What You Need to Start
You don’t need a huge wardrobe, long runway experience, or fancy makeup. Here’s what really matters:
Natural confidence (not perfection) — being comfortable in your skin goes a long way.
A starter portfolio — 3‑5 clean images that show you clearly.
Polaroids/digitals — simple headshot + full body, no filters.
A supportive team or parent (if underage) to help with permissions, scheduling and logistics.
Quick checklist for your first shoot and why it matters
Simple outfit (plain tee, jeans) = Lets agencies see your shape and look without distraction
Minimal makeup & natural hair = Keeps focus on you, not the styling
Plain background or simple location = Prevents image from being over‑complicated
Good posture + relaxed attitude = Models that seem too tense often get overlooked
What Agencies Look For
Agencies aren’t just hiring “models,” they’re hiring people with potential to book jobs. Here’s what they check:
Personality and potential over long experience.
Clear digitals + a variety of looks (casual, studio, outdoor).
Directional poses and body awareness.
At least one creative editorial image to show you can perform.
Tips to show you’re ready
Practice basic posing in a mirror — arms relaxed, spine straight, chin forward.
Experiment with expression: serious, smiling, subtle. Agencies want versatility.
Keep your digital images recent (within 6 months) and high resolution.
Ask your photographer for “agency‑ready” styling: neutral tones, no heavy branding on clothing.
See my latest guide to Brisbane’s top agencies
Where to Shoot Your First Portfolio
Brisbane:
Studio sessions for clean, controllable looks.
Street fashion mix in areas like James Street / Newstead for urban edge.
Byron Bay:
Natural light locations like Tallow Beach or Broken Head for editorials.
Coastal stretches or greenery for soft, lifestyle‑model imagery.
Choose a photographer who offers direction, not just “take some photos and upload them”. Your first portfolio gives you the foundation — so location + guidance matter.
How to Find the Right Photographer
Your first shoot isn’t just about pretty pictures — it’s your introduction to the industry. A strong portfolio can launch your career, and the right photographer will guide you every step of the way.
Not every photographer is equally suited to agency-ready work. Here’s how to choose wisely:
Have they worked with models who went on to get signed or booked jobs?
Do they show real “first-time model” shoots — not just high-budget campaigns?
Will they help with wardrobe, posing, expression, and styling?
What’s their turnaround time, editing quality, and image usage rights?
With experience in New York, Paris, and Australia, I bring that international standard to my local sessions in Brisbane and Byron Bay.
Agencies I’ve Worked With: IMG (NY, Paris, Sydney), TheSociety (NY), Elite (NY), NEXT (NY), Wilhelmina (NY), New York Model Management, Heroes (NY), Ford Models (NY, Paris), Divide Management (NY), Bamby Management (NY, AU), MUSE (NY), Cover Management (Paris), Premium Models (Paris), The Face Management (Paris), Viviens Models (Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne), CHIC Management / Scoop Management (Sydney, Brisbane), Priscillas (Sydney), Que (Gold Coast), Saint Model Management (Gold Coast), Kult Management (Sydney), EVE (Brisbane), LOSTANDFOUND Management (Brisbane).
A Note for Parents
If you’re reading this on behalf of your teen: great. Modelling can be a positive, confidence‑building experience when the environment is safe and professional.
Sessions are age‑appropriate and supervised.
No prior modelling experience required — coaching is built‑in.
You’re welcome to stay during the shoot, ask for updates, and review final images.
Packages for Aspiring Models
Here’s how a starter session might look:
First Edition Silver – Starter Portfolio: 60 minutes | 2 looks | 8 edited images
Agency Builder Gold – Studio: 90 minutes | up to 4 looks | 8 edits + agency digitals
Signature Platinum – Studio or Beach : Up to 3 hours | up to 6 looks | 8 edits + agency digitals
(See full budget breakdown on my Model Portfolios & Test Rates page)
FAQ
Do I need experience to start modelling?
No. Most models start with none — what matters is your look, attitude and image quality.
What age can I start?
Many agencies welcome 14–22-year-olds. Height and body awareness — especially from dance, sport, or acting — can give you an edge, but they’re not essential.
Can parents attend the shoot?
Yes — for under‑18s, parent/guardian presence is standard and encouraged.
What’s included in the shoot?
Professional direction, lighting setups, retouched high‑resolution images. Wardrobe guidance is provided, but you bring your own clothes.
Final Call: Take Your First Step
You don’t need to be experienced, famous or ready to walk runways tomorrow. You just need a strong starting point — and the right support.
Ready to begin? Book your shoot or request a callback →
Andrea Langfeldt (Elite Models NY) photographed by Dave Blake
