Imagine you’re about to walk the runway in front of hundreds of people. You’ve fixed your hair about a hundred times backstage and the adrenaline finally kicks in as you step out from behind the curtain - but the excitement doesn’t last long. You have to wake up at 6:00am for your day job and rush out of the office by 5:00pm to make it to another modeling audition. Besides this show, you haven’t booked a modeling gig in three months and you’re struggling to balance your modeling career with your 9-5 yet again.
This is the reality for male models attempting to make their way into the modeling scene today - something Christian Savino, a local New Jersey resident, is all too familiar with.
Savino began an aspiring modeling career a few years ago after his family and friends encouraged him to get started. Although he was uncertain about where to begin, he eventually reached out to a local photographer and began building his own modeling portfolio.
“I remember doing my first photoshoot,” Savino reveals. “I got a lot of great content out of it and knew modeling was something I wanted to pursue. It was exciting.”
Although that photoshoot was a productive step forward, he couldn’t predict the ups and downs that come with pursuing a career in such a competitive industry. It was the beginning of an uphill battle that Savino is still navigating to this day.
“I’m still trying to learn the puzzle of modeling and working through the challenges that come with this career,” he explains. “It takes a while to establish your personal brand. I’m working on that.”
Savino didn’t find much success at first, but things began looking up for him in the fall of 2022 when he signed with Meredith Models, a modeling agency in New Jersey. He booked a few gigs with the agency, but they recently dropped him after not booking enough gigs - an unfortunate setback aspiring models need to prepare themselves for.
After being dropped by Meredith Models, Savino signed with MMG shortly after, a New York based modeling agency, and is constantly traveling in and out of the city in hopes to book his next job.
“I apply to new gigs on casting networks nearly every day and am constantly in touch with my modeling agency for more opportunities,” Savino says. “It’s not easy. Modeling is super competitive and there’s so much stress. It’s a very stressful occupation.”
Every day brings new opportunities and challenges in the modeling world, but you have to keep going if you want to find success. It’s a quick dash from your day job to the gym before heading home and sending dozens of headshots out. Savino is constantly searching for new work, although not every gig is paid and there are countless expenses such as wardrobe, travel, and agency dues.
“There are always expenses that you have to deal with as a model, so there’s pressure to make that money back,” he explains.
Savino tries to enhance his chances of being booked by focusing on the things he can control, such as his physique. “I work out a lot and eat very clean. Some of it is for overall health, but it’s also to stay in shape for potential gigs,” he explains. “There are things you simply can’t change though - like your height.”
Savino continues to work on balancing his focus on his day job and aspiring modeling career as he still dreams of becoming a full-time model.
“I am still trying to find my ideal career path and capitalize on the opportunities that come my way,” he says. “My long-term end goal is to be contracted with a well known brand like Hugo Boss or Calvin Klein.”
The life of an aspiring model is not all it appears to be, especially on social media. The truth is - they’re trying to get by just like everyone else.
To see more of Christian's portfolio or for collaboration/modeling inquiries, visit Christian on Instagram at christianmsavio.
Top Challenges for Aspiring Male Models:
- Height and Physique: The industry has specific height and body type requirements, creating a competitive barrier for some.
- Look and Image: Facing constant judgment on appearance, with trends and preferences evolving rapidly.
- Finding Representation: Securing a reputable agency for casting calls and jobs can be difficult.
- "Gatekeepers": Dealing with casting directors, stylists, and photographers who control access to opportunities.
- Unstable Income: Modeling careers can be sporadic, leading to financial insecurity and reliance on side hustles.
- Long Hours and Short Notice: Workdays can be long and unpredictable, requiring flexibility and adaptability.
- Rejection and Self-Doubt: Facing frequent rejection at castings can be emotionally draining and cause self-doubt.
- Building a Portfolio and Brand: Creating a strong portfolio and personal brand is crucial but takes time and resources.