Although they may not always be household names like some women in the industry, famous male models such as Tyson Beckford, David Gandy, Marcus Schenkenberg, Gabriel Aubry, and Sean O'Pry have all made a name for themselves in the modeling world. However, there are many other lesser-known types of male models who earn a lucrative income working in areas such as commercial modeling or fitness modeling.
Male models collaborate with commercial clients, manufacturers, tech companies, airlines, pharmaceutical companies, car makers, fitness businesses, and more. While becoming the next top model is highly competitive, there are many niches you can enter with the right guidance from a model agency.
Fashion (Editorial) Model
Editorial models, or high-fashion models, appear in magazines like Men's Vogue, GQ, Details, and Numero. They work with renowned designers such as Giorgio Armani, Prada, Calvin Klein, Gucci, Hugo Boss, and Burberry. Becoming an editorial model often requires meeting certain height and proportion standards, although model agencies also consider the candidate’s “complete package” and personality.
Commercial Model
Unlike editorial models, commercial models can be of any age and size. They appear in advertisements for household products, magazines, catalogs, and TV campaigns. Most model agencies simply require a few good photos or polaroids to represent these models, and opportunities are plentiful for those who are persistent.
Runway / Catwalk Model
Runway models must meet precise height requirements to fit the clothing presented by designers. They often attend multiple castings per day and must show considerable perseverance to succeed. An experienced model agency can guide a model in this competitive field.
Fitness and Underwear Model
Fitness and underwear models represent athletic and toned physiques. Many start as athletes or trainers before moving into modeling. Agencies specializing in fitness or commercial modeling can help these models find opportunities in magazines, clothing campaigns, or sports supplement campaigns.
Specialized Models
Some models work only on specific body parts, such as hands or feet, and are sought after for targeted campaigns. Others specialize as fit models, senior models, or child models, each with unique needs and often represented by specialized model agencies.
A Place for Everyone
Regardless of your height, age, or physique, there is a niche for every model. The key is to find the type of modeling that suits you, build a professional portfolio, and work with model agencies that can maximize your chances in this competitive industry.
