Landing modeling gigs requires more than just a stunning portfolio; it demands a resume that showcases your unique attributes and experience in a concise and compelling way. Your resume is your first impression, and it needs to instantly grab the attention of agencies and clients, highlighting your key skills, measurements, and relevant experience. Skip the generic templates and leverage our modeling resume template, specifically designed to spotlight what makes you a standout candidate in the competitive world of fashion and commercial modeling.
This template is structured to emphasize the crucial details that casting directors and agents seek. We've included sections for essential measurements, physical attributes, special skills (like dance, acting, or sports), and a portfolio showcase. Beyond the typical resume components, our template guides you in presenting your experience in a visually appealing and informative manner, maximizing your chances of securing auditions and bookings. It's easily customizable, ensuring your unique personality and talents shine through.
Ready to create a resume that's as captivating as your photos? Our modeling resume template offers a professional yet approachable design that's easy to navigate and tailor to your individual needs. Start building a resume that not only impresses but also gets you noticed, opening doors to exciting opportunities and a fulfilling career in modeling. Download our template today and take the first step towards your dream job!
Why modeling resumes need a specific template
Unlike traditional resumes that focus heavily on work experience and quantifiable achievements, a modeling resume serves a distinctly different purpose. It acts more as a visual portfolio and casting call introduction, highlighting physical attributes, measurements, experience in specific modeling niches, and a compelling headshot. Generic resume templates often lack the necessary sections and visual layout required to effectively present a model's profile.
A standard resume often emphasizes skills listed as keywords and quantifiable results in past roles. While some experience is beneficial in a modeling resume (e.g., runway shows, print work), the focus shifts to physical attributes, specific skills like posing, and a strong visual presence. A specialized template caters to this by including sections for height, weight, hair and eye color, and clothing sizes, crucial information for casting directors. Furthermore, it allows for the strategic placement of a professional headshot, often at the top, as it's the first thing a client will notice.
ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) optimization is still important, but in a different way. While traditional resumes aim to be scanned for keywords related to job skills, modeling resumes need to be formatted so that the relevant physical attributes and modeling experience are easily extracted. This might involve using specific keywords related to modeling types (e.g., "fitness model," "commercial model," "runway model") and ensuring clear and concise formatting. A modeling-specific template is designed with these nuances in mind, ensuring the information is both visually appealing and easily digestible by potential clients and agencies.
In essence, a specialized modeling resume template streamlines the application process for models. It guides them in presenting the most relevant information concisely and visually attractively, making it easier for casting directors and agents to assess their suitability for specific roles. Using a generic template would often result in a poorly formatted document that doesn't highlight the model's key assets, ultimately hindering their chances of securing auditions and bookings.
Key sections: stats, experience, skills, portfolio
A modeling resume differs significantly from resumes in other fields. While traditional resumes emphasize work history and education, a modeling resume heavily focuses on your physical attributes, relevant experience in front of the camera, and a strong portfolio. This section needs to be meticulously crafted to showcase your unique selling points and appeal to potential clients or agencies.
Stats: This section provides crucial information about your physical appearance. Include your height, weight, bust/chest, waist, hips, shoe size, hair color, and eye color. Accuracy is paramount. Agencies and clients rely on this information to determine if you fit their specific project requirements. Measurements should be updated regularly, especially if there are significant changes. Avoid exaggerating or providing misleading information, as this can damage your credibility.
Experience: Detail your modeling experience, even if it's limited. List each job, including the client, photographer, or agency you worked with, the type of project (e.g., editorial, runway, commercial), and the date. Briefly describe your role and responsibilities in each project. For example, "Modeled clothing line for XYZ Retailer, Summer Campaign 2023." Focus on highlighting any notable achievements or recognition you received. If you have little or no professional experience, include relevant experience from workshops, student projects, or collaborations with aspiring photographers. Showcase your versatility and willingness to learn.
Skills: This section should highlight skills relevant to modeling. While your appearance is important, skills such as posing, runway walking, acting, dancing, and specific knowledge of different modeling styles (e.g., print, runway, fit) are highly valuable. Include any certifications or training you have received in these areas. Also, mention soft skills such as professionalism, communication, adaptability, and the ability to take direction. Strong communication skills are essential for collaborating with photographers, stylists, and clients.
