How to become a model even if you're short: 3 tips for modeling despite not being tall

Many Vietnamese people think that to be a model, you must be 1m70 or taller, but in reality, over 60% of modeling jobs today do not require standard runway height. Photo models, commercial models, or social media models all prioritize face, charisma, and personality, not height.

If you are petite but love fashion and want to know how to become a model even if you're not tall, this article will help you understand: where to start, which direction is suitable, and how to increase your chances of being signed by an agency. The content focuses on practical, easy-to-apply solutions, helping you leverage your strengths instead of chasing unnecessary standards.

Tip 1: How to promote yourself to become a model

Step 1: How to find a suitable photographer for model shoots

Connect with professional photographers from the start
To start a modeling career, especially for those who are petite or new to the industry, collaborating with the right photographer will help you build a reliable foundational portfolio.

• Prioritize photographers who specialize in model headshots

  • Experienced in working with new models

  • Understands facial angles, lighting, and suitable expressions for each face

  • Knows how to highlight physical advantages, irrespective of height

• Choose someone who can assist with basic makeup

  • Standard model headshots only need light, natural makeup

  • Avoid heavy makeup that distorts the true face

  • Correct makeup helps agencies accurately assess potential

Where to find effective model photographers
Finding the right way helps you save time and money, while increasing your chances of getting photos that meet agency standards.

• Search online with relevant keywords

  • “model headshot photographer”

  • “photographer for new models”

  • “model portfolio photography in [area]”

• Carefully review portfolios

  • Prioritize natural photos with minimal over-editing

  • Check if they have experience shooting petite models, commercial models, or lifestyle models

Leverage connections from agencies or training classes
If you are in contact with an agency or attending a modeling course, this is a very practical source of connections.

• Agencies often recommend photographers

  • Understand recruitment criteria

  • Shoot in the format required by the agency

• Reduces the risk of encountering inexperienced photographers

• Increases the likelihood of your portfolio being accepted when submitted

Step 2: Headshot photography costs to be aware of

Be prepared to pay for quality headshots
Headshots are a mandatory investment if you are serious about a modeling career, even if you are not tall or just starting out.

• Models need to cover photography costs themselves

  • Good photographers don't work for free

  • Headshots are your "entry ticket" when submitting to agencies

• This is a rather sensitive psychological step

  • You have to stand in front of the camera and be directly judged

  • Modeling is a job that requires confidence and openness

• Always choose the highest quality within your financial means

  • A good set of photos can be used for a long time

  • Avoid multiple cheap shoots that don't meet standards

Prioritize packages that include makeup support
Correct makeup helps agencies see your true potential, without being "deceived" by filters or excessive editing.

• Light, natural makeup

• Clarifies facial features

• Doesn't cover imperfections excessively

• Ideally, the photographer or agency has an accompanying makeup artist

What a professional headshot process usually involves
Understanding the process beforehand helps you feel more at ease and proactive during the shoot.

• The photographer will take many photos in one session

  • Usually from dozens to almost 100 shots

  • Varying angles, lighting, expressions

• After the shoot, there will be a photo selection step

  • The photographer advises on the most suitable photos to use

  • You don't need to guess which photos are "agency-standard"

Outdoor or studio headshots are both acceptable
Neither option is absolutely better; what matters is the photographer's experience.

• Outdoor shoots

  • Natural light

  • Suitable for commercial, lifestyle models

• Studio shoots

  • Controlled lighting

  • Common for agency submissions

• Both are effective if

  • The photographer understands model recruitment criteria

  • Knows how to highlight the face rather than height

Step 3: How to find a suitable modeling agency when you're just starting out

Research modeling agencies realistically
Choosing the right agency helps you save time, money, and avoid going in the wrong direction, especially when pursuing a modeling career despite being petite.

• Ask acquaintances in the modeling industry

  • Friends, former students, people who have done model shoots

  • Ask about reputation, working methods, and real opportunities

• If you don't have connections, search online yourself

  • Search for “modeling agency in [area]”

  • Prioritize agencies with clear websites and transparent information

  • Check if they are recruiting fashion models, photo models, or commercial models

Prioritize agencies close to where you live
Distance directly affects your ability to sustain a long-term career.

