What my job includes besides standing and being pretty in front of the camera

The Hidden Work of Being an Art Model

Today I want to talk about all the hidden work that models do — particularly art models, as I’m part of a community of traveling freelance professionals who mostly work non-commercially and run our careers as one-person businesses.

1. Maintaining the Look

This is actually the least time-consuming part of the job, even though it might seem like the most obvious.

Over time, the routine becomes a lifestyle. For me, it’s one of the most rewarding parts — having the knowledge of a healthy lifestyle and simple self-care.

My routine includes:

• At least a 1-hour walk every day

• 3–5 workouts per week (any kind)

• Healthy food choices

• Sauna

• Self-massage

• Psychotherapy (because being a solo-traveling woman in a field with sexual undertones can be emotionally draining at times)

2. Administrative Work

This is probably the most important — and most time-consuming — part of modeling.

It includes:

• Managing online portfolios across multiple platforms

• Updating travel information

• Replying to messages

• Keeping a database of contacts in each city/country

• Discussing potential shoots

• Doing background checks on first-time clients (safety is key)

• Handling paperwork (model releases, invoices, work policies, moodboards)

• Organizing transportation between cities and commutes between shoots

• Booking accommodations

• Receiving deposits

• Tracking income and expenses

3. Social Media

Closely related to admin work, but big enough to deserve its own category.

Tasks include:

• Managing platforms that attract new clients and followers

• Deciding what parts of the modeling portfolio can become content

• Creating tailored content for each platform:

  • Planning

  • Recording videos

  • Taking photos & behind-the-scenes shots

  • Editing

  • Storytelling

  • Marketing & networking

4. Networking

Networking is important both online and in person.

Models are constantly looking for new people to collaborate with:

• Fellow models for duo shoots

• Stylists

• Makeup artists

• Other creatives

An experienced model becomes a “database” of people who can be part of projects at any level. And of course, it’s important to stay in touch more often than once a decade!

5. Education & Self-Development

Even though modeling relies heavily on appearance, there’s a lot of room for growth in skills and knowledge.

• Learning photography basics (light, technology, composition, color theory, editing)

• Building a visual library of great art — photos, paintings, sculptures, dance, cinema

• Drawing inspiration from different art forms to develop new ideas and a unique style

6. Physical Development

Looking attractive is one thing, but being graceful, strong, flexible, and energetic is another.
This side of the work can always be improved — and it makes all the difference in how a model performs in front of the camera.

7. Logistics and Risk Management

• Keeping track on visa requirements, and border controls

• Insurance, healthcare

• safety protocols (background checks, keeping friends updated about locations, travel plans, and having an emergency contact).

8. Creative direction

Some people come to a shoot with a clear vision, other needs help. So then models provide:

• Suggesting poses, concepts, mood boards or themes.

• Styling themselves (choosing wardrobe, props, makeup when no team is provided).

• Helping photographers or artists troubleshoot creative/technical issues during a shoot.

9. Emotional labor

• Dealing with language barriers, cultural differences, or constant re-adjustments in new places. Being separated from friends and family for extended periods of time.

• Holding emotional space for clients/artists/photographers, some of whom may project their own insecurities or ideas onto the model.

• Boundary-setting and communication (clear "no’s," negotiating comfort levels, staying professional under potentially awkward or vulnerable circumstances).

That being said, the skill set I’ve gained from modeling alone feels nearly endless. So I don’t worry much about switching careers (as it is one of the most often asked questions) — for myself or my colleagues — because modeling quietly prepares us with a breadth of skills that few other professions can offer.

Photo by James Wigger