How to Become a Maternity Model

Pregnancy is such a beautiful time in your life, why wouldn't you want to celebrate your baby bump. Becoming a maternity model can give a much needed boost to your income and a fun way to celebrate your new curves.
The modeling industry is not an easy industry to break into, but with an increased demand for pregnant models now might just be the perfect time for you to launch your modeling career.

Things You'll Need

• Professional Portfolio

Instructions

1. Investigate local photography studios to find out if they have enough experience to put together a maternity portfolio for you. Studios often show their portraits online so you can see their work and analyze it before calling.

2. Arrive at your photo shoot with a wide variety of maternity wear. Make sure that the photographer is clear on the fact that you are creating a portfolio to become a maternity model. You will need a few head shots, but the majority of your photos should emphasize you newly expanding figure. Make sure to get digital copies of these modeling shots as you may want to create a website featuring your shots.

3. Mail off your best photographs to local modeling agencies that are accepting maternity models. Send the shots with your modeling resume if you have one, or with a cover letter introducing yourself and your intentions. Now is not the time to be shy, promote yourself to as many agencies as you can.

4. Enter any maternity modeling contests sponsored by clothing manufacturers. You will occasionally see best belly contests in Parents.com or Due Maternity sponsoring a modeling contest. If it is a company you have heard of enter the contest. If it is a company that you have never heard of and sounds suspect, bypass that contest.

5. Send out your resume and best photographs to national modeling agencies who specialize in maternity models such as expecting models. You can send your photographs directly to the clothing manufacturer. Chances of getting a response directly from the manufacturer are slim, but it's worth a shot.

6. Create a website of your maternity photos and send the link to modeling agencies and other photographers with a note announcing your intentions and asking for their thoughts and ideas.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not be shy. Work with a professional photographer, but interview the photographer before you hire him to make sure he has maternity experience. Ask the photographers advice.

• Never pay an agency to represent you.

Resources

• Expecting Models
• Runway Moms
• Model Scouts