I’m sharing my honest guide for anyone wanting to get into modelling—how to stay safe, avoid creeps, and my own story of when I nearly got pushed too far. No fluff, just real talk. A short guide also a little chat between me and you.
So, You Wanna Be a Model?
Alright babe, if you’re thinking of stepping into the world of modelling, let me give you the real talk no one else will. I’ve been there—glam shoots, runway shows, and yeah… the darker bits too. It’s not all champagne and sparkles, and if you’re not clued up, some people will try to take advantage. This guide’s for you—and for your loved ones who want to keep you safe.
1. Get Legit: Agencies vs. Scammers
First off—only work with accredited agencies. Do your research. If someone messages you on Instagram saying you’ve “got the look” and asks for pics, run. Real agencies won’t ask you for nudes, lingerie shots, or money upfront. Ever.
Red Flags to Watch For:
- Asking for sexy photos before you’ve even signed anything.
- Saying “you don’t need a contract” or trying to rush you.
- Promising big money fast—it’s rarely like that.
- Telling you to lie about your age.
Tip: Always Google the name + “scam” or “reviews.” Better safe than sorry.
2. Never Go Alone, Especially at First
Even if it feels professional, take someone with you to shoots, castings, meetings—especially if you’re under 21. A legit photographer or agency won’t mind at all. If they push back, that’s your cue to leave.
3. Know Your Boundaries
This is YOUR body. If anyone pressures you to pose nude or do anything that makes you uncomfortable—walk. You always have the right to say no, no matter what you’ve signed or agreed to.
4. Read the Contract. All of It.
It’s boring, I know. But don’t just skim. I once signed with a dodgy agency that owned my images for five years and used them in ways I never agreed to. Get a second pair of eyes on the paperwork—ideally someone with legal experience.
5. The Internet is Forever
Every pic you take, every shoot you agree to—could be online forever. Ask yourself: would you be okay if your nan or future boss saw it? If not, maybe give it a miss.
6. Mental Health Matters
Modelling can mess with your head. Constant comparisons, comments on your body, rejection—it’s a lot. I struggled with depression quietly for years ‘cause I felt I had to smile through it. Talk to someone, babe. Don’t suffer in silence.
A Personal Story From Me – Sarah
Let me tell you about something that happened early in my career, ‘cause I want you to learn from it. I got offered a paid lingerie shoot. The photographer seemed proper sound at first—studio set up, contracts, makeup artist, all that. I was 19, nervous but excited. Thought I’d hit the big time.
We started with cute bikini shots. Then he said, “You’ve got an amazing figure, let’s try some topless stuff—real classy, artistic.” I hesitated, but he kept saying it would boost my career, that it’s totally normal and all the big models do it. I gave in.
Then, things got weird. He came over and said there was a producer who wanted to shoot some “adult work”—said I could make thousands if I just did “one quick scene” right there and then. My heart sank. I felt sick. He tried to sweet-talk me, saying I’d be stupid to walk away from easy money. But no way was I doing that. I told him to get lost, grabbed my stuff, and left in tears.
It took me ages to feel proud of myself again. I nearly got pulled into something I never wanted. And the scariest part? I was this close to saying yes, just to please someone else.
That day changed everything. I learned to speak up, to trust my gut, and never let anyone push me into something that didn’t feel right. If it smells dodgy, it probably is.
Why I Don’t Get Hired Anymore
Truth is, these days I can’t get a job in the modelling world no matter how hard I try. Not ‘cause I’ve lost it or don’t have the look—but ‘cause I speak my mind. I’ve always stood by my values, said what I think, and stayed true to myself, even when it didn’t fit the industry’s little box. That’s cost me big time. I’ve been labelled as “far right” just for having conservative views, for speaking out about things most people whisper about. Suddenly, I’m too “problematic” to book. It’s heart breaking when your whole career fades just because you won’t pretend to be something you’re not. But I’d rather be honest than be fake for a pay check. Always.
Final Words, From One Woman to Another
Modelling can be beautiful, empowering, and fun. But it can also be dangerous if you’re not careful. Keep your eyes wide open, stay grounded, and never let anyone take away your control.
You’re not just a pretty face, babe. You’re a force. Never forget that. xx
Hi, I’m Sarah Jade. I’m 25, Yorkshire born stubborn redhead, and just finding my feet in the wild world of independent journalism.I’ve always had this fire in me for telling real stories, the kind that actually mean something. I love the British spirit, the blunt honesty, the humour, and yes… I do get emotional about free speech and the truth. I’m not perfect, but I care deeply about people, fairness, and saying what others might be too scared to.