Plus-Size Modeling Female &  Male

What is a plus-size model?

A plus-size model is a professional who takes part in photographs or artwork to help companies advertise their shops, products or services. Plus-size models generally include women or men who wear clothing in a U.S. size 12 or higher.

What do plus-size models do?

If you have a plus-size model career, you can work in a variety of places. Plus-size models might be photographed inside studios, on a runway or on-location such as outdoors. Their photographs can appear in or on:

• Magazines

• Websites

• Catalogs

• Digital ads

• Billboards

• Social media posts

• Product labels or boxes

Some plus-size models work for major modeling agencies, while others prefer to work at smaller agencies. Plus-size models can also choose if they would rather work for a modeling agency open to all types of models or with an agency that specializes in plus-size models.

How to become a plus-size model

Here are some steps you can follow when pursuing a career as a plus-size model:

1. Receive coaching or take related classes

Plus-size modeling requires no degree or certification. However, some aspiring plus-size models benefit from model coaching sessions. Modeling coaches are typically professionals who have already worked or currently work in the modeling industry, whether as agents, scouts, assistants or models themselves. A modeling coach can help plus-size models learn about topics such as the modeling industry, techniques for being photographed and casting call preparations.

Some individuals take classes or workshops to learn how to become a plus-size model. Modeling schools teach similar topics as modeling coaches, but they often do so in a group environment rather than one-on-one. Models might also decide to take classes or workshops in related fields such as acting, public speaking or makeup artistry.

Related: How To Become a Model

2. Take quality photographs

Modeling agencies require that applicants submit photographs. Quality photographs of yourself help agents and scouts evaluate your potential as a plus-size model. While it is unnecessary to pay a professional photographer, quality photographs can better show your modeling potential. Consider these factors when posing for and taking your photographs:

• Wear simple clothing and minimal makeup. When deciding whether to sign you on as a client, modeling agents are most interested in how you look naturally. Keep the colors of your clothing muted and free of bold patterns.

• Consider your lighting. Try to use as much natural lighting in your photographs as possible. Be aware of positions that allow for the most flattering light possible.

• Take both headshots and full body photos. Before taking full body pictures, practice your poses in the mirror to determine your most flattering angles. For the headshots, ask a friend to take your photo, as it is easier for another person to align the camera lens at your eye level.

Read more: How To Take Your Own Headshot

3. Get the attention of a modeling agency

The most common and easy way to become a model is to get a contract with a modeling agency. Modeling agencies help their models find modeling jobs best suited for both the model’s and that company’s wants. If you want to sign a contract with a modeling agency, there are several ways to get the agency’s attention:

• Attend open calls at modeling agencies. Subscribe to an agency’s email list or social media, or search local ads, to find out when modeling open calls happen. Research what you might need to bring with you, such as photo identification or certain types of outfits.

• Send photographs to agents. Many modeling agencies accept applications online, whether through email or a digital portal. Potential employers may also sometimes ask you to send photographs through postal mail services.

• Work with an online model scouting service. Modeling scouts already have connections with modeling agencies and can put aspiring plus-size models directly in touch with them.

• Attend relevant events. Try to go to events well-attended by models, modeling agents and other people in the field. Look for fashion shows, fashion & beauty conferences, fashion & photography expositions and other related events in your local area.

Make sure before signing any contract or sending money that the modeling agency is reputable. Legitimate agencies only receive payment from you after they have helped you book modeling jobs.

Related: How To Write a Talent Agency Cover Letter (With an Example)

Plus-size model skills

People interested in how to become plus-size models should consider developing the following skills:

• Confidence: Models should be confident with both their bodies and their personalities. A model’s confidence can be seen in photographs through physical gestures such as a straightened spine or raised chin.

• Charisma: Whether being photographed, networking, or talking about an upcoming project with their agent, most models project grace and charm. They try to be courteous and poised when interacting with others.

• Resiliency: Many models receive rejections and criticism. Learning to cope with negative feedback and rejections helps drive you to continue pursuing new opportunities.

• Communication skills: It’s helpful for models to be comfortable clearly stating their needs to the people they work with. Models should also be open to feedback from photographers, agents and others in the field.

• Physical health: Like all models, plus-size models pay attention to their health. It’s a good idea for aspiring plus-size models to develop healthy and sustainable fitness, nutrition, grooming and sleep habits.

• Organization: Most models have to balance a variety of projects and jobs simultaneously. People interested in becoming plus-size models might want to work on their organizational abilities, including time management.

• Concentration: Models have to hold poses or try a variety of different poses for a long time. Models need to keep their focus at all times to help photographers take high-quality images.