When we think about modeling, the first thing that comes to mind is usually tall, beautiful girls strutting down the catwalk and great industry names, such as Naomi Campbell and Cara Delavingne. But how about David Gandy and Sean O’Pry? Not many people outside of the industry have heard of them. Yet, they are some of the most successful male models in the world.
This absence of male models in the mainstream media may trick us into believing that there isn’t much of a demand for them. However, there are many modeling opportunities for men, and not all of them are about high fashion and runways. Let’s explore them.
Demand for Male Models vs. Female Models
Let’s be straight here — the demand for male models is significantly lower than for their female counterparts. But it’s still fairly large. Another important thing to know before you decide you want to start a career in the industry is that there is a serious gender pay gap. Unlike in other jobs — women making less in general — in modeling, men earn a staggering 75% less than women. If this piece of information didn’t discourage you, and you’re still willing to try and start a modeling career, you should know that there are many different kinds of modeling jobs outside of the high fashion world.
What is Gender Pay Gap? And How Is It Different From Equal Play? Read more here
Product or commercial male models are some of the most sought after. These men don’t even have to look drop-dead gorgeous. They are usually slightly above-average looking guys because the ads and commercials they do target your average Joes.
If you’re super athletic, you may have a shot at becoming a fitness or swimwear model and work your way to the top from there. Another option includes part modeling, which is basically modeling specific body parts, such as hands for watches and jewelry.
If you’re curious and adventurous, you might even want to consider what the sex industry has to offer to a young talent like you.
Modeling for Art or Porn
If you’re willing to show some skin (this shouldn’t be a problem for a model, really), nude modeling may open some doors for you. When you think about male nudes, the first thing that comes to mind is probably porn. If you’re not interested in becoming an adult star, you could always opt for male soft porn options and solo shoots. If these options are still a bit too much for you, you can always try camming.
Male camming is not as popular as female peep shows are, that’s true. However, there are also fewer male models on the job, which means it’s much easier to make a breakthrough creating hot male fantasy shows from the comfort of your bedroom. If you are unsure about this type of modeling because you think it’s undignified, think again. You get to decide when and how you’ll work, and you can do whatever you want to and nothing more. That’s more autonomy than any other kind of model may have.
Male nudity is not only featured in porn — it is also popular in art. Art models usually pose nude for various visual artists and are mostly required to be athletic and well-built. However, you should know that this is not a lucrative profession, and it can be rather dull. Posing in front of a roomful of art students in uncomfortable positions for hours on end is not exactly glamorous. Be that as it may, you can still get an easy extra buck this way if you’re short on cash.
Building Portfolios for Aspiring Models
Models usually showcase their talent and strengths by including shots from their previous projects in their portfolio. However, if you’re starting fresh, chances are you don’t have any experience in the business. If this is the case, you must nail your first portfolio by including 12 to 16 professional shots alongside your biography, measurements, and contact info.
If you believe you can just ask a friend to take some photos of you, you can’t be more wrong. You need to hire a professional photographer who will know how to make the best possible shots and create the right lighting. Make sure to have all the basic, essential shots (such as full-body, half-length, and waist up) before you start posing for photos that will showcase your “it” factor. Select several well-fitting outfits and also include a swimsuit photo. Make sure that the background is simple (such as a plain white wall).
What Industries Have the Most Demand for Male Models?
As we’ve said, not many male models strut the famous Tom Ford suits and Calvin Klein underwear. Many don’t even work in the fashion industry as this is only one option and not necessarily the best one. However, if you’re hell-bent on this particular industry, you should know that emerging East Asian economies have created many job opportunities for young male models. That’s why many aspiring talents are flocking to Asia to try their luck in fashion. Be aware, though, that many of these young men are extremely overworked, far from home, and underpaid. If that concerns you, you should go for a non-fashion gig first.
As we’ve said, commercial modeling is the most popular. You’re likely to land a project in one of the following industries — tech, travel, household appliances, food, etc.
Part models could get featured in ads promoting watches, shoes, jewelry, and beauty products. On the other hand, if you’re more sporty, the fitness industry is always on the lookout for young, fit models to promote anything from athletic wear and exercise equipment to supplements.
How does the fitness industry cope up with the pandemic? Read more here
Last but not least, you can always be bold and start your career in the sex industry. You can be a model in porn or a cam boy. Whatever path you decide to walk, we wish you good luck!