• You should choose an agency

  • Less than 1 hour travel

  • Convenient for castings, fittings, photoshoots

• Avoid choosing an agency too far if

  • You are still studying or working

  • Your travel budget is limited

If the agency is far away, ask yourself your goals
In many cases, the most suitable agency may not be close to you.

• If the nearest agency is 1-2 hours away

  • Consider your level of seriousness about the profession

  • Calculate costs, time, and endurance

• If you truly want to pursue it

  • Distance is not a barrier

  • Many successful models started by traveling far every week

Leverage connections from photographers
This is a very practical path that many newcomers often overlook.

• Photographers often have contacts with agencies

  • Because they work directly with models and recruiters

• Some agencies

  • Review photographers' headshot portfolios

  • Look for models urgently when a suitable job arises

• Photos taken by photographers known by agencies

  • Are more likely to be trusted

  • Increase the chance of your application being seriously considered

Step 4: How to contact a modeling agency correctly

Proactively contact modeling agencies directly
Once you have standard headshots, the next step is to approach agencies seriously and professionally.

• If convenient, go directly to the agency's office

  • Bring printed headshots or have digital copies ready

  • Make an impression with neatness and confidence

  • Always be ready to listen to feedback, even if it's not the answer you want

• Meeting directly helps the agency

  • Assess their face and aura in person

  • See their actual potential, not just through photos

Email multiple suitable agencies
In parallel with in-person meetings, emailing is an effective way to broaden opportunities.

• Only choose agencies with suitable orientations

  • Photo models, commercial models, parts modeling

  • Agencies open to various body types, not overly focused on height

• Each email needs to be clear and professional

  • Attach high-quality headshots

  • Do not send blurry links or heavily edited photos

• Email content should be concise and to the point

  • Introduce yourself

  • State your desire to collaborate

  • Show seriousness about the profession

Attach relevant information to increase credibility
Agencies appreciate profiles that demonstrate a clear foundation or a willingness to learn.

• Include if applicable

  • Experience in photo modeling, advertising

  • Participation in acting, stage, theater, fashion

• If you have no experience yet

  • No need to lie

  • You can emphasize having learned posing, expressions, and working in front of the camera

Contacting multiple agencies is completely normal
Submitting your portfolio to multiple places is not a lack of seriousness, but a practical strategy.

• Each agency has different criteria and needs

• Being rejected by one place does not mean you are unsuitable for another

• Professional models always proactively seek opportunities

Don't let height deter you
In the modeling profession, the first determining factor is still image and visual perception.

• Many agencies are more flexible than you think

• Good, standard photos help you overcome height barriers

• Focus on building a suitable image rather than worrying about numbers

Step 5: Create a professional online model profile for agencies

Build an online model portfolio as early as possible
An online portfolio is where agencies and brands look for models every day, especially suitable for those looking for how to become a model even if short.

• Many platforms operate as model databases

  • Direct connection between models and businesses

  • Suitable for beginners, photo models, commercial models

• Most can register for free

  • No extensive experience needed

  • No standard runway height required

Prepare basic information when creating a profile
Agencies only need clear data to quickly assess suitability.

• Modeling goals

  • Photo models, commercial models, trade models, parts modeling

• Honest physical information

  • Height, basic measurements, body proportions

  • Face, style suitable for which jobs

• Clear headshots

  • Minimal editing

  • Show your true face

Always be honest about height and body proportions
Many newcomers worry that being honest about their height will limit opportunities, but the opposite is true.

• Agencies value transparency

• Helps them

  • Match you with the right job

  • Avoid wasting time re-screening

• Today's modeling market

  • Has a demand for many different body types

  • Doesn't just recruit tall, runway-standard individuals

Leverage reputable platforms to build trust
A well-placed profile will be taken more seriously.

• Model Management

  • Easy-to-use interface

  • Followed by many international and commercial agencies

  • Offers many useful resources for beginners

Step 6: Should you move to a big city to become a model?

Understand the role of big cities in the modeling industry
Big cities are always centers of the modeling industry due to the concentration of agencies, brands, and casting opportunities.

• This is where

  • Many model castings take place

  • There are many photo, commercial, and trade modeling jobs

  • It's easy to meet reputable photographers and agencies

• If there's a "big opportunity," it will likely appear in this environment

It's not mandatory to move to a very distant city
You don't need to move directly to Los Angeles or New York City to start your career.

