How to Become a Model — Interview on The Becky in Boca Show
Lloyd's Studio joined The Becky in Boca radio show to talk swimwear shoots, portfolio building, and the real path new models take to get signed.
We sat down with The Becky in Boca radio show to answer the question we get every week at the studio: how do I become a model?
Step one: a real portfolio, not phone selfies
Agencies scan hundreds of submissions a week. What separates a callback from the reject pile is a portfolio with clean lighting, real range (headshot, full-length, editorial, swim/fitness), and a comp card that shows measurements without flattery.
Step two: shoot for the market you actually want
South Florida is a swim, fitness, and lifestyle market. If that's where you want to work, your portfolio should look like the campaigns brands are already running here — not like a Milan runway book.
Step three: submit strategically
Pick 5–10 reputable agencies, follow their submission guidelines exactly, and don't chase every "scout" that DMs you. Legit agencies never charge upfront fees.
What agencies want to see: digitals vs. portfolio images
Most agencies ask for simple "digitals" first — natural, lightly styled photos against a plain background showing your face, profile, and full-length shape. A polished portfolio then shows how you look in real campaign-style work. Having both ready makes your submission look prepared and professional.
How to prepare for a modeling photo-shoot
Arrive rested and hydrated, with clean, unstyled hair and nails unless your look calls for something specific. Bring fitted basics (black, white, and denim), a swim or fitness look if that's your market, and one or two outfits that show your personality. Plan your looks with the photographer before the day so every change has a purpose.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need professional photos to get signed? Not always for the very first submission, but clean, well-lit images make agencies take you seriously and are essential once you start booking work.
Is South Florida a good place to start modeling? Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami have a busy swimwear, fitness, lifestyle, and commercial market, so local new faces have real opportunities when their book matches that work.
Book your modeling portfolio session
Our model & talent sessions give you a full range of looks in one visit — headshot, full-length, editorial, and swim — plus a comp card ready to submit. Need a strong headshot too? See our professional headshots, or read about photographing Ariana Grande's early talent images.
An appointment is always required. Contact Lloyd's Studio Photography in Boca Raton to plan your session.