Modeling
Modeling Industry & Different Types of Modeling Explained
By Sachin Krishna
November 27, 2021
Modeling is the art of being the subject of an artist, photographer, or brand. It showcases an individual’s personality, confidence, and unique qualities. The modeling industry blends creativity with professionalism, offering opportunities for self-expression and career growth.
Modeling has many branches, each tailored to the concept of the shoot, target audience, or platform. It considers factors like age, physique, skin tone, and job type. Models can be also categorized based on their roles, costume preferences, and body types, reflecting the industry’s diversity.
Here is the list of the different types of models
Three Major Types of Modeling
- Runway Modeling
- Fashion Modeling
- Promotional Modeling
Further Divisions in Modeling
- Commercial Modeling
- Fitness Modeling
- Bridal Modeling
- Fit Modeling
- Age-Based Modeling
- Child Modeling
- Teen Modeling
- Mature Modeling
- Glamour Modeling
- Swimsuit Modeling
- Lingerie Modeling
- Erotic/Boudoir Modeling
- Body Size Modeling
- Plus Size Modeling
- Petite Modeling
- Parts Modeling
- Hand Modeling
- Feet Modeling
- Hair Modeling
- Ginger Modeling
- Eye & Lips Modeling
- Tattoo Modeling
- Piercing Modeling
- Emerging Modeling Types
- Instagram Modeling
- E-Commerce/Stock Modeling
Each modeling type plays a pivotal role in shaping industry standards, highlighting the importance of adaptability, creativity, and professionalism.
Whether on a runway or on television, models bring visions to life and drive the business of fashion and advertising.
The Three Major Types of Modeling
Mr. Dalu Krishnadas, fashion show director and groomer said “There are only 3 types of modeling. Runway modeling, Fashion modeling, and Promotional modeling”.Every other “Modeling type” comes under one or two or maybe all of the above-mentioned
Beyond these three, new terms like Instagram modeling have emerged, showcasing how the industry evolves with trends and technology.
Modeling encompasses various specialties, each with distinct roles and requirements. The three primary types are runway, fashion, and promotional modeling, including print and TV commercials.
Runway Modeling
Runway modeling, also known as catwalk modeling, is where models present designers’ creations during shows and events. This form of modeling sets trends and enhances brand visibility, making it an essential tool for fashion houses.
Traditionally, runway models meet specific physical standards. Female models are typically between 5’9″ and 6’0″, while male models range from 5’11” to 6’2″. A lean physique and a confident, graceful walk are essential. Models must also convey emotions through posture and facial expressions, adapting to the designer’s vision. Training and practice play a significant role in mastering these skills.
Runway shows provide a dynamic platform for fashion brands to introduce collections and reinforce brand identity. They generate buzz, attracting attention from customers, influencers, and media. This visibility increases brand awareness, loyalty, and media coverage, offering long-term benefits. Additionally, runway shows establish trends and encourage innovation. Designers showcase creativity, setting the tone for upcoming seasons and influencing consumer preferences.
Iconic events like New York Fashion Week and Paris Fashion Week exemplify the importance of runway modeling. Designers such as Chanel and Prada use these platforms to debut groundbreaking collections, blending artistry with innovation. These shows captivate audiences and drive the global evolution of fashion.
Fashion Modeling
Fashion models work with luxury brands and designers, appearing in high-fashion magazines and campaigns. This segment demands a distinct aesthetic and the ability to adapt to various styles. Female fashion models are generally between 5’8″ and 6’0″ tall, with measurements close to 34-24-34 inches. Their work often sets trends and influences consumer preferences, making them vital to the fashion ecosystem.
Promotional Modeling
Promotional modeling focuses on advertising products or services through various media. It includes:
Print Modeling:
Models appear in magazines, catalogs, billboards, and other print media, promoting a wide range of products. Physical requirements are less strict, emphasizing a relatable appearance.
TVC Modeling
Television Commercial (TVC) models feature in TV ads, requiring expressive abilities to convey messages effectively. This role demands versatility and strong acting skills.
Further Divisions in Modeling
Apart from the major types, the modeling industry categorizes models based on specific traits, roles, and job requirements. These divisions cater to unique business demands, providing tailored solutions for various sectors like advertising, e-commerce, fitness, and bridal industries. Each modeling type reflects a distinct purpose, from promoting health and wellness to representing niche fashion trends.
