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Piercings & Tattoos in Modeling


For those of you who want to model and have body piercings and tattoos, be cautious, as these can make or break a potential modeling career.

If you don't have any tattoos or piercings other than your ears, you may not want to rush to get them if you want to model. When you sign with an agency, they will ask you what piercings or markings you currently have on your body. Most ideally would like just your ears to be pierced.

If you have your belly pierced or you have numerous ear piercings, an agent may tell you to take them out while out on shoots or going for auditions. If you don't mind the possibility of your piercings closing up, this shouldn't be a problem. But if it is, then you may not be a happy camper.

Tattoos will usually hurt more than help your modeling career, unless you're into commercial/print modeling, where you can cater to this specific type of audience. You may not get as much work but there are clients out there who need models with real tattoos. If you have a small one that isn't so noticeable, my best advice is to learn how to use makeup to cover it up.

Dermablend is an excellent corrective makeup and coverup line that's not too expensive and comes in various shades to match your skin tone. However, don't lie and not mention it to your agent. Be honest upfront and when they ask to see it, make sure to mention that you know how coverup your tattoos for shoots. If you're sleeved (tattoos that cover your whole arm like the sleeve of a shirt) or you have really big, noticeable or multiple tattoos, you may not have a great chance at getting representation.

Many agents are just not willing to spend the time or money on a makeup artist to completely cover all your tattoos. They can easily opt for the next model hopeful who looks just like you but without the markings and piercings. Just something to keep in mind.

It's one thing to have personal expression through piercings or tattoos but you also need to realize that your agent is trying to fit you into the right categories to market you to. It's not so much of a sacrifice but just realize that once you get representation, you need to be mindful of more than you normally would regarding tattoos and piercings. If you really want to pursue modeling, then hold off. If you already have these markings and piercings, then don't add anymore unless your agent approves it.

Comments

Anonymous said…
I have an upper ear piercing ( just one anyway) . U think that's gonna be a problem for me cause I aspire to be a model someday....
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Anonymous! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #453," which can be found on my new blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Anonymous said…
Thank you so much, I was already thinking of takIng off the ear ring and leaving the hole to close even though I love the piercing so much.... muaaaaaaaa
Anonymous said…
I just got a tattoo on my forearm it's a tiger it's just not that much big eather can I still get a job
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Anonymous! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #495," which can be found on my new blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
M.Alexandria said…
Hi, I'm 17, 5'7, 135lbs. I have no tattoos and only my ears pierced. I would like to pursue modeling. I want to lose some weight first and I've always wanted after I lost the weight to get a tattoo between my hipbones almost as a reward. But also as a testament to my journey because I've been losing weight since my doctor told me I was at risk for diabetes. How much of a problem would that cause in finding representation? the tattoo would only read "studio de perfectum"
Dania Denise said…
Hi, M.Alexandria! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #498," which can be found on my new blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Kaelynn said…
Hi
I am 16 years old, 5'8, 135 lbs, and only have ear piercings.
My aunt wants me to model with her and my 5 year old cousin, and I am thinking about applying, Bt I had a tattoo design I drew that I wanted to have later. It is of tentacles (like Slenderman's) but it would only be on my back. I wouldn't mind not getting it, but I also think it would be cool to have it or if I could. What would you recommend?
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Kaelynn! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #614," which can be found on my new blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Anonymous said…
I want to get a tongue piercing, but I want to start modeling also. Can a tongue piercing ruien my opportunity with modeling ?
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Megan! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #616," which can be found on my new blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Anonymous said…
Does this also apply to male models, because I have pierced ears and wear earrings. Im also considering getting an eye piercing because I have pretty light brown eyes that I have been complimented on all my life.
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Anonymous! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #617," which can be found on my new blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Unknown said…
Would it be okay if I had a small word written on the side of my hand or little finger and still be able to model?
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Jaspiasingh! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #619," which can be found on my new blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Anonymous said…
Hey there! I want to start modeling and just want to know if I get a tattoo on my back, will it limit me in my career? About medium size? If it's on my back does it really matter? Please help xx :)
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Anonymous! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #635," which can be found on my new blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Unknown said…
Hello. I'm only 14 and wanting this as a career but I have one simple question. I have my ears gauged and not planning on letting them close anytime soon. However do you think I would be able to go into modeling with gauges?
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Zoie! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #638," which can be found on my new blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Anonymous said…
hi, i have my hips & back dimples pierced (both dermal) i just want to know if i will be able to go into the modeling career with permanent piercings. ??
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Anonymous! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #646," which can be found on my new blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Anonymous said…
Hi, I've always wanted to get a tattoo on my left wrist of Arabic writing would that be bad?
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Anonymous!

A small tattoo on your wrist wouldn't be a hindrance at all because it would be something easy to conceal with makeup or airbrush out in Photoshop.

Many models have small tattoos on their wrists so it is a common thing that most agencies and clients don't have a huge problem with. Just make sure it isn't huge, lol.
Anonymous said…
Hi, do you know any agencies around Temecula ? (:
Anonymous said…
Hi,
Ive also been wondering about some agencies to look into
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Anonymous (July 12 @ 1:17PM)! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #745," which can be found on my other blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Anonymous (July 12 @ 4:20PM)!

Location plays a very important part when searching for agency info to send to people so I can't really answer your question because I don't know the city/state where you live.
Anonymous said…
What about lip piercings? i really want snake bites (two lip piercings on the bottom lip) but i also want to be a model because i look up to Edie Campbell so much and i wanna be just like her someday. :) :D
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Anonymous! You'll find the answer to your question in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #780," which can be found on my other blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Anonymous said…
I have a medium size letter tattoo on my leg & a small letter on my belly is that gonna affect me in the modeling field??
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Anonymous!

I don't know if you're a male or female or what kind of modeling you're interested in (fashion, commercial/print, etc.) but in general, if the tattoo can be concealed with makeup