“Am I too young?”
“Too short?”
“Is it too late for me?”
If these questions have ever echoed in your thoughts, you’re not alone.
At Choice Model Management, we hear them every day, from teenagers, parents, even adults wondering if their dream is still within reach. So let’s set the record straight: there’s no single “perfect age” to start modelling in the UK. The truth is a little more human than that.
Let’s break it down.
🌱 The Most Common Starting Ages and Why They’re Not the Whole Story
It’s true that many models start between 13 and 16. Why? Because this is when many agencies begin scouting for fresh faces. It’s a phase of natural curiosity, personal expression, and a chance to grow with the industry.
But what they don’t often tell you is that modelling isn’t one path, it’s many.
– Child models can begin as early as 4 or 5 for commercial and catalogue work.
– Teen models are often introduced to editorial, e-commerce, and beauty work.
– Adults (yes, even those in their 30s, 40s, 50s+) are in increasing demand for lifestyle campaigns, inclusive fashion, and mature brands.
In other words—it’s never really “too early” or “too late.”
📏 “But I’m Not Tall or Thin Enough…”
Let’s talk about one of the hardest things young people struggle with: body image.
So many aspiring models write to us worrying they don’t match the stereotypes:
“I’m only 5’2”—can I still model?”
“I’m curvy. Will I be rejected?”
Here’s the truth: the UK fashion and media landscape is changing.
Yes, some parts of high fashion still expect height. But commercial modelling, beauty, fitness, catalogue, social campaigns, and influencer-driven work are all looking for something else: real people who reflect real audiences.
There is space for:
– Petite models
– Plus-size and curve models
– Diverse ethnic backgrounds
– Models with visible differences
– Older models
Confidence, personality, and presence are often more valuable than inches.
🌍 If You Don’t See Yourself in the Industry, That’s Exactly Why You’re Needed
One of the most powerful movements in modelling right now is inclusion.
Still, it’s normal to feel unseen, especially if you’re South Asian, Black British, mixed heritage, or from underrepresented groups.
But we promise you this: your identity is not a barrier, it’s your strength.
Brands in the UK are waking up to the fact that diversity isn’t a trend, it’s the future. If you’ve grown up not seeing yourself in the media, then maybe you’re the one who’s meant to change that.
🚪 How Do I Even Get Started?
Here’s where many give up, not because they aren’t good enough, but because they don’t know where to begin.
Here’s how to start, the right way:
1. Take natural photos (headshot + full-length in natural light, no filters!).
2.Do your research: choose reputable UK agencies (like us, we’re here to guide).
3. Keep your parents involved: if you’re under 18, they’ll be your best support system.
4. Be patient: rejections happen, but so do breakthroughs.
💬 Final Words: From Dreams to Doors Opening
There’s a lot of noise out there. A lot of pressure. And even more self-doubt.
But here’s something we’ve seen time and time again:
The model who makes it isn’t always the tallest. Or the thinnest. Or the most perfect.
It’s the one who shows up, over and over again.
The one who says, “I’m here. I’m ready. Let’s go.”
So whether you’re 12 or 42, in Manchester or Brighton, wondering if your height, your skin tone, your story makes you “not right”—stop.
You’re not too late. You’re not too different.
You’re just getting started.
Ready to take the first step?
At Choice Model Management, we support new faces, late bloomers, and everyone in between. If you’re UK-based and serious about stepping into the industry, we’re here to help you start the right way.
Because modelling shouldn’t be about fitting in.
It should be about standing out