Portfolio: Your portfolio is the most crucial part of your modeling resume. It should showcase your best work and demonstrate your range as a model. Include high-quality photographs that represent different styles and looks. Ensure your portfolio is easily accessible, either online through a website or a digital portfolio platform, or as a physical book. Provide a link to your online portfolio in the header of your resume. Regularly update your portfolio with new and relevant work. Seek professional advice on portfolio curation to ensure it presents you in the best possible light.
Formatting for visual impact and readability
The visual appeal and readability of your modeling resume are paramount. A recruiter or casting director might only glance at your resume for a few seconds, so it needs to immediately capture their attention and present information clearly. This means making strategic choices about font, layout, and the use of white space.
Choose a clean and professional font like Arial, Calibri, or Helvetica. Avoid overly decorative or script fonts, as they can be difficult to read and appear unprofessional. Font size should be consistent throughout the document, generally 10-12 points for body text and slightly larger for headings. Use bolding and italics sparingly to highlight key information, but avoid overuse as it can be distracting.
Structure your resume with clear sections and plenty of white space. This makes it easier for the reader to quickly scan and find the information they're looking for. Use bullet points to list skills and achievements, and keep descriptions concise and to the point. Consistent formatting throughout the document demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism. Consider using a simple, modern template as a starting point, but personalize it to reflect your unique brand and experience.
Consider the overall visual hierarchy. The most important information, such as your name, contact information, and key modeling experience, should be prominently displayed. Use visual cues like headings and line breaks to guide the reader's eye through the document. Ensure consistent margins and alignment to create a polished and professional look. Double-check for any typos or grammatical errors, as these can detract from your credibility.
Highlighting relevant modeling experience
When crafting your resume for modeling positions, it’s crucial to emphasize the experiences that directly showcase your capabilities and appeal to potential clients or agencies. This means going beyond simply listing your past jobs. Instead, focus on highlighting specific accomplishments, relevant skills, and tangible results that demonstrate your value as a model. Always tailor your resume to the specific type of modeling you're pursuing, whether it's fashion, commercial, print, or runway.
Prioritize your experience section by leading with your most recent and relevant roles. For each entry, detail the name of the client or agency, the dates of your engagement, and a concise description of the projects or campaigns you worked on. Use action verbs and quantifiable achievements whenever possible. For example, instead of saying "Participated in a photoshoot," try "Increased brand awareness by 15% through participation in a national advertising campaign photoshoot." This approach demonstrates the impact of your work and catches the attention of recruiters.
Consider adding a "Skills" section where you list specific skills applicable to modeling, such as posing techniques, runway walking, understanding of lighting, makeup artistry knowledge, and any specialized skills like dance or acting. Be sure to include skills related to communication, collaboration, and professionalism, as these are highly valued in the industry. Adapt your skills list to each specific job description to highlight keywords relevant to the role.
If you have limited professional experience, don't be discouraged. You can showcase relevant skills through alternative avenues. For example, list student projects, independent photoshoots, volunteer work, or even personal projects where you demonstrated relevant modeling skills. Supplement this with any relevant certifications or training programs completed. A strong portfolio is critical, so make sure your resume includes a link to your online portfolio or website where potential clients can view your work. Make sure the URL is easily accessible and that your portfolio represents your best and most diverse work.
Showcasing your physical attributes accurately
In the modeling industry, accurately representing your physical attributes is paramount. Unlike traditional resumes where personal details are minimized, a modeling resume or comp card requires specific information that agencies and clients use to determine suitability for projects. This section needs to be clear, honest, and comprehensive, reflecting your current appearance. Avoid exaggerations or outdated information, as discrepancies can lead to missed opportunities or even damage your reputation. Regularly update this section as your appearance changes due to age, hair style, or other factors.
The key physical attributes to include are height (in feet and inches or centimeters), weight (in pounds or kilograms), measurements (bust/chest, waist, hips), dress size, shoe size, hair color, and eye color. Be precise with your measurements. If you have tattoos or piercings, it's important to document their location and size. If you have any unique features or characteristics (e.g., a gap in your teeth, a distinctive birthmark), consider whether to include them. While some features might be considered imperfections, they can also be what makes you stand out and memorable.