Modeling influences markets by representing diverse demographics and creating tailored campaigns that resonate with various consumer segments. Attributes such as style, physique, or age allow businesses to position their products strategically. These specialized categories enhance brand messaging and expand their reach in competitive markets.”
By leveraging the right talent for specific campaigns, businesses can create impactful narratives that inspire loyalty and amplify their market presence.
Commercial Modeling
Commercial modeling promotes products and services to a broad audience through various media. Unlike fashion modeling, which emphasizes high-end apparel and specific physical traits, commercial modeling values relatable individuals who connect with everyday consumers. This inclusivity is crucial, as commercial models come from diverse age groups, ethnicities, and body types, reflecting the general population and helping brands reach a wider audience.
Versatility is another key aspect of commercial modeling. Models adapt to various roles, whether portraying a parent in a family-oriented ad or a professional in a corporate setting. This flexibility allows brands to create campaigns that resonate with target markets. Relatability remains the cornerstone, as models present a genuine and approachable image that fosters trust, builds connections, and strengthens brand loyalty.
Commercial modeling spans multiple mediums. In print advertisements, models appear in magazines, brochures, billboards, and catalogs, promoting products from clothing to household items. Television commercials bring products and services to life through engaging storytelling, captivating audiences visually and emotionally.
Commercial modeling offers significant business benefits, enhancing brand visibility across print, digital, and broadcast media. Featuring relatable models in campaigns increases exposure and strengthens market presence. This approach enables brands to target specific demographics effectively, ensuring advertisements resonate and persuade audiences.
Digital media, driven by online marketing, provides broader opportunities. Models feature in social media campaigns, website banners, and online ads, reaching global audiences. Corporate promotions use models in training materials, events, and company videos, representing businesses professionally and appealingly.
Fitness Modeling
Fitness modeling showcases athleticism and promotes health and wellness products. Models in this sector embody a fit lifestyle, representing brands in sportswear, gym equipment, and nutritional supplements.They inspire audiences by demonstrating the benefits of regular exercise and healthy living, making them essential to the growing wellness industry.
Models maintain a well-defined, muscular physique, reflecting dedication to fitness and discipline. While traditional height requirements of 5’6” for women and 6’0” for men still apply in some areas, social media has expanded opportunities for diverse body types. This inclusivity highlights that fitness is about more than aesthetics—it’s about strength, vitality, and balance.
Fitness models also represent a healthy lifestyle, often sharing tips on nutrition, workout routines, and wellness practices. They adapt to various roles, from demonstrating exercises to endorsing activewear. Their ability to engage audiences effectively enhances the impact of marketing campaigns, making them valuable to businesses aiming to connect with health-conscious consumers. Brands gain credibility by associating with models who embody health and strength, reinforcing their product’s quality and effectiveness.
Opportunities in fitness modeling span advertising, social media influencing, and instructional content. Models frequently appear in commercials, print ads, and online campaigns, promoting everything from protein shakes to fitness trackers. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have become major avenues for fitness models to engage with millions of followers. By sharing workout tips, lifestyle advice, and product endorsements, they build strong connections with their audience.
Aspiring fitness models can start by developing a strong portfolio showcasing their physique and versatility. Networking with industry professionals, attending fitness expos, and leveraging social media platforms can open doors to various opportunities. Agency representation can further enhance visibility and provide valuable guidance, but many models also thrive independently.
Bridal modeling
Bridal modeling is a specialized niche within the fashion industry, focusing on showcasing wedding attire and accessories. Models in this sector embody the elegance and charm associated with weddings, helping designers and retailers present their creations to prospective brides.
Bridal models must possess a timeless and graceful appearance, often aligning with traditional beauty standards prevalent in the wedding industry. They should exhibit poise and the ability to convey romantic and emotive expressions, enhancing the allure of bridal wear. Familiarity with diverse cultural wedding traditions and attire can be advantageous, allowing models to cater to a broader clientele.
Engaging bridal models enables designers and retailers to effectively showcase their wedding collections, providing potential clients with a tangible representation of the attire. This visual appeal enhances customer engagement and drives sales. Utilizing professional models in marketing materials elevates brand image, conveying quality and sophistication to consumers.
Bridal models participate in runway shows like Bridal Fashion Week, and Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week presenting wedding gowns and accessories. They feature in editorial spreads for bridal magazines and online publications, highlighting the latest trends and designs. Models also appear in advertisements across various media, promoting bridal brands and services. Additionally, they contribute to marketing materials for wedding planners, venues, and related services, embodying the ideal bride in promotional content.
