How to Become a Runway Model (15 Tips & Best Paying Agencies)

Are you fascinated by runway models? Do you want to be the next Gigi Hadid, gracing the biggest billboards in town or the cover of Vogue?

If you want to know how to become a runway model and make money, this article will prove very helpful.

It reveals the different ways you can become a runway model, the different ways you can make money and most importantly, some of the best modeling agencies that can help you get paid.

In fact, some of the modeling companies included in this article pay Runway models anywhere from $20,000 to as much as $200,000 annually!

Also, some of the modeling companies in this article worked with top-class models such as Christy Turlington, Elle Macpherson, Kate Connick, Anna Yurkova, Lydia Bielen, Milla Jovovich, Rita Ora, Anja Rubik, Cindy Crawford, Gisele Bundchen, Gigi Hadid, Ashley Graham, Miranda Kerr, Joan Smalls, Lara Stone, and Naomi Campbell.

Keep reading as this article is specifically tailored to introduce you to runway modeling and companies that will really help you get paid.

 

Why Should You Become a Runway Model?

Modeling is becoming a top choice career in the fashion industry. Thousands of talents are chasing the dream of becoming the next runway model.

These talents are eager to walk the catwalk during fashion shows, strut down the runway, try out an array of gorgeous clothing provided by exotic brands and dictate the upcoming fashion trends to the world.

In addition, runway models get to make a lot of money while they walk down the runways of luxury designers, travel to exotic cities.

Also, they work with celebrities in the fashion industry and meet influential people worldwide.

Most importantly, you can end up making a lot of money like many of the popular supermodels out there today.

Supermodels like Gisele Bundchen, Karlie Kloss, and Kendall Jenner are some of the current most in-demand models, making millions of dollars.

 

How to Become a Runway Model and Make Money

 

1. Have the Physical Requirements

Usually, modeling agencies will look out for females between the ages of 16 -21 with a minimum of 5.9 inches in height.

Although there is no official weight requirement, most runway models are lean, skinny, and weigh between 110 – 130 pounds.

Prospective talents below 18 years old would require their parent/guardian or lawyer to sign any modeling contract.

 

2. Develop Your Runway Modeling Skills

To become a world-class runway model, it’s crucial to have a breathtaking runway walk. Runway modeling is an art that can be practiced if you are committed and dedicated.

1. Walk in a straight posture with your shoulders down and your arms swinging naturally.
2. Keep your eyes straight and relax your jawbones.
3. Don’t forget to sway your hips and keep your toes pointed forward.
4. Above all, don’t exaggerate your movements.

It’s important to practice on a straight line and at the end of the line strike a pose by leaning on one hip, wait for a few seconds and walk back confidently to the starting point.

 

3. Practice Runway Model Poses in Front of the Camera

One of the most important parts of runway modeling is working with highly skilled fashion photographers to create a masterpiece.

Most of the supermodels you adore didn’t just sit in front of a camera and got lucky; they have practice and mastered the act of posing in front of a camera over time.

As a runway model, you should use your posing, facial expressions, and artistic intuition to help express the photographer’s ideas.

Hence the need to have the right posing skills, and you can only get this by consistently practicing with a camera.

 

4. Build an Excellent Modeling Profile

This is an important step regarding the latest development in technology. An excellent modeling profile showcases your stunning images.

Usually, one of the most important requirements from model agencies and clients is your modeling profile.

It’s good to have an online version sent to agents or clients via mail and a documented or printed version that can be projected when you meet them in person.

You need all the exposure you can get to progress in the highly competitive modeling industry, and an excellent modeling profile can facilitate your progress.

 

5. Find the Right Modeling Agency

Every model needs an agency. Start with the local agency in your area.

Do your research and make sure their ideas and mission are in line with your goals.

However, if you desire a world-renown agency, all you have to do is:

• Search for the agency.
• Know their requirement.
• Submit the requirement as stated on their website.
• Be yourself, be calm, and hope for the best.

Most modeling agencies will prefer a simple and natural photo of you so they can see you for you.

Make sure your pictures and videos are clean and clear. Do not submit selfies, unclear images, or photoshopped photos.