• Big cities increase opportunities but

  • They don't 100% determine whether you can be a model or not

• For beginners or shorter individuals, the commercial modeling market in moderately sized cities still holds great potential

If you live in a small area, find the nearest city
The realistic strategy is to move step by step, without being too extreme.

• If you are in a small town or rural area

  • Research the nearest major city

  • Where there are agencies, studios, advertising activities

• For example

  • Living in Carbondale

  • You might consider moving to St. Louis or Chicago

Distance is a challenge, not a barrier
Traveling far helps you assess your seriousness about the profession.

• If the nearest agency is 1-2 hours away

  • Consider the time, cost, and your daily schedule

• If you truly want to pursue it

  • Distance is just a test of perseverance

  • Many models start by traveling far for castings

Step 7: Take all modeling jobs when starting out

Prioritize gaining experience over being picky
In the early stages, the most important thing is to get real jobs to build your portfolio and understand the industry from within.

• You should accept most modeling jobs

  • As long as they don't go against your personal values

  • No need for big jobs, just valid and legal ones

• Practical experience helps

  • Build a thicker portfolio

  • Gain more trust from agencies and future clients

• Casting directors often prefer individuals who

  • Have work experience

  • Understand the discipline, timing, and demands of the modeling profession

Start with parts modeling to get a foot in the door easily
Parts modeling is a very practical path for those who are short or new to the industry.

• Focus on a specific body part

  • Hands, palms, fingers

  • Legs, feet

  • Lips, hair, back

• Advantages

  • No height requirement

  • Less competitive than full-body models

  • High demand in cosmetics, jewelry, and consumer product advertising

Catalog modeling is a popular and sustainable choice
Catalog modeling is booming as the market changes.

• Catalogs need

  • Models of diverse body types

  • Approachable, everyday faces

• Suitable for

  • Commercial models

  • Shorter individuals with harmonious body proportions

• Advantages

  • Consistent jobs

  • Stable income

  • Easily recommended by agencies for long-term work

Height doesn't determine professionalism
The modeling industry has long proven this.

• Shorter models can still get signed

• What matters is

  • Market-appropriate image

  • Knowing how to choose the right niche

• Typical case

  • Kate Moss

    • 7.6 cm shorter than runway standards

    • Still signed in New York

    • Became an international fashion icon

Tip 2: Tips for creating an attractive model profile for recruiters

Step 1: Choose the right modeling direction if you're not tall

Identify the right type of modeling you want to pursue
Not all modeling jobs require runway-standard height. In fact, there are many avenues suitable for shorter individuals, easy to start, and with stable demand.

• Choosing the right type helps you

  • Build a focused portfolio

  • Avoid wasting time applying for the wrong niche

  • Increase your chances of being chosen by agencies and brands

Types of modeling suitable for shorter individuals
When preparing your portfolio, consider one or a few of these directions, instead of trying to do everything.

• Editorial model (magazine photos)

  • Focus on face, expressions, concept

  • Less dependent on absolute height

  • Suitable for those with clear charisma and personality

• Commercial print model

  • Photography for product and service advertisements

  • Prioritizes approachable, everyday images

  • A popular choice for newcomers

• Catalog model

  • Photography for fashion catalogs

  • The market increasingly needs diverse body types

  • Suitable for shorter individuals with harmonious body proportions

• Plus-size model

  • Does not require a skinny, runway-standard physique

  • Focuses on confidence and demeanor

  • High demand in advertising and retail

• Glamour model

  • Emphasizes sensual beauty, physique

  • Needs clear personal boundaries before pursuing

  • Suitable for certain markets

• Parts modeling

  • Only hands, feet, lips, hair, or back are photographed

  • No height requirement

  • Easier to start and less competitive

• TV commercials

  • Prioritizes natural appearance that is easy to like

  • Height is not a deciding factor

  • Can be combined with basic acting

• Real-life models, TV/film extras

  • Appear in films, TV shows

  • Requires flexibility and a good work ethic

  • A stepping stone to familiarizing oneself with a professional environment

Build your portfolio according to your chosen direction
Instead of trying to do everything, focus.

