What is Commercial Modeling? – Key Differences

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(Newswire.net — October 25, 2019) — What is commercial modeling? Commercial modeling is a niche in modeling that spans across a broad area. Catalogs, magazines and advertisements (both television and print) all fall under commercial modeling. Unlike fashion modeling, which often has very strict height, weight, size and age requirements, commercial modeling has embraced diversity to include fitness, petite, plus size and body part modeling.

What is Commercial Modeling?

This article outlines what commercial modeling entails and what it offers for aspiring models. It also features what it takes to be a commercial model and a few tips.

Do Commercial Models Need Special Training?

There are rarely any strict requirements to be a commercial model. While commercial models don’t have to attend modeling classes, it’s highly recommended that they have some basic training and acting skills before attending casting calls and knowing what to bring to one. Attending a couple of workshops and acting classes that focus on how to work on a set and auditioning skills can give one a good foundation.

What’s the Earning Potential for Commercial Models?

The income earned by commercial models varies depending on the type of job, the model’s experience level and the market in which the model or client is based. Another critical factor that determines how much a commercial model earns is how the client intends to use the film or images in which the model is appearing. For example, is the ad appearing globally, nationally or locally? International ads net more income. The length of time the client wishes to use the photos also matters. For instance, images that will appear for just a few days or months will net less income than videos or photos that will appear indefinitely.

Earnings are usually based more on the usage the client wants. There are also buyout fees (giving the client full right to the images in perpetuity) which can range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.

What You Need to Become a Commercial Model

Working as a commercial model will usually require that you have an agency representing you. Starting out, therefore, requires you to send some basic photographs to established scouts and modeling agents who can evaluate your look and determine if you will be the right fit for the market when you’re attending auditions.

It’s advisable to invest in commercial headshots and photo shoots until you have a better understanding of how the commercial market work and what clients and agencies are looking for.

Unlike fashion modeling, where models are initially evaluated solely on their physical attributes, commercial modeling requires you to put a little more effort into your photos, even if they’re just casual snapshots. You want to showcase your true potential by letting your unique personality shine through your photos.

Bottom Line

Now that you’re able to answer the question: what is commercial modeling? it’s important to note that though it’s often overlooked by aspiring models, commercial modeling is much easier to get into than fashion modeling and often more lucrative. Although it may not be as glamorous as fashion modeling, it is diverse and has plenty of room for growth.