Promotional image of The Glow Up Guide by Jerrbul, designed to help aspiring models start their careers. The cover features a minimalist design with a silhouetted black mannequin figure standing within a puzzle piece cutout. The title “THE GLOW UP GUIDE” is displayed in a soft brown rounded box, with the tagline below: “Step into your glow and take your first steps into the modeling world.” The background is light with soft shadows, and above the book it says, “START YOUR MODELING CAREER.” Below the cover reads, “FREE DOWNLOAD.”

Glow up Guide

Resources| Model Resources
April 04, 2025•3 min read

What is The Glow Up Guide by Jerrbul?

The Glow Up Guide is a free resource created by model, mentor, and creative director Jerrbul. It's designed for new and aspiring models who want to learn how to break into the industry with purpose. This guide walks you through four core steps: Choosing your modeling niche, Building your first portfolio, Developing essential modeling skills, Preparing to sign with the right agency. Whether you want to model for beauty, fashion, fitness, or commercial campaigns-this guide helps you figure out what's right for you.

How Do I Start Building My Modeling Portfolio?

Building your portfolio is one of the most important steps in your modeling journey. Here's how to begin:
- Book 3-5 test shoots with photographers open to TFP (Time for Print) arrangements.
- Use hashtags like #TFPModel, #TestShoot, or #TFPCollab to find photographers on Instagram.

- Check platforms like Model Mayhem or local Facebook groups.
- Aim for variety: Include clean headshots, full-body shots, lifestyle photos, and beauty portraits. - Always vet photographers: Check their portfolios and references before collaborating.

Portrait of Dana Abruzzo (@Danaabruzzo) wearing a fitted red top with a square neckline. She has long, light brown curly hair cascading over her shoulder, natural makeup with defined lashes, and soft red lipstick. She wears a delicate gold necklace with small pearls. The background is a neutral grey, and the lighting is soft and flattering, creating a professional and polished look.

Model Credit: @Danaabruzzo

What Should I Include in My First Modeling Portfolio?

Focus on clean, natural looks that highlight your features and versatility: - A headshot with minimal makeup
- A full-body image in flattering, fitted clothing
- A profile shot (side view of your face)

- A lifestyle or candid photo that shows your personality
- A beauty shot (close-up of your face or skincare focus)
Avoid over-styling, heavy edits, or distracting filters. Agencies want to see the real you.

Close-up portrait of Grace Funk (@grace_funkk) photographed by @CJsandernyc. She has sleek, straight blonde hair framing her face and wears soft, natural makeup with a focus on flawless skin, defined brows, winged eyeliner, and nude-pink lips. Her head is tilted slightly back, giving a confident and serene expression. The lighting is bright and clean, set against a plain white background, highlighting the smooth texture of her skin.

Photo Credit: @Cjsandernyc

Model Credit: @Grace_funkk

What's the First Step to Becoming a Model?

Before you book your first shoot, it's important to understand the modeling industry and your place in it:
- Research modeling types: Fashion, Commercial, Beauty, Fitness, Lifestyle, Plus-Size
- Match your look to your niche: Consider your height, body type, and features

- Reflect on your interests
- Study successful models
- Take a personality quiz to find your fit

How Do I Practice My Modeling Skills?

Modeling is a skill. The more you practice, the more natural you'll become in front of the camera. Practice regularly:
- Posing: Study editorial images and try poses
- Runway walk: Record yourself walking and refine posture

- Facial expressions: Practice conveying emotions - Camera awareness: Learn your best angles

Editorial portrait of Jerrbul seated confidently on a wooden chair in a moody, dimly lit space with vintage tiled walls. He wears a silver metallic outfit featuring a crop top and matching pants, paired with a textured faux fur coat and chunky platform boots. His hair is styled in twisted bantu knots, and his relaxed, commanding pose exudes individuality and high-fashion edge. Green plants frame the composition, enhancing the raw, artistic atmosphere.

Modelo: @jerrbul
Foto: @alain.amateco
Asistente de foto: @marielle_valencia
MUAH: @alberttomakeup
Styling: @elpoderosodave
Locación: @nimbostudiomx
Agencia: @crom.agency

How Can I Get Signed to a Modeling Agency?

When you're ready to submit to an agency, follow these steps: - Research 3-5 reputable agencies
- Submit digitals: Headshot, full body, and side profile
- Follow submission guidelines

- Avoid agencies asking for upfront fees - Follow up after 2-3 weeks

What Types of Modeling Can I Explore?

There's more than one way to be a successful model: - Fashion: Editorial and runway
- Commercial: Lifestyle ads
- Fitness: Health products

- Beauty: Skincare and makeup
- Plus-Size: Inclusive campaigns
- Lifestyle: Real-world, relatable content

Is Height Still a Requirement to Model?

Not necessarily! Modeling is more inclusive now:
- Runway: Still prefers taller models
- Commercial, beauty, and fitness welcome all heights - Unique looks and confidence are now highly valued

Final Thoughts: Why The Glow Up Guide Is a Must-Have

This isn't just another modeling checklist-it's a step-by-step starter kit for becoming the kind of model brands remember. Start with purpose and direction.

Download The Glow Up Guide by Jerrbul

Start your modeling journey with confidence. Download the full guide at www.jerrbul.com/modelresources

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