Today, modeling isn’t just about having a skinny body and a pretty face. There are modeling positions available to empower plus-size girls, girls with small figures, and everyone in between. Modeling is about confidence, personality, and showing life and movement. You must sell the clothes you’re wearing to the audience, which can be difficult.
There are so many types of models in the world, and one of the more famous kinds is swimsuit models. From Sports Illustrated covers to beauty pageants, the swimsuit model is a staple of the fashion industry, as it's one of the most revealing pieces of clothing you can get without diving straight into the lingerie category.
If you’re interested in the careers of swimsuit models and want to be one yourself, there are a few things you can do to begin your swimsuit modeling career.
There's a way to fast track your swimsuit modeling career (join a modeling agency that specializes in swimsuit modeling).
What are Swimsuit Models?
Swimsuit models promote all kinds of bathing suit brands, intending to get their viewers to buy them. Like any other type of clothing, they allow audiences to see the swimsuit’s style and appearance on a person.
Most people immediately think of bikinis and girls on beaches when they think of swimsuit models, but these models display one-pieces, high-rise bottoms, mid-rise bottoms, and all different types of bathing suits. Bathing suits don’t always have to be sexy, but some are, while others are fun and comfortable.
Swimsuit models tend to be curvier to show off the revealing nature of the suit, so swimsuit models are the perfect candidates for modeling lingerie and sleepwear. If you’re looking to join the swimsuit modeling business, you should be prepared to model modest and immodest styles.
How Much Can Swimsuit Models Make?
What you can make as a swimsuit model depends on who or what you’re modeling. Well-known models and celebrities make the most out of any models, but even if you’re just starting to model swimsuits, it’s still an opportunity to earn some solid money.
Successful and consistent models average about $35,000 to $70,000 per year. They are paid at about the same rate as lingerie models, though they may have more job opportunities. As you gain experience, you’ll be able to negotiate higher pay rates. Celebrity swimsuit models can easily make $100,000 per year, but it takes time, patience, and luck to get there.
Either way, you can make a living working as a swimsuit model, so if it’s your dream job, don’t give up. If you are willing to put in the work, the rewards will come.
Tips on How to Become a Swimsuit Model?
Becoming a swimsuit model is not as hard as it seems. There are so many aspiring models out there, and the competition can be difficult to beat. You need to know the ropes of the industry and tips for taking the best photos to give you the extra edge.
There are a few different ways you can get started with swimsuit modeling, some of which involve you finding other people to help you with your dream, and some that you can complete on your own.
Experience and Portfolio Building
Even if you’re new to swimsuit modeling, any experience can go a long way. Practice posing, styling different suits, and being comfortable in front of people, especially in very little clothing. If you have a friend or know someone who enjoys fashion design, partner with them to create a fashion show that will allow you both to gain experience.
You can build up a portfolio by paying for professional photographs, so when you do find an audition near you, you’ll have practice and photos to showcase your talents. If a professional photographer is out of your budget, social media is a great way to display your modeling prowess. You may even get attention from scouts looking for new talent.
Find A Good Modeling Agent
Once you have enough experience and a decent portfolio, you are ready to get your name out there. The best way is to find a modeling agency to represent and find you opportunities.
The truth is that you will be new to the modeling scene, and even if you’re a natural, a modeling agent knows the ropes of the industry and can teach them to you. They may also have connections that can improve your chances of landing a swimsuit model audition or a gig.
Confidence and Authenticity
Along with building experience, it is crucial that you feel confident and comfortable in your skin. Swimsuit modeling can be scary at first because of how revealing some of the suits can be, so loving your body is important. Even though nerves and uneasiness are inner emotions, they can still show up on camera.
Another key aspect of modeling, especially when modeling swimsuits, is authenticity. Forcing a face or a pose is not the way to go. If you’re worried about being nervous in front of the camera, practice by having a friend take photos of you, or do mirror affirmation exercises to strengthen your positive feelings about your image.
Swimsuit models sell to an audience of women who may not feel comfortable in their skin. Whether you’re skinny, plus-size, or in between, being your true self is the best way to help customers feel like they could wear that bathing suit, too.
Determination
The modeling world is not easy. Your first application or audition may not land you a gig; in fact, it probably won’t. You must persevere to be a model. The beauty and fashion industry can be cruel, and you may be in for tough competition and hardships.
Be determined and work hard for what you want. You are going to have competitors no matter what you choose to do in life. Models that show fierceness, perseverance, and grit can make it far. But remember: at the end of the day, modeling is a job, and professionalism and friendliness will do a lot to carry you through your career.
Ready to Dive In?
Becoming a swimsuit model isn’t easy. It’s a taxing job that can wear you down if you don’t have the right mindset.
The beautiful thing about modeling is that anyone can do it. It doesn’t matter what your body looks like because confidence changes everything. Nowadays, swimsuit modeling is all about representation, especially for young girls and women who fear wearing a swimsuit or bikini in public.
Relaying confidence to your audience is what sells bathing suits. To be a genuine swimsuit model, you’ll need practice, confidence, and authenticity. If you have to love your body the way it deserves, you’ve already taken an important step to being a successful swimsuit model.