Bridal modeling plays a crucial role in the wedding industry, bridging the gap between designers’ creations and brides-to-be. Through their work, bridal models help bring wedding visions to life, inspiring and guiding clients in their journey to the altar.
Fit Modeling
Fit modeling focuses on helping fashion designers and manufacturers test the fit, drape, and overall look of their clothing on real bodies before mass production. Fit models play a critical role in ensuring that garments are functional and visually appealing to consumers.
Unlike other modeling types that focus on visual appeal, fit modeling emphasizes practicality and functionality. Fit models collaborate with designers and manufacturers to test clothing designs, providing valuable feedback on comfort, mobility, and overall wearability.
To excel in this niche, fit models must maintain consistent body measurements that align with industry standards for specific sizes. These standards vary depending on the target market, including petite, plus-size, and standard categories. Their ability to communicate garment issues clearly—such as tight seams, uncomfortable fabrics, or restrictive cuts—is essential for fine-tuning designs. This ensures that finished products cater to consumer expectations.
Fit models work across various garment categories, including casual wear, activewear, formal attire, and intimate apparel. They are essential for both ready-to-wear collections and high-fashion prototypes, helping brands create garments that resonate with their target audience. For instance, athletic wear brands like Nike rely on fit models to ensure their products provide both style and performance, while high-fashion houses like Prada test prototypes for visual impact and functional design.
With the rise of sustainability and inclusivity in fashion, fit modeling has gained even greater importance. Brands now strive to create garments that accommodate diverse body types and focus on reducing waste by minimizing returns due to poor fit. As technology evolves, virtual fit modeling tools are also emerging, complementing traditional fit models and enhancing precision in the design process.
Fit modeling bridges the gap between creativity and consumer practicality, ensuring that every garment delivers on both aesthetics and comfort.
Age-Based Modeling
Age-based modeling spans diverse age groups, each playing a vital role in the fashion and advertising industries. This inclusivity helps brands connect authentically with various consumer demographics and meet specific market demands.
Child Models
Child models, from infancy to early adolescence, are essential for promoting products like children’s clothing, toys, and educational materials. They create a bridge between brands and their young target audience, fostering trust and relatability. For example, a child model featured in a toy commercial can evoke joy and aspiration, encouraging parents to make a purchase.
Teen Models
Teen models bridge the gap between child and adult markets, representing youth in fashion, technology, and lifestyle campaigns. Their vibrant energy appeals to younger audiences, making them ideal for promoting emerging trends. For instance, a teen model showcasing a trendy backpack in a back-to-school ad can spark immediate interest among students and parents alike.
Mature Models
Mature models, typically aged 40 and above, challenge age-related stereotypes while promoting inclusivity. They play a crucial role in advertising healthcare, travel, and lifestyle products for older audiences. Featuring a mature model in a luxury cruise campaign, for example, highlights the joy and fulfillment of life at any age, resonating deeply with the target demographic.
Age-based modeling ensures that marketing strategies resonate with consumers across different life stages. By integrating diverse models, brands enhance relatability, expand their reach, and champion inclusivity in a dynamic market landscape.
Editorial Modeling
An editorial model appears in high-end fashion magazines like Vogue, showcasing the latest designs from fashion designers or clothing brands.
Editorial modeling emphasizes artistic expression and storytelling through fashion photography. Models in this niche collaborate with photographers and stylists to create compelling visual narratives highlighting a designer’s vision.
Unlike commercial modeling, which focuses on promoting products to a broad audience, editorial modeling often involves avant-garde styles and conceptual themes. This allows for greater creative freedom, resulting in impactful and memorable images.
Editorial models typically possess distinctive features and the ability to convey a wide range of emotions, enhancing the storytelling aspect of the photographs. Their work contributes significantly to setting fashion trends and influencing public perception of beauty and style.
In summary, editorial modeling is a specialized field that combines fashion, art, and storytelling, playing a crucial role in the creative direction of fashion media.
Glamour modeling
Glamour modeling is a type of modeling where the model’s allure is showcased through expressive poses, engaging eye contact, and minimal clothing. Wardrobe choices like evening wear, lingerie, or swimwear highlight the model’s features and match the shoot’s theme. Unlike fashion or runway modeling, glamour modeling prioritizes allure and personality, often emphasizing beauty and confidence. It is prominently featured in magazines, calendars, advertisements, and digital platforms, promoting products or concepts with a focus on visual attraction.