• Choose 1-2 most suitable types

• Prepare photos in the right style for that job

• Clearly show which market you fit into

Step 2: How to build a model portfolio for shorter individuals

Prepare a sufficient and appropriate number of photos
For beginners, a portfolio doesn't need to be extensive, but it needs to be accurate and selective.

• Should have 5–8 photos

• Each photo must have a clear purpose

• Avoid stuffing too many similar photos, which dilutes the profile

Showcase your range of modeling abilities
A good portfolio isn't about the best photos, but photos that show you can handle various types of work.

• Choose photos that show

  • Different expressions

  • Diverse styles: gentle, bold, commercial

• Helps agencies assess

  • What type of model you are suitable for

  • Whether you can be used for multiple jobs

Work with different photographers
A diversity of perspectives makes a portfolio more professional.

• If you've already shot with one photographer

  • Proactively collaborate with others

• Each photographer brings

  • Different lighting

  • Different ways of expression

• This shows that you are

  • Easy to work with

  • Adapt well to a professional environment

Understand the advantage of photos in "hiding height"
Photographs rarely show exact height if the composition is well-controlled.

• Avoid standing next to

  • People much taller than you

  • Objects that easily create a sense of scale comparison

• Prioritize photos

  • Half-body shots

  • Neutral camera angles

• This is a big advantage when pursuing how to be a model even if you're short

Portray different "characters" through outfits and makeup
Agencies are always looking for models who can transform.

• Try various styles

  • Casual wear

  • Minimalist fashion

  • Bold or commercial style

• Slightly change makeup

  • No need to be too heavy

  • Still retain your true face

Don't discard black and white photos if they're truly good
Quality is more important than color.

• If you have black and white photos

  • Good composition

  • Distinct emotion

• You can definitely include them in your portfolio

• Distinct photos in the right places help you

  • More memorable

  • Create an impression during a quick agency review

Step 3: How to make your model portfolio stand out

Refer to learn presentation, not to copy
Reviewing online model portfolios helps you understand industry standards and identify gaps to create your unique identity.

• Refer to how to

  • Arrange photos

  • Presentation style

  • Types of photos agencies often notice

• Do not imitate exactly

  • Because agencies see many similar portfolios every day

  • What they need are models with unique identities

Selectively incorporate your true personality into your portfolio
A high-quality personal photo can help you be remembered longer.

• You can add photos related to your hobbies

  • Cooking

  • Painting

  • Playing musical instruments

  • Light sports

• Photos need to be

  • Well-shot

  • Well-lit

  • Appropriately dressed for the setting

• Example

  • If you love cooking, a natural photo in a tidy kitchen will create a good impression

Maintain a balance between professional and personal photos
A portfolio is still a professional tool, not a personal album.

• Should include

  • Full headshots, commercial photos, and photos showing expressions

• Can add

  • 1–2 selected personal photos

• Avoid

  • Candid shots

  • Selfies

  • Overly casual or lacking context photos

Emphasize strengths not dependent on height
Height is not the only factor agencies look for.

• Highlight

  • Facial expression ability

  • Diverse emotional range

  • Presence in front of the camera

• These skills

  • Are applicable to many types of modeling

  • Make agencies focus less on height figures

Personalized photos sometimes make a big difference
During a quick selection process, agencies often remember portfolios with a story.

• Personalized photos help

  • Portfolios not blend in

  • Viewers remember you longer

• This is especially beneficial for those pursuing

  • How to be a model despite being short

Step 4: Prepare a professional printed model portfolio

Present information as a complete portfolio
In addition to an online portfolio, a printed portfolio is still very important when meeting agencies in person, especially in major markets.

• Print photos with high quality

  • Sharp photos, true colors

  • No blurry, pixelated, or overly edited prints

• Common photo sizes

  • 8x10 inches or 8.5x11 inches are widely accepted standards

  • Some agencies require smaller or larger sizes, such as 9x12 inches

• Before printing

  • You should check the specific requirements of each agency

  • Avoid printing the wrong size to prevent waste

The first page needs to have complete basic information
This page helps agencies quickly understand who you are and if you're suitable in just a few seconds.

