So what actually makes swimwear modeling different?
Great starting point. Swimwear modeling is its own world — it overlaps with fashion but
it has a totally different set of skills, standards, and opportunities. The biggest
difference? It's almost entirely camera-based. You're not walking a runway — you're
posing, connecting with a lens, and making a bikini look like the most amazing thing
anyone's ever seen.
The main markets you'd be working in:
• Catalog & E-commerce — shooting for brands like Victoria's Secret, ASOS,
boutique swimwear labels
• Editorial — magazine features, travel and lifestyle publications
• Social Media Campaigns — brand deals and partnerships (hello, this is basically
my life.
• Resort & Lookbook Shoots — seasonal campaigns for luxury or indie labels
• Sports & Fitness Swimwear — athletic brands that want that active, energetic
vibe
Each market has its own aesthetic, so finding where YOUR look fits is part of the
journey!
The body standards conversation (I'm going there)
Let's be honest because I think this is the thing people are most nervous about. Yes,
swimwear modeling requires a certain level of comfort with your body being the focus.
BUT — the standards are genuinely more flexible than high fashion.
Height is typically 5'5" to 5'9" for women, but commercial and curve markets are way
more flexible than that. What brands are really looking for is:
• A healthy, toned look — not a specific size or number on a scale
• Clear, well-cared-for skin (more on that in a sec)
• Confidence that reads on camera — this is HUGE
• Authenticity — the curve and plus-size swimwear market is booming and brands
want real, relatable energy
Honestly? The industry is more inclusive right now than it's ever been. If swimwear
modeling is your dream, there is a space for you. I genuinely believe that.
Posing — the skill nobody talks about enough
This is THE thing that separates okay swimwear content from stunning swimwear
content. Posing is a skill, and it takes practice. Here's what I've learned:
• Know your angles — Seriously, spend time in front of a mirror and a camera.
Learn what elongates your body and what flatters your natural shape.
• Hands and arms matter SO much — Never let your arms hang flat against your
sides. Bend them slightly, prop them on your hips, run fingers through your hair
— create shape!
• Engage your core — A lightly engaged core instantly improves your posture and
makes every pose look more intentional.
• Work the camera — Make eye contact with the lens. Vary your expressions.
Listen to the photographer — they can see what you can't.
• Keep moving — The best shots often come from transitioning between poses.
Flow naturally, don't freeze.
• Arch, elongate, point — a subtle back arch, lengthened neck, and pointed toes =
instantly elevated pose. Every time.
My best tip? Record yourself posing and watch it back. Study swimwear campaigns you
love. Follow models whose work resonates with you and study how they move. It's all
learnable!
Shooting on location — what nobody tells you
Most swimwear shoots are outdoors — beach, pool, boats, tropical resorts. Sounds
dreamy, right? It IS. But it also comes with some real challenges:
• The weather doesn't care about your schedule — Wind, sun glare, cold water,
sand everywhere. You stay professional regardless.
• Long shoot days — We're talking 8 to 12 hours sometimes. Pack snacks, stay
hydrated, and keep your energy up.
• You'll get in and out of water all day — And you need to look fresh every. single.
time. Build that mental stamina.
• Quick changes are real — You might shoot 15 different swimsuit looks in one
day. Be fast, be adaptable.
• Touch-ups are constant — Saltwater and sweat do their thing. Your makeup
artist is your best friend on set. Work with them, not against them.
The location shoots are honestly some of my favorite days ever — once you embrace
the chaos, it's SO fun.
Skin, hair & body care — your non-negotiables
In swimwear modeling, your skin is always visible. This is the job. So, taking care of it
isn't optional, it's professional:
• SPF every single day — Even on set, especially on set. Use reef-safe formulas
and reapply throughout the day.
• Consistent skincare routine — Cleanser, moisturizer, SPF in the morning.
Something nourishing at night. That's the foundation.
• Hair protection — Saltwater and chlorine WILL damage your hair if you're not
proactive. Use protective products before shoots and deep condition regularly.
• Body care — Exfoliate, moisturize, keep up with whatever hair removal routine
works for you. Do this consistently, not just before shoots.
• Nutrition and water — Glowing skin comes from the inside. Eat well, drink your
water, cut back on alcohol before big shoots.
• Sleep — Genuinely the most powerful beauty tool you have. Use it.
I know it sounds like a lot but once it's a routine it becomes second nature. Your future
self — and your photographer — will thank you.
Body confidence & knowing your limits
This is the section I feel most strongly about, so I want to say it clearly:
You are always allowed to have boundaries. Full stop.
• Before accepting a job, research the brand and review their existing content.
Make sure YOU are comfortable with the aesthetic before you commit.
• On set, you can always say no to a pose or shot that makes you uncomfortable.
Say it professionally and directly. Any good team will respect it.
• If something feels off — the vibe, the crew, the situation — trust your gut. You
can leave.
• Build your body confidence intentionally. Follow accounts that make you feel
good. Work with people who respect you. That energy shows on camera.
Confidence isn't about having the 'perfect' body — it's about being genuinely
comfortable in yours. That's what makes a swimwear photo magnetic. And that's
something you can absolutely develop.
Getting started & finding work
Same foundational stuff as any modeling niche, with some swimwear-specific tips:
• TFP shoots to build your portfolio — Find photographers with strong swimwear or
lifestyle work and collaborate.
• Show variety — Beach shots, pool shots, different moods and styles. Versatility =
more bookings.
• Your Instagram IS your portfolio — A curated, consistent feed is often the very
first thing clients and agencies look at.
• Find agencies with commercial or swimwear divisions — Not all agencies are the
same. Research who represents models like you.
• Upfront fees = red flag — Legit agencies are commission-based only. Always.
Bottom line?
Swimwear modeling is one of the most fun, creative, and sun-soaked niches in this
whole industry. It rewards confidence, preparation, and authenticity more than almost
anything else.
If it's calling to you — answer. Do it smart, do it safe, and do it as fully and
unapologetically as possible. That's when the magic happens.
As always, I'm rooting for you. Love you guys! — Bri