How to Start a Modelling Career in 2026
A Beginner’s Guide for Girls & their Parents - London & UK
If you’re dreaming of becoming a model, one of the very first steps is creating a modelling portfolio. And here’s the good news: you do not need to spend a lot of money at the beginning and you definitely shouldn’t feel pressured to do so.
This updated 2026 guide is written especially for:
girls aged 15–18 who are curious about modelling but don’t know where to start
parents who want to understand how the industry works, what’s normal, and what to be cautious about
any beginner models based in London and across the UK
I’ll walk you through model digitals (polaroids), portfolio shoots, agencies, safety tips, and common beginner mistakes.
Do You Need a Professional Portfolio to Start Modelling?
If you’re just starting out, agencies do not expect a full professional portfolio. What they ask for instead are model digitals (also called polaroids or snaps). And surprise - you can take them yourself at home! I’ll explain below - how!
Digitals are:
simple, clean, natural images
taken with no (or very little) makeup, no styling, no posing
designed to show what you look like right now
If an agency is interested in you, they will usually:
take new digitals at the agency
or recommend a photographer they trust
or guide you on what to update next
So please don’t feel you need to book a professional shoot immediately.
✨ Pro tip: onwards for you to know - model digitals should be updated every 6–12 months, or sooner if your appearance changes (haircut, colour, weight, growth spurt).
Step-by-Step: How to Take Your Own Model Digitals at Home
What You Need
A smartphone/camera
A friend or family member to help
Natural daylight (near a window or outdoors in shade)
A plain white or light grey wall
Simple outfit: slim jeans + fitted tank top or T-shirt
Minimal or no makeup
Natural hair
Essential Shots
Take 4–6 images total:
2–3 headshots (front + profile, hair up & down)
2–3 full-body and half-body shots (front + side)
✨ Important:
No filters. No beauty apps. No retouching. Agencies want to see the real you.
What About Creative / Fashion Photos?
Creative or editorial-style images are not needed at the beginning.
They become useful:
after you’re signed with an agency
when building variety in your portfolio
when testing different styles (fashion, beauty, commercial)
These shoots are best done with a photographer who understands agency standards, not just Instagram trends.
When You’re Ready: Booking a Professional Portfolio Shoot
A professional shoot makes sense when:
you want a photographer to take your snaps
you want to gain some experience with a professional photographer in front of the camera
an agency asks you to build/update your portfolio
Why Work With a Photographer Who Specialises in Model Portfolios?
A portfolio photographer understands:
what agencies actually want to see
how to light faces naturally and flatteringly
how to guide beginners with posing
how to keep the shoot calm and confidence-building
If you’re based in London or nearby, I work specifically with beginner and developing models and can guide you through the entire process - including outfits, posing, and preparation.
What to Expect from a Professional model portfolio Shoot
Before the Shoot
A quick conversation about your goals
We’ll have a relaxed chat about what you’re interested in, what kind of modelling you’d like to try (if you already know), and any concerns or questions you may have. This helps me understand you and tailor the shoot to you.
Simple moodboard (natural vs slightly creative)
I’ll prepare a simple moodboard so we’re fully aligned on the overall vibe of the shoot. It helps us visualise the style, mood, poses, and direction for the day and makes everything feel much clearer and calmer before the shoot.
Outfit planning
Based on the moodboard, I’ll help you plan your outfits. In most cases, nothing special needs to be bought, everything can usually be found in your existing wardrobe. I’ll guide you on what works best on camera and what to avoid, so you arrive confident and prepared.
Outfit ideas for modelling portfolio. Source: Pinterest
Planing makeup and hair
For digitals (snapshots), makeup and hair are completely optional - natural is absolutely fine and often preferred.
However, if you’d like to combine two shoots in one day (starting with digitals and then moving into more creative portfolio images), I recommend working with a professional makeup artist and hair stylist. They know how to enhance your features naturally, without changing your look or overdoing it as the goal is always to keep your real characteristics visible.
I work with trusted, experienced professionals and can recommend makeup and hair artists.
Natural makeup and hear ideas. Source: Pinterest
Safety & Red Flags (Important for Parents)
When contacting model agencies or photographers, please be cautious if:
someone pressures you to pay (especially - immediately) without having a proper chat
promises fame or guaranteed agency signings
asks for inappropriate images
refuses to explain costs clearly
Reputable agencies do not charge you to join.
Photographers charge for portfolio shoots and that’s normal but it should always be transparent and optional.
Parents should feel welcome to:
attend shoots
ask questions
be involved in decisions
FAQs
Is It Normal to Pay for a Modelling Portfolio?
Yes - but only when you understand why and what you’re paying for.
Typical UK prices (2026):
DIY digitals: £0 (you can do them yourself)
Professional digitals: £200+
Creative portfolio shoots: £500+
Always ask what’s included: edits, looks, time, guidance.
Check out my Model Portfolio page to see my current offers for model digitals and creative packages.
Can You Build a Portfolio for Free?
Yes - through TFP shoots (Time For Print).
TFP means:
no one gets paid
everyone collaborates for images
expectations must be clear in advance
TFP shoots take effort to organise but are absolutely possible, especially when you’re just starting.
Do You Need a Portfolio to Become a Model?
You can apply without one, but having clean digitals and a small portfolio:
increases your chances
helps agencies see your potential
shows professionalism
How to Apply to modeling Agencies?
How to Apply to Modelling Agencies (UK)
Choose agencies you like
Check their website first
Use their online submission form if there is one
Upload digitals
Prepare basic details:
height
measurements
shoe size
hair & eye colour
Avoid emailing agencies unless they ask for it.
If you’re based in the UK, this is the list of agencies I worked with and could only recommend:
Final Thoughts
Starting a modelling career should feel exciting, not stressful. Take your time. Ask questions. Avoid pressure. And remember: modelling is a long game, not a race.
If you’d like help with your first portfolio shoot in London or just honest advice - feel free to get in touch ❤️
Happy modelling,
Jana x