Check out the following articles for more career path ideas:

• How to Become a Commercial Model
• How to Become a Catalog Model
• How to Become a Glamour Model
• How to Become a Fitness Model
• How to Become a Music Video Model
• How to Become a Freelance Model

 

10 Best Modeling Agencies That Pay Or Help Runway Models Get Paid

 

1. IMG Models

IMG company is an international pacesetter in talent management.

They are responsible for scouting and bringing supermodels like Gigi Hadid, Ashley Graham, Miranda Kerr, and Joan Smalls into stardom.

IMG is a highly established agency with a reputation and resources to support prospective models’ careers.

Founded in 1987 by Mark McCormack as an offshoot of IMG Worldwide.

With offices in New York, Los Angeles, London, Milan, Paris, and Sydney, the global presence, impressive history, and overwhelming reputation of IMG company is undeniable.

• World-renowned
• Overwhelming reputation
• Rich history

Click here to check out IMG Models

 

2. DNA model management LLC

DNA Model Management company was established in 1996 to bridge the gap between local agencies and global agencies.

DNA Model Management quickly rose to become a force in the fashion industry with powerful talent and client rosters to their already expanding list.

Unlike most modeling companies, the DNA managements approach is holistic and has fostered top-tier talents to stardom including Kaia Gerber, Naomi Campbell, and Emily Ratajkowski.

DNA is a highly successful model management company in the US and has an unmatched track record of booking iconic campaigns.

• Worked on iconic campaigns
• Popular in the united states
• Powerful client roster

Click here to check out DNA model management LLC

 

3. STATE Management Company

Unlike most popular modeling companies, State Management Company is relatively a new player in the industry.

That explains its modern and progressive approach to both management and scouting.

Established in 2015 to introduce new faces to the model industry dominated by a few.

They currently work with elite models such as Kate Connick, Anna Yurkova, and Lydia Bielen.

The state management approach is straightforward; they prefer to personalize their coaching approach for every model.

This makes them one of the best model companies for prospective talents.

• Best for prospective talents.
• A modern approach to management.
• Personalized coaching approach.

Click here to check out State Management Company

 

4. Fenton Modeling Agency

Although the Fenton modeling agency is relatively new and small, they have achieved great things in such a short time.

Fenton is arguably the best boutique agency in the united states.

Despite being a latecomer and small in size, through its dedicated team, Fenton has been able to secure some of the biggest deals in the industry.

It is disrupting the traditional flow and putting other modeling companies on their toes.

Its ability to pull off the unthinkable, small but dedicated staff and modern approach makes them one of the best agencies in the US.

• New and small
• Dedicated team
• Worked on iconic campaigns.

Click here to check out Fenton Modeling Agency

 

 

5. Elite Models

Suppose you ask fashion enthusiast for the agency that represent the best models that dominate the catwalks at fashion week, they are most likely to chorus Elite.

Elite is an internationally respected agency, and its models have graced the runways of the biggest fashion designers in the world.

Through its famous Model Look Contest, Elite management has discovered supermodels like Cindy Crawford, Gisele Bundchen, and Lara Stone and has nurtured them to stardom.

A runway segment of a fashion show isn’t complete without one or two Elite’s model(s).

• One of the oldest
• King of runway fashion shows
• Host the famous Model Look Contest

Click here to check out Elite Models

 

6. Bella Agency

One of New York’s most refined. Bella is a contemporary boutique agency with big-name clients such as Delta Airlines, Pantene, and Uniqlo on this list.

Founded in 2004 to serve as a grooming ground for prospective runway talents.

Bella currently represents big names in the fashion industry such as Liz Crowley, Olivia Norella, and Sofia Belhouari.

In addition to being a grooming space for models, Bella specialized in commercial gigs with a bi-coastal presence across different divisions in the fashion industry.

• One of New York’s finest
• Provides grooming services for prospective talent
• Specializes in commercial gigs

Click here to check out Bella Agency

Also See: How to Get Dream11 Coupon Codes, Drop Invite Codes & KOHO Referral Code.

 

7. Next Management Company

Founded in New York in 1989, Next management company is a modeling agency that offers a clean and meticulously operated working environment for prospective models looking to make headway in the fashion industry.

Since its establishment, Next management has infused new faces that have brought a new dimension to the industry.

Superstar models that have work with them include Milla Jovovich, Rita Ora, and Anja Rubik.

