Using attractive folk to sell a product is one of the oldest tricks in the book. Like it or not, we’re shallow creatures and respond well to beauty. The good news is that it is also one of the most simple marketing techniques out there:
Pretty Face + Product = Sale
If you think your business would benefit from this tactic then you’ll have to find yourself a good looking person and (unless you hold regular auditions to cast beautiful girls and boys as your friends) then that means hiring a model, spending time and money.
Why should we hire a model?
Having great images that promote your garments is no longer optional. Online content is heavily visual, posts with relevant images get 94% more views than those without. Simply put, you’ll need to have top-notch images if you want your brand to stand out.
How much does hiring a model cost?
Typically, models charge somewhere in the $30-$50 range per hour. Like with most creative professions, the price really depends on how experienced the person is and how in-demand they are. While you’ll hardly get Kate Moss for this price range, you’ll probably still get somebody professional who knows how to strike a decent pose.
You can get some models who will agree to work for free, as long as you give them the images for their portfolio afterwards. This can be a great deal if you find some up-and-coming talent, but of course, other times you get what you pay for. Also, without any incentive to go, you may very well get a no-show on the day of the shoot. Have a backup plan ready to go!
How can I hire a model?
As there are all types of listings, there are also all kinds of modelling agencies. Some feature hundreds of models, while others only offer a handful. Fees also vary greatly, so make sure you know what you can offer from the start so you don’t waste anybody’s time.
There are a few big websites that are specifically for hiring models. These are listings where anyone, and we do mean anyone (the good and the bad), can sell their services. You can find all types of models going from athletic to plus-sized and professionals to amateurs. It may take a while to find the right person, but chances are you’ll find someone more affordable than if you go through an agency.
That should get you started as you think about how you might want to work with a model for your T-shirt brand. Investing in a good model and a good photographer can be a really smart move for your brand, and it can pay off. But that’s exactly the reason you shouldn’t rush the decision. Take some time to get just the right fit, and you’re more likely to end up with results that are exactly what you were looking for.