Photographs are also a crucial part of showcasing your physical attributes. Choose high-quality, professional photos that accurately represent your current look. Include a headshot and a full-body shot. Avoid heavily edited or filtered photos. The goal is to present an honest and realistic portrayal of yourself. Consider including photos with different hairstyles or outfits to showcase your versatility. Your comp card should clearly display your physical attributes alongside your photographs.
Remember that the information you provide is used to match you with potential jobs. Inaccurate or outdated information can waste everyone's time. Treat this section with the same level of professionalism and attention to detail as any other section of your resume. Keep it updated and readily available for agencies and clients.
Resume Example: modeling resume template
Below is a simple and clean resume example tailored to modeling resume template. Replace placeholder details with your own achievements.
Jane Doe
[email protected] · (555) 123-4567 · New York, NY · LinkedIn.com/in/janedoe · janedoeportfolio.com
Professional Summary
Highly motivated and versatile model with 3+ years of experience in print, runway, and commercial projects. Proven ability to adapt to diverse creative briefs and collaborate effectively with photographers, stylists, and designers. Dedicated to delivering exceptional results and maintaining a professional demeanor on set.
Key Skills
- Runway Walking
- Posing (Editorial, Commercial)
- Facial Expressions & Emotion Conveyance
- Adobe Photoshop, Capture One, Body Scanning Software
Experience
Freelance Model — Self-Employed (2021–Present)
- Increased bookings by 20% year-over-year through proactive self-promotion and networking.
- Collaborated with photographers and stylists to create compelling visual content for online portfolios and social media.
- Utilized body scanning software and measurements to ensure accurate fit for clothing samples.
Runway Model — New York Fashion Week (2022–2023)
- Walked in 5+ shows each season, showcasing designer collections to a global audience.
- Maintained a professional attitude and demeanor backstage, working efficiently under pressure.
Projects (Optional)
- "Urban Edge" Editorial: Featured in online magazine, showcasing contemporary streetwear.
Education & Certifications
- Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Design — Fashion Institute of Technology (2021)
- Runway Modeling Certification — Model Academy (2020)
Additional
- Awards: "Model of the Year" - Local Fashion Awards (2022) · Languages: English (Native), Spanish (Conversational)
Portfolio presentation tips
Your portfolio is arguably as important, if not more so, than your resume when applying for modeling positions. It showcases your versatility, experience, and overall look. A well-presented portfolio leaves a lasting impression and demonstrates your professionalism. Consider your portfolio an evolving document that you should constantly update with your best and most recent work.
When presenting your portfolio, prioritize quality over quantity. A smaller collection of high-quality images is far more effective than a large collection of mediocre ones. Include a variety of shots that showcase different looks, styles, and expressions. Think about the types of modeling jobs you're targeting and tailor your portfolio accordingly. If you're aiming for high-fashion, include editorial-style shots. If you're interested in commercial work, include images that demonstrate your ability to portray everyday characters and situations.
Pay close attention to the technical aspects of your portfolio presentation. Ensure that all images are high-resolution and well-edited. Consider the layout and design of your portfolio, whether it's a physical book or an online website. A clean, uncluttered design will allow your photos to stand out. For online portfolios, ensure your website is mobile-friendly and loads quickly. Include clear and concise captions or descriptions for each image, providing context and crediting the photographers, stylists, and makeup artists involved.
Be prepared to discuss your portfolio in detail during interviews or meetings with agencies or clients. Practice describing the different shoots, the concepts behind them, and the skills you utilized. Know the photographers, stylists, and designers you've worked with and be ready to speak positively about your collaborations. Your portfolio is a reflection of your brand, so ensure that it represents you in the best possible light.
FAQs
This section addresses common questions regarding the use of a modeling resume template. Understanding these FAQs can help you create a compelling and effective resume that showcases your unique skills and experience in the modeling industry, ultimately increasing your chances of securing auditions and bookings.
What information should I include in my modeling resume? Your modeling resume should include your contact information (name, phone number, email, location), physical attributes (height, weight, measurements, hair color, eye color), agency representation (if any), experience (modeling jobs, campaigns, runways), skills (posing, walking, acting, dancing), education (relevant courses or workshops), and any special talents (singing, playing instruments). High-quality professional photos are crucial and should be included separately or linked to an online portfolio. Consider adding client list. It is important to have high quality photos.