Swimsuit Modeling
Swimsuit modeling showcases swimwear collections designed for beaches, pools, or summer wear. This type of modeling combines elements of glamour and commercial modeling, focusing on fitness, confidence, and the ability to present swimwear attractively.
Swimsuit models often work in outdoor environments, such as beaches or resorts, and are featured in brand catalogs, advertisements, and campaigns. Maintaining a toned physique and vibrant energy is essential to highlight the swimwear’s design and functionality.
Brands like Speedo and Victoria’s Secret rely on swimsuit models to connect with their target market, increasing product visibility and sales. These models also contribute to brand identity by projecting lifestyles associated with leisure and luxury.
Lingerie Modeling
Lingerie modeling involves showcasing intimate apparel such as bras, panties, and nightwear. It blends glamour and elegance, focusing on creating an aspirational image of comfort and allure.
Lingerie models must exhibit confidence and poise to present delicate garments convincingly. Posing skills and an understanding of angles & profile are vital for maintaining the sophistication of the imagery.
Lingerie brands like Savage X Fenty and Agent Provocateur leverage these models to promote inclusivity and body positivity while enhancing product appeal. Lingerie modeling drives consumer engagement by portraying both beauty and comfort.
Erotic/Boudoir Modeling
Boudoir modeling is a highly intimate form of glamour modeling that focuses on sensuality and personal expression. This genre is often used for artistic purposes, personal gifts, or advertising specific products.
Boudoir models work closely with photographers to create tasteful and elegant photographs that emphasize confidence and individuality. Styling often includes lingerie or minimal clothing, with poses that evoke empowerment and intimacy.
Boudoir modeling attracts niche markets, such as bridal boudoir sessions or personal milestone celebrations. It also serves businesses like luxury hotels and high-end lingerie brands by adding sophistication and exclusivity to their advertising campaigns.
Body Size Modeling
Body Size Modeling encompasses two primary categories: Plus-Size Modeling and Petite Modeling. These niches cater to diverse body types, promoting inclusivity and representation within the fashion industry.
Plus-Size Modeling
Plus-size models typically wear a U.S. size 12 or a U.K. size 16 or above. They play a crucial role in showcasing clothing and products designed for fuller figures, appearing in various media such as advertisements, catalogs, and runway shows. The demand for plus-size models has grown as brands recognize the importance of reflecting the diversity of their consumer base. This shift not only promotes body positivity but also expands market reach, allowing companies to connect with a broader audience. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and exuding confidence are essential attributes for success in this field.
Petite Modeling
Petite models are generally defined by their shorter stature, with female models typically standing between 5’2″ and 5’7″. Despite not meeting traditional height requirements, petite models find opportunities in commercial, catalog, and parts modeling. They often represent brands targeting consumers of similar body types, ensuring that fashion is accessible and relatable to all. Success in petite modeling requires strong posing skills, a dynamic personality, and the ability to convey energy and relatability.
Both plus-size and petite modeling are integral to fostering a more inclusive fashion industry. By embracing models of various body sizes, brands not only promote diversity but also resonate more authentically with their customers, reflecting the true variety found in society.
Parts modeling
Parts modeling is a specialized area of modeling that highlights specific body parts, such as hands, feet, legs, hair, eyes, or lips, or even tattoos for advertising and promotional purposes.
Unlike traditional modeling, which focuses on the entire person, parts modeling narrows its scope to individual features that align with the product or brand being marketed. This niche requires models with flawless or distinctive features tailored to industry needs, such as smooth hands for jewelry ads, well-maintained feet for footwear campaigns, or lustrous hair for shampoo commercials.
With the rise of digital and social media platforms, parts modeling has gained even more visibility. Brands frequently use close-up shots and videos to emphasize product quality and appeal. The demand for parts models continues to grow as brands prioritize creative and visually impactful ways to connect with their audiences.
Hand Modeling
Hand models are sought after for their well-proportioned, smooth, and blemish-free hands. They are commonly featured in advertisements for products like jewelry, watches, nail polish, and hand creams. Attributes of successful hand models include long, slender fingers, even skin tone, and well-groomed nails. Maintaining soft, unblemished skin is crucial, often requiring protective measures such as wearing gloves during daily activities to prevent damage.