• Clear personal information

  • Full name

  • Current residential address (area, city)

  • Phone number and email contact

• Brief introduction about yourself

  • What type of modeling you are pursuing

  • Short and medium-term career goals

  • Present concisely, not long-winded

• Industry-related skills

  • Foreign languages

  • Acting

  • Singing, dancing, performing

  • Skills that make you more flexible when taking jobs

Keep the portfolio tidy and easy to view
Agencies often review many portfolios in a short time.

• Arrange photos in a logical order

  • Headshot first

  • Commercial or concept photos after

• Do not cram too much information

• Present cleanly and professionally

Tip 3: How to increase your chances of being discovered as a model

Step 1: Maintain health to pursue a modeling career

Build a healthy, sustainable lifestyle
The modeling industry has a place for short models, but no place for those lacking discipline. Good health is the foundation for maintaining performance, spirit, and a professional work attitude.

• Good health helps you

  • Maintain energy during photoshoots, castings

  • Maintain focus and perseverance

  • Create a positive impression with agencies and clients

Drink enough water every day
Water directly affects your skin, physique, and alertness.

• Drink water regularly throughout the day

• Avoid dehydration during long working hours

• Hydrated skin will

  • Look fresher in photos

  • Require less excessive editing

Maintain minimum weekly exercise
No need for intense workouts, consistency is key.

• Exercise at least twice a week

• You can choose

  • Brisk walking

  • Yoga, pilates

  • Stretching, maintaining posture

• Exercise helps

  • Maintain a slim physique

  • Improve posture and presence

Limit alcohol and stimulants
These factors directly affect your physique and professional image.

• Alcohol easily causes

  • Fatigue

  • Bad skin

  • Reduced work performance

• The modeling profession requires high alertness and self-control

Eat scientifically, prioritize natural foods
Diet has a long-term impact on health and appearance.

• Increase intake of

  • Green vegetables

  • Grains

  • Minimally processed foods

• Prioritize clean, natural foods when possible

• Avoid

  • Extreme diets

  • Starving to maintain figure

Step 2: Train your facial expressions as a model

Focus on controlling your gaze to convey emotion
In many photoshoots, photographers need clear emotions quickly, so the ability to control one's gaze is a core skill.

• Learn to express emotions with your eyes only

• Keep the rest of your face stable

• Makes photos look natural, not "over-acted"

Observe professional models to broaden your perspective
Learning by observation helps you understand how emotions are expressed in real life.

• Follow models on social media

• Pay attention to

  • Facial expressions

  • Eye contact

  • How they change emotions in just a few frames

• Compare styles to find what suits you best

Practice regularly in front of a mirror and camera
Good expressions are the result of repeated practice, not innate talent.

• Spend time in front of the mirror

  • Practice different facial expressions

  • Combine with basic posing

• You can record short videos

  • Review to adjust

  • Identify which expressions are most effective

Be ready to express emotions on demand
During a shoot, you need to react quickly to directions.

• Train basic emotions

  • Happy

  • Sad

  • Annoyed

  • Confused

  • Surprised

• Each emotion should have

  • A subtle, refined version

  • A clear, exaggerated version

• This helps you be

  • More flexible

  • Suitable for many different concepts

A reminder from professional models
Expressive skills don't come overnight, even for celebrities.

• Gigi Hadid once shared that

  • When she first started, she faced many difficulties

  • Every job was a learning experience

  • Progress comes from practice and a proactive attitude

Step 3: Attend model fairs to meet agents

Prioritize model fairs over expensive schools
For newcomers, especially those looking for how to become a model despite being petite, model fairs are a practical way to reach agents and talent scouts.

• Fairs gather

  • Modeling agents

  • Talent scouts

  • Casting representatives

• Helping you

  • Get direct evaluation

  • Understand market criteria

  • Save costs compared to long-term schooling

Actively search for fairs near your location
Strategic travel helps you participate easily and prepare better.

• Search online

  • "nearest modeling convention"

  • "modeling convention for new models"

• Prioritize fairs that

  • Have real agents participating

  • Have clear schedules and information

  • Don't make unrealistic promises

Prepare thoroughly before attending a fair
Good preparation helps you make a quick impression in a very short time.

• Bring with you

  • Multiple printed portfolios

  • High-quality headshots

• Prepare mentally

  • Be confident but listen

  • Be ready to receive direct feedback

• Attire

  • Neat

  • Neutral

  • Suitable for quick photoshoots and castings

Choose reputable fairs for models without an agent
Not all fairs are suitable for new models.

