty of headshots and body shots in a few different styles. Around ten images should be posted to your account. You can also add in your selfies to mix things up and make your account look more diverse.
7. Gain an Online Following
The best way to make money as an Instagram model is by gaining an online following. The more followers you have, the more likely it is that brands and companies will want to collaborate with you and pay you money. There are a few ways to gain followers. You can strategically post at certain times and use popular hashtags to get noticed. You can also follow a ton of people online and like their posts. Liking or following a random account can help generate interest in your profile and can lead to a follow back. You can eventually unfollow accounts later on when you gain a bigger audience.
8. Connect With Other Instagram Influencers
Another way to gain online recognition is by collaborating with other Instagram influencers. You can try and connect with other Instagram models for clout. But, you don’t have to limit yourself to online models. Try to collaborate with any accounts that are larger than yours. This will help you gain followers. Use direct messaging and make sure that any collaboration is beneficial for both of you. For instance, if you want to collaborate with a photographer, offer to model for them if they feature you on their page.
9. Put in the Work
Instagram modeling looks like fun, but it involves a lot of hard work. You need to post regularly and actively engage with your followers to keep your social media numbers rising. It can take time, but if you put in the work you will see results and make money.
10. Have a Good Attitude
Lastly, always have a good attitude. It’s easy to be cynical and upset when you don’t gain followers right away. However, if you keep a positive attitude and keep moving towards your dreams you can become a profitable Instagram model!