Click here to check out Next Management Company

 

8. New York Model Management

New York Model Management was founded in 1987 and co-owned by Heinz Holba and Cory Bautista.

These two industry veterans use a small boutique approach and excel in the fashion and editorial world.

Although they are a big name in the industry, they have maintained a small size and world-class fashion clients such as Ralph Lauren, Shiseido, and Stella McCartney.

Its small size and dedicated team have helped New York Model Management become one of the best in New York.

• Managed by industry veterans
• Has a small but dedicated team

Click here to check out New York Model Management

 

9. We Speak Model Management

We Speak Model Management was founded in 2013 by former model Briauna Mariah to disrupt the fashion industry tradition. Its success has led to more fluidity in the modeling world.

We Speak management represents models of different shapes, sizes, and gender. They have the most diverse and inclusive models in the industry.

We Speak models have graced the front pages of Teen Vogue magazine, and its list of clients includes Nike, Target, and XBOX.

• Most diverse and inclusive models in the industry
• Impressive client list

Click here to check out We Speak Model Management

 

10. Ford Model Company

Known for its welcoming environment, Ford model company was Founded in 1946 by a couple — Jerry and Eileen Ford.

This agency has been around for a long time, which explains its ability to manage some of the top rosters on its runway, editorial, and advertising gigs.

In the ’80s, the Ford model agency worked with top-class models such as Christy Turlington, Elle Macpherson, and Naomi Campbell.

You are guaranteed a lifelong mentor that will transform you from a prospective talent into a supermodel when managed by Ford.

Click here to check out Ford Model Company

 

Becoming a Runway Model FAQs

 

How Much Do Models Get Per Shot?

An essential part of your job as a model is to know how to monetize your talent. A model can charge hourly, flat rate, or a day rate.

The money paid mostly depends on the experience of the model. But an average model may be paid around $50 – $75/hour, and those with experience may charge $75 – $100/hour or higher.

 

I Want to Be a Model. Where Do I Start?

1. Pick a niche
2. Practice
3. Build your portfolio
4. Get an agent.
5. Take relevant classes

Also See: How to Get Paid for Being Pretty & How to Get Paid for Phone Acting Jobs.

 

How Do I Get a Career in Runway Modeling?

You need to approach a modeling agency with a well-organized portfolio of your recent photographs and videos to get into modeling.

However, if you feel confident, you can participate in contests, like the Model Look Contest sponsored by Elite Management Company.

Apart from the Model look contest, there are many other talent-searching competitions for models you could participate in to launch your career in modeling.

 

How Much Do Runway Models Get Paid?

Runway models are often paid hourly, and the pay isn’t always as rewarding as the job.

An average runway model can make $0 to $20,000 or more for a single show.

Supermodels like Gisele Bundchen, Karlie Kloss, and Kendall Jenner are some of the current most in-demand models, making millions of dollars.

 

What Type of Runway Modeling Gets Paid the Most?

Catwalk modeling, also known as High-fashion modeling, is the highest-paid division in the modeling industry.

Catwalk models are mostly slim women with 5.9 inches or men with 5.11 inches height who are paid to wear designer clothes on a runway or work with photographers to present ideas.

Although, catwalk modeling is the most financially rewarding division in the modeling industry. It isn’t a good fit for every model due to its stringent demands.

 

How Do You Become a Runway Model?

1. Understand the industry requirements
2. Develop your modeling skills.
3. Practice model poses in front of the camera.
4. Get a modeling portfolio.
5. Find a modeling agency.

 

Conclusion

Why dream of getting an autograph from Kendall Jenner when you can both strut down the runway at New York Fashion Week.

This article has explained the steps to help you become a runway model and companies that can help you monetize your talent.

Some of the modeling companies in this article worked with top-class models such as Christy Turlington, Elle Macpherson, Kate Connick, Anna Yurkova, Lydia Bielen, Milla Jovovich, Rita Ora, Anja Rubik, Cindy Crawford, Gisele Bundchen, Gigi Hadid, Ashley Graham, Miranda Kerr, Joan Smalls, Lara Stone, and Naomi Campbell.

You can definitely be one of them if you give it a go, especially if you have the right attributes needed, as explained in this article.