If you think modeling is only about runways and fashion magazines, think again. South Africa’s growing creative and commercial industries have opened the doors to many types of modeling jobs — and you don’t need to be signed to a big agency to get started.
Whether you’re tall, petite, curvy, athletic, or even just starting out, there’s space for every look and vibe.
Let’s break down the most popular types of modeling work available right now in South Africa — many of which you can find directly on Model Connect ZA.
👗 1. Fashion & Editorial Modeling
This is the classic type — modeling for fashion designers, magazines, or lookbooks.
Requirements:
- Usually tall (but not always)
- Strong posing skills
- Editorial expressions and body language
You’ll see:
- Clothing campaigns
- Local fashion shows
- Boutique catalogues
- Magazine-style photoshoots
💡 Tip: Keep a simple, clean look in your portfolio to attract fashion brands.
📸 2. Commercial Modeling
This is where everyday people are booked to appear in brand campaigns, billboards, TV ads, and websites.
You don’t need to be tall or “runway standard” — just have personality and versatility.
Examples:
- Ads for banks, food, retail stores, fitness gear
- Billboards and brand brochures
- Lifestyle shoots (e.g. “happy family”, “businesswoman”, “gym guy”)
🔥 Commercial gigs are usually well-paid and accessible to many.
🎬 3. TV, Music Video & Acting Roles
Music videos, commercials, and short films often cast models to play roles or appear on screen.
Roles include:
- Background talent
- Dancers
- “Lead love interest”
- Brand ambassadors in video shoots
You’ll need:
- Confidence on camera
- Good movement and basic acting
- A strong personality and expressions
🎥 Model Connect ZA often posts casting calls for these roles, especially for local music videos and influencer campaigns.
🧴 4. Beauty & Hair Modeling
This is for makeup brands, salons, beauty pages, and skincare companies. These jobs focus on face, hair, or skin close-ups.
Who it suits:
- People with clear skin or interesting features
- Models confident with minimal makeup
- Diverse hair types (natural hair is in demand!)
Often seen in:
- Skincare or makeup product shoots
- Hairdresser or salon portfolios
- Beauty campaign videos
🧍 5. Plus Size & Curve Modeling
South Africa is celebrating body diversity more than ever. Plus-size, curve, and full-figured models are highly sought after by:
- Clothing brands with inclusive sizing
- Lifestyle and body-positive campaigns
- Commercial/TV ads
If you’ve got curves, confidence, and camera presence, this category is for you.
👟 6. Fitness & Sports Modeling
Fitness models are featured in ads for gyms, supplements, athletic brands, and health content.
Requirements:
- Toned or athletic body
- Energy and movement on camera
- Healthy lifestyle representation
🏋️ You might model gym gear, yoga poses, or sporty lifestyle scenes.
✋ 7. Parts Modeling (Hands, Feet, etc.)
Yes — there are paid jobs for people with beautiful hands, feet, lips, or eyes.
Parts modeling is used in:
- Jewelry shoots
- Shoe ads
- Skincare close-ups
- Makeup promotions
This niche doesn’t always require full-body shoots, just great care of the body part being featured.
🧍♀️ 8. Runway Modeling
Runway is where you strut for designers in live fashion shows. These gigs are less common but happen at events, fashion weeks, and product launches.
Requirements:
- Typically tall (over 170cm for women)
- Walk with poise and confidence
- Slim, proportionate figure (varies by event)
📲 9. Influencer & UGC Modeling (User-Generated Content)
If you have an active social media following, brands may book you to wear or review products on Instagram or TikTok.
You’ll need:
- A consistent aesthetic
- Content creation skills (selfies, reels, reviews)
- Good engagement with your followers
🌟 These gigs often include free products + payment for promoting.
📌 Final Thoughts
There’s no single path in modeling anymore. South Africa’s modeling industry is now inclusive, diverse, and digital-friendly. Whether you’re 18 or 38, size 4 or 14, introverted or outgoing — there’s a job category that fits you.
And the best part? You don’t need an agency to get started.
🚀 Start Your Modeling Journey Today
Create your free profile at ModelConnectZA.com and start applying for jobs that suit your style, your body, and your confidence.
Modeling isn’t about perfection — it’s about expression. Your time is now.