Finding a model can be one of the more difficult steps of planning a photoshoot. You have to factor in availability, a specific look, location and even experience when it comes to selecting a model.
Canberra has a small modelling industry. This means that you have a smaller range of models to pick from, but it’s also easier to make calls out for models and reach them (especially if you know where to look). In this article, we’ll outline some of the best places to advertise and find professional models in Canberra.
Facebook Groups
Facebook groups are great if you need to find a model quickly without having to worry about the red tape of going through a modelling agency or trawling through listings on a large modelling platform. Modelling Facebook Groups are also great for finding a community if you’re looking to set up a mutually beneficial Time For Print (TFP) shoot to build your portfolio.
However, anyone can join these groups, which means you might have to look through a lot of responses to find someone with the right look for your shoot. You will also have to do your own vetting when it comes to a model’s experience and portfolio!
Canberra Model Portfolios
Canberra Model Portfolios is one of the most established Facebook groups out there for connecting models and photographers in Canberra, with a focus mainly on TFP shoots.
The group is public, has 2,300+ members, and has 10 posts in the past month – most of them with quite a lot of engagement.
Visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/384232491623723/
Canberra Photographers, Models And MUAs
This group is hugely active and has a combination of TFP, commercial models, and photographer callouts. It’s by far the place you’re most likely to get a quick response and a lot of interest when looking for a model. However, this means you have to sort through a lot of interest from models with varying levels of experience and skill to find the right fit.
Canberra photographers, models and MUAs is a private group with almost 5,000 members and an average of 15 posts a month.
Visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/6031964193/
Modelling Agencies
Modelling agencies are ideal if you’re looking for an experienced model who is comfortable in front of the camera and doesn’t need as much direction. Canberra has two fantastic modelling agencies, with a wide range of professional models experienced in both commercial and high fashion modelling.
Victoria’s Models
Victoria’s Models is the largest and longest-running modelling agency in Canberra. As of January 2024, they have just under 400 models, both male and female, of all ages They represent talent for fashion parades, television commercials, photographic work, promotions and event hosting.
To book a model through Victoria’s Models, send an email to [email protected]
Devojka Models
Devojka Models is a newer boutique agency founded in 2015, but they have already established itself in Canberra’s small industry with a range of experienced models and actors. Devojka Models has worked with large clients like Vogue Australia, Cartier, and the Canberra Centre.
To book a model through Devojka Models, send an email to [email protected]
Visit: https://devojka.com.au/
Modelling Platforms
Online modelling platforms often contain a wealth of beginner models and experienced models alike, looking to work on projects. Unlike the Facebook groups, you can often see important details like the model’s experience, compensation expectations, as well as measurements and height. The downside is that some of the sites require you to pay a subscription fee to browse listings or book models.
Starnow
Starnow is a worldwide website for connecting models, actors, photographers, and creatives. The advertisements on StarNow range from unpaid to TFP shoots to paid commercial shoots for Australia-wide campaigns.
You can either message models directly or post an ad. As of January 2024, there are 55 models listed in Starwow that have Canberra as their location.
Visit: https://www.starnow.com/talent/find-talent/models-for-hire/
Model Mayhem
Model Mayhem is a site that connects models with people who have both paid and unpaid work for them. You can browse model profiles on the platform and send them a message if they seem like the right fit. Experienced models will include references, past work examples, and sample images to help you make an informed decision.
There are currently 215 models listed as based in Canberra, but not all the profiles appear to be legitimate or active.
Visit: https://www.modelmayhem.com/browse/model/australia/australian-capital-territory/canberra
The Right Fit
The Right Fit is a platform founded in 2016 that connects brands with content creators, actors, and models. As someone looking for talent, you can use The Right Fit for free to book up to 3 jobs a month.
You also have the ability to narrow down the kind of model you’re looking for by keyword, ethnicity, height, experience, and location. Once you’ve found a model that suits your needs, you can send them a message to discuss the details of the shoot and compensation.
There are over 6500 talent listings in Australia on The Right Fit.
Visit: https://theright.fit/au