How to Become a Tattoo Model

Most of us have the same image in our heads when we think of what a model looks like. Generally, this idea has clear skin missing any blemishes and marks. This traditional model image is familiar, but those with tattoos or other body modifications still have a role in the modeling industry.

Brands and companies choose to hire tattoo models to show off their products. People with tattoos have the same chance of being hired as a model as traditional models nowadays. So, wondering how to become a tattoo model? Read on to find out more.

There's a way to fast track your tattoo modeling career (join a modeling agency that specializes in tattoo modeling).

What Is a Tattoo Model?

As tattoos have become more common, brands and companies have adjusted how they market their product. This change is especially prevalent in the clothing industry. Companies hire tattoo models, or models with visible tattoos, to showcase how their clothing looks on those with permanent ink and those without.

Tattoo models are considered alternative models, but their job is essentially the same as traditional models. The only difference is that tattoo models purposely show their tattoos to enhance the modeled product. 

Like any traditional models, tattoo models are typically interested in the fashion industry and have excellent communication skills. Tattoo models also have plenty of visible tattoos that can be seen when wearing all types of clothing. Similar to traditional models, tattoo models have boundaries and decide how much skin they’re comfortable revealing for a photo shoot.

How Much Can a Tattoo Model Make?

The salary results for tattoo models vary primarily based on location. Most resources claim that tattoo models make between $75k to $80k per year. Like traditional modeling, tattoo models will find more work and higher pay in cities like New York, San Jose, and Los Angeles. On average, tattoo models can make up to $96k salary in San Jose.

Tips on How to Become a Tattoo Model

Now that you know what a tattoo model is and the estimated salary of this career, let’s talk about how to become a tattoo model. Below are some tips for becoming a tattoo model in today’s world.

Get Inked

If you haven’t already, it’s time to get some art on your skin. The main focus of a tattoo model is to display how merchandise and clothing look on people with tattoos, so your own tattoos have to be easily visible. Most people interested in tattoo modeling have ink on their arms, but don’t be afraid to get creative. 

The most popular spots to get tattoos for modeling are arms, chest, back, and hands. You may also want to consider what you want to tattoo on your body. Not only will these tattoos be permanent on your skin, but they will also be visible to the masses through social media and advertisements.

Research Subsections of Modeling

There are plenty of branches to consider when first getting into modeling. Tattoo models can book jobs with the same subcategories of modeling as traditional models. Some popular modeling varieties include fine art, fashion, and stock photo modeling. It’s better to focus on one branch rather than spread yourself thin across multiple.

By focusing on one branch of modeling, you can efficiently spend your time building a portfolio catered to your specialty.

Begin Building Your Portfolio

Once you know what type of modeling you’re interested in, you can start building a portfolio. A modeling portfolio contains headshots and body shots to showcase a model’s potential and flexibility. You can choose to hire a professional photographer or have friends and family take your photos for you. 

As you’re working to build your portfolio, think about your boundaries as a model. For example, are there any types of poses or outfits that you’re uncomfortable with? Boundaries are necessary for any model to have to ensure comfort in the workplace.

Beef Up Your Social Media Platforms

Nowadays, models aren’t just limited to professional photoshoots for magazines or fashion shows. Instagram models work with large brands and companies to promote merchandise through social media. Plenty of Instagram models rose to fame by gaining followers and catching marketers’ eyes.

Utilize hashtags and post pictures with hashtags in the modeling industry. Research which communities on Instagram and other social media platforms you feel comfortable with and supported. It’s essential to focus on the tattoo modeling industry since it can be different from traditional modeling. You’ll find more jobs by networking with similar people.

Be Social IRL

Building a community on social media is essential, as is meeting people in real life. Tattoo models can run in different social circles than traditional models. For example, you might find other tattoo models or photographers looking for tattoo models at events like tattoo conventions or festivals. Networking is imperative to finding new business, especially if you first don’t plan on signing with a modeling agency.  

Use social media to plan meet-ups with potential photographers and other tattoo models. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok regularly form new communities for people to share interests and collaborate.

Apply for Agencies

If you’re interested in working with a modeling agency, quite a few focus solely on tattoo models. Otherwise, many large modeling agencies constantly look for all types of models to hire. Tattooed Models works with people worldwide in countries like the US, Germany, Australia, and Spain. Go Models is a large modeling agency that works with all types of models in the US.

You can also work with local agencies or photographers to build your resume before applying for agencies. Often new models work for free, but they gain photos to use in their portfolios and social media pages.

Conclusion

Starting a new career is daunting in any situation. When it comes to how to become a tattoo model, practice and persistence are key. It is necessary to build both your portfolio and network to succeed in the modeling industry. Tattoo models typically find their communities in different ways than traditional models, making the process as a whole vary between the two careers.