Foot Modeling
Foot models are essential for showcasing footwear, hosiery, and foot care products. Ideal foot models possess evenly shaped toes, smooth skin, and well-maintained nails. The absence of scars, blemishes, or varicose veins is important, as these features are highlighted in close-up shots. Regular pedicures and proper foot care are necessary to maintain the aesthetic quality required for this type of modeling.
Leg Modeling
Leg models are often featured in advertisements for skincare products, razors, stockings, and hosiery. They typically have long, shapely, and toned legs with smooth skin free of blemishes or scars. Maintaining a consistent skincare routine and avoiding activities that may cause bruising or marks are essential practices for leg models.
Hair Modeling
Hair models showcase hairstyles, hair care products, and accessories. They must have healthy, lustrous hair that can withstand various styling techniques. Attributes such as thickness, shine, and versatility in styling are highly valued. Hair models often work with hairstylists and product companies to demonstrate the effectiveness of hair care products or the latest trends in hairstyling.
Ginger Modeling as a Unique Segment
Within hair modeling, ginger modeling focuses on individuals with naturally red hair, which is rare and visually unique. Red hair adds a distinct appeal to campaigns, making it ideal for brands aiming to stand out in markets like fashion, beauty, or even niche creative projects. Ginger hair models represent natural diversity and can help brands resonate with audiences who appreciate individuality and rare beauty traits.
Eye and Lip Modeling
Models with striking eyes or lips are employed to advertise makeup products like mascara, eyeliner, eyeshadow, and lipstick. Clear, bright eyes and symmetrical, well-defined lips are desirable traits. Maintaining the skin around these areas is crucial, as close-up shots will highlight any imperfections.
Tattoo modeling
Tattoo modeling highlights body art as a key aspect of appeal, gaining traction with the growing acceptance of tattoos in mainstream culture. Tattoo models work with photographers, designers, and brands, showcasing their tattoos in print, digital platforms, and fashion shows. Tattoo models are crucial in industries like fashion and lifestyle, helping brands project alternative and edgy imagery. They also represent tattoo studios, showcasing artists’ designs and quality. Media outlets focusing on tattoo culture rely on these models to engage audiences who value creativity and personal expression.
Successful tattoo models have distinctive, well-executed tattoos placed strategically for visual impact. They possess professional skills, including confident posing, to emphasize their tattoos effectively. Models ensure their tattoos remain the focal point, maintaining the integrity of designs while presenting them with poise.
Emerging Modeling Types
The modeling industry continuously evolves, adapting to technological advancements and changing consumer preferences. Emerging modeling types like Instagram Modeling and E-Commerce/Stock Modeling highlight how digital platforms are reshaping traditional approaches. These new niches prioritize digital presence, personal branding, and adaptability, catering to modern audiences and market trends.
Instagram Modeling
Instagram modeling leverages the platform’s visual-centric nature to promote products, brands, or personal style. Instagram models typically have a substantial follower base and focus on creating curated content, blending professional photoshoots with relatable daily moments.
Attributes of Instagram models include strong engagement skills, an understanding of social media algorithms, and the ability to align their content with brand aesthetics. This modeling type has become a powerful tool for influencer marketing, enabling brands to reach specific demographics effectively. For instance, fitness models often collaborate with health brands, while fashion influencers promote clothing lines or accessories. Business benefits include enhanced brand visibility, direct consumer interaction, and measurable marketing outcomes through metrics like likes, shares, and conversions.
E-Commerce/Stock Modeling
E-commerce and stock modeling cater to online retail and stock photography platforms. Models in this category feature on product listings, advertisements, and lifestyle images for websites like Amazon or Shutterstock. This niche focuses on relatable yet polished representations that help consumers visualize product usage.
Attributes of successful e-commerce models include versatility in styling, adaptability to various product categories, and a professional demeanor for fast-paced shoots. Business benefits are substantial, as visually appealing product imagery directly impacts consumer purchase decisions. Brands leverage stock images featuring diverse models to create inclusive campaigns, broadening their market appeal.
Conclusion
Modeling is all about representation—being the focus for a photographer or brand. It can be divided into as many types as people are there. As society changes, modeling grows and adds new categories to reflect those changes.
From traditional runway shows to emerging digital platforms, modeling adapts to celebrate individuality and cater to the ever-changing needs of industries worldwide
From traditional runway shows to new digital platforms, modeling highlights individuality and meets the needs of different industries. By embracing all kinds of people, the modeling world keeps growing and creates chances for everyone to find their place.
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