How long should my modeling resume be? Ideally, your modeling resume should be concise and limited to one page. Focus on highlighting your most relevant and impressive experience and skills. Use bullet points and short descriptions to keep the information easy to read and digestible for casting directors and agencies. Tailor your resume to each specific job if possible, emphasizing the skills and experience most relevant to the role.
Should I include my age on my modeling resume? While it's generally not recommended to include your age on your resume in other industries, it's more common in modeling. However, you have the option to omit it if you feel it might be a disadvantage. Focus instead on your physical attributes and relevant experience to convey your suitability for the role. Be prepared to provide your age if specifically requested.
Resume Example: modeling resume template
Below is a simple and clean resume example tailored to modeling resume template. Replace placeholder details with your own achievements.
Jane Doe
[email protected] · (123) 456-7890 · New York, NY · LinkedIn.com/in/janedoe · janedoe.com (Portfolio)
Professional Summary
Highly versatile and experienced model with 5+ years in print, runway, and commercial projects. Proven ability to adapt to diverse briefs, collaborate effectively with creative teams, and consistently deliver exceptional results. Seeking opportunities to contribute expertise and passion to innovative campaigns.
Key Skills
- Posing (Fashion, Lifestyle, Commercial)
- Runway Walking (Catwalk, Showroom)
- Facial Expressions (Emotive, Versatile)
- Client Communication & Collaboration
Experience
Freelance Model (2018–Present)
- Increased bookings by 20% year-over-year through proactive networking and portfolio management.
- Represented brands such as [Brand A] and [Brand B] in national advertising campaigns.
- Utilized professional photography equipment and retouching software to create compelling portfolio images.
Runway Model — Fashion Week (2020–2022)
- Walked in over 15 shows, including collections by [Designer A] and [Designer B].
- Consistently received positive feedback from designers and casting directors.
Projects (Optional)
- "Summer Style" Editorial: Featured in national magazine; enhanced brand awareness. See: example.com/portfolio
Education & Certifications
- Modeling Workshop — New York Academy of Modeling (2018)
- Advanced Posing Techniques Certificate — Model Mastery Institute
Additional
- Fluent in Spanish · Awards: "Model of the Year" (2021) · Published in "Fashion Today" Magazine
Maximizing your chances of getting booked
Landing modeling jobs requires more than just a stunning portfolio. Your resume acts as a crucial first impression, showcasing your experience, skills, and professionalism to agencies and clients. To maximize your chances of getting booked, your modeling resume template needs to be targeted, concise, and visually appealing, without sacrificing clarity for an Applicant Tracking System (ATS).
Firstly, tailor your resume to each specific opportunity. Read the brief carefully and highlight the skills and experience that directly align with the job requirements. For instance, if a client is looking for fitness models, emphasize relevant experience in sports, athletic poses, and understanding of health and wellness. A generic resume will likely be overlooked in favor of candidates who demonstrate a clear understanding of the project's needs.
Here are some key strategies to consider:
- Highlight Relevant Experience: Focus on modeling jobs, campaigns, and collaborations that showcase your versatility and abilities. Include details such as the brand, photographer, and type of project.
- Showcase Your Skills: List your specific modeling skills, such as posing, runway experience, print work, commercial work, and any specialized abilities like dance, acting, or sports.
- Include Measurements and Statistics: Provide accurate and up-to-date measurements (height, weight, bust/chest, waist, hips, shoe size, hair color, eye color).
- Use High-Quality Photos: Include professional headshots and full-body shots that represent your current look. Ensure the images are high resolution and properly cropped.
- Proofread Carefully: Ensure your resume is free of grammatical errors and typos. A polished and professional resume demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism.
Finally, ensure your resume is easily accessible. Provide your contact information prominently, including your phone number, email address, website (if applicable), and social media links (Instagram, etc.). A professional online presence is essential for showcasing your work and making it easy for clients to connect with you. By following these guidelines, you can create a compelling modeling resume template that increases your chances of getting booked.
Ready to Strut Your Stuff?
We hope this modeling resume template has provided you with a solid foundation. Remember to meticulously tailor it to each specific role and agency you're targeting. The more personalized and polished your resume, the better your chances of making a lasting impression.
This template is just a starting point! We encourage you to experiment with different layouts, fonts, and phrasing to truly showcase your unique personality and experience. Don't forget to revisit our site for more tips, templates, and industry insights to help you navigate the competitive world of modeling and land your dream gigs!