• Faces West

  • Well-regarded in the industry

  • Suitable for models without an agent

  • Provides opportunities to meet many casting representatives directly

Step 4: How to get discovered as a petite model

Position yourself correctly in the market from the start
Petite models don't lack opportunities; they lack the right marketing strategy. When you position yourself correctly, the market will come to you.

• Many brands actively seek petite, small models

• Some companies

  • Recruit teen models based on physique and proportions

  • Even if you're over 20 or 25

• What matters is not age or height

  • But which role you are suitable for

Choose a path that doesn't depend on height
Instead of trying to squeeze into an unsuitable niche, choose a path with natural advantages.

• Parts model

  • Hands, legs, feet, lips

  • No height requirement

• Face model / beauty model

  • Shoots for cosmetics, skincare, makeup

  • Focus entirely on the face

• These are all directions that are

  • Less competitive

  • Suitable for petite individuals

  • Have real market demand

Objectively evaluate your body's strengths
Identifying your strengths is a crucial step to being "discovered" correctly.

• Ask yourself

  • Which part of your body is most often complimented

  • Face, eyes, skin, or hands

• For example

  • If you have beautiful, delicate feet

    • You can consider parts modeling for footwear

  • If you are often complimented on your eyes and face

    • Develop your face/beauty modeling direction

Market your strengths correctly to increase your chances of being chosen
Agencies and brands aren't looking for "perfect people"; they're looking for the best fit for a specific job.

• In your portfolio and online profile

  • Highlight your chosen strengths

  • No need to show everything

• Photos should clearly show

  • The body part you are positioning

  • Your ability to photograph well in that area

Step 5: The realities of pursuing a career as a petite model

Set realistic expectations for a long-term career
Even with great effort, height can limit certain opportunities. It's crucial to understand the market correctly and not force yourself into less viable paths.

• Runway modeling

  • Not a realistic option for models under 1m68 (5’6)

  • Strict height and proportion requirements

• Accepting reality

  • Doesn't mean giving up on your dreams

  • But choosing a smarter path

Focus on suitable and high-demand jobs
The modeling market isn't just about runways.

• Commercial model

  • Advertising shoots, TV commercials, media images

  • No height or age limits

• Catalog model

  • Represents general consumers

  • Increasing need for diverse body types

• Print modeling

  • Focuses on face, emotion, image

  • Less dependent on absolute height

Keep your goals but be flexible with your path
Being a model requires both dreams and strategy.

• Set clear goals

  • Long-term career

  • Stable income

• If one direction isn't suitable

  • Don't be stubborn

  • Switch to a more feasible direction

• Professional models

  • Don't measure success by runways

  • But by the number of jobs and value brought to brands

Prioritize commercial modeling over high fashion
The difference between these two paths is significant.

• High fashion models

  • Strict height requirements

  • Very limited opportunities

• Commercial models

  • No age or height limits

  • Broad opportunities, large market

  • Suitable for those looking for ways to model despite being short

Practical Steps to Succeed as a Short Model

Maintain a realistic mindset and market yourself correctly
Success in modeling comes from understanding your position in the market and choosing appropriate goals.

• If you are around 1m60 (5ft3)

  • The chances of opening a major show are very low in the near future

  • Over-focusing on this goal can easily lead to discouragement and wasted time

• That doesn't mean you can't succeed

  • But rather you need to choose the right niche for your physique and strengths

Focus on practical jobs rather than fame
A modeling career is not solely measured by major runways.

• Many short models

  • Earn a stable income from advertising, catalogs, and print

  • Work more consistently than runway models

• Proper marketing helps

  • Agencies understand which jobs suit you

  • Brands find you faster

Don't get stuck on unsuitable goals
Aiming high is good, but clinging to unrealistic goals will slow you down.

• Ask yourself

  • What does the market need?

  • Which needs can you fulfill?

• When you meet market demands

  • Opportunities will come more frequently

  • Your career path will be more sustainable

References

1. http://www.modelmanagement.com/modeling-advice/can-i-be-a-model/
2. https://www.fashiongonerogue.com/how-to-be-a-model-a-guide/
3. http://stylecaster.com/how-to-be-a-model/

Translation: Leigh Kennedy Ly.