In an industry where 30 can be retirement age, how much work is there for mature models?
Read on to find out everything you need to know about modelling into your golden years.
What is a Mature Model?
A mature model can be considered anyone over the age of 30. The modelling world is predominantly a young person’s field; in high fashion especially, female models can be seen walking the runway as teens.
In commercial modelling, age requirements are much more relaxed. More “mature” adults are hired to reflect an older audience; for example, family photoshoots for clothing ranges.
Why Are Mature Models in Demand?
Mature models are required to represent some brand target audiences, particularly those whose audience includes families. Some brands also prefer to target older audiences who can afford higher price points.
Anti-ageing skincare brands will also choose to use more mature models in their marketing.
Can I Model With No Experience?
Anyone can try their hand at modelling. High fashion is notoriously the most difficult area of modelling to break into and succeed in. Commercial/catalogue modelling is much more inclusive and relaxed about its requirements, meaning more people can succeed in it.
More mature models may find it difficult to get into the industry if they have no experience. Perseverance, getting signed to an agency and an excellent modelling portfolio will help.
How Do Mature Models Stay Relevant?
Mature models must make an effort to keep informed of current affairs and popular culture. This may mean watching TV or reading magazines.
One source of free information that all models should utilise is social media, in particular Instagram. Having an Instagram account helps models to interact with their fans and to build a larger fanbase by sharing interesting photos.
Mature models must also keep informed of current make-up and fashion trends. Like all models, they must learn what suits their physique.
Are There Any Special Considerations for Older Models?
Older models may have to work harder to keep their skin and bodies in good shape. As we age, maintaining a low weight can be difficult and muscles can be trickier to build. As well as this our skin loses collagen as we age and this causes wrinkles which make us look older.
Mature models should invest in a high-quality personalised skincare routine to keep their skin in good condition. They should also pay attention to what they eat and how they work in order to keep their physiques in good shape.
How to Build a Relationship with the Right Agency
It’s important that a mature model finds the right agency to support them and find them the right work. A model agency can be found and applied to online, and there is no limit to the number of agencies you can apply to. The right modelling agency will be able to provide plenty of guidance.
Older models should look for agencies who work primarily with older models. These agencies will be approached by brands looking specifically for older models, so there will be more interview and casting call opportunities.
How to Portray Yourself as Experienced
Inexperienced models can find work though they will find it harder than models with experience.
One of the main ways to show your modelling potential is by booking a professional photo shoot and creating a high-quality portfolio. A portfolio is like a model’s CV; it contains up to 20 photos showcasing their experience.
Photos should include full-length body shots as well as close up beauty images. Try to include lots of different types of images to show your flexibility and range as a model.
Keep researching what brands are currently looking for in their models. Currently, models with grey hair are finding a lot of work, so you may want to think about your hairstyle and fashion sense in order to boost your chances of success.
Mature models should also practice posing and figure out what lighting and positions most flatter their face and body shape. As well as the usual things to contend with, mature models may also face things like wrinkles and sagging skin which they must learn to work with.
How to Find Work as a Mature Model
As well as joining a good agency, a mature model can find work in other places. The kind of work available for older people will be different to that of a young model.
A mature model is unlikely to find work on catwalks. Mature models should be realistic about the types of work available, but not feel afraid to apply to opportunities, even if they feel they do not qualify for them – you never know who may like your look.
Social media, in particular Instagram, is a great place to self-promote and attract the attention of both fans and brands. Whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, 50s or 60s and beyond, Instagram is a useful tool for models of all ages and you can create your own profile for free. Models can earn plenty of money on Instagram if they have enough active and engaging followers.
Some brands are advertising modelling opportunities, so follow your favourite brands on social media and keep an eye out.
Be comfortable in front of the camera and share your images with your fans.
Mature Successful Models
– Daphne Selfe
– Maye Musk
– Frances Dunscombe
– China Machado
– Carmen Dell’Orefice
– Lauren Hutton
– Linda Rodin
Woah! Im really digging the template/theme of this site. Its simple, yet effective. A lot of times its difficult to get that perfect balance between usability and visual appeal. I must say that youve done a excellent job with this. Additionally, the blog loads very quick for me on Chrome. Superb Blog!