How to become a model

Model garments or other apparel and accessories for prospective buyers at fashion shows, private showings, or retail establishments. May pose for photos to be used in magazines or advertisements. May pose as subject for paintings, sculptures, and other types of artistic expression.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect usually requires a high school diploma or ged, though some occupations may not..Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For example, landscaping and groundskeeping workers might require very little training or previous experience, while agricultural equipment operators can benefit from on-the job training.

What models do

• Pose for artists and photographers.

Skills that matter most

• Active Listening
• Speaking
• Critical Thinking
• Reading Comprehension
• Writing
• Active Learning
• Monitoring
• Mathematics

Is model a good career?

On the numbers, this job is close to the average across occupations. Median pay is 5% below the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• California $57,400
• Illinois $53,280
• Maryland $47,170
• Florida $45,900
• Virginia $45,720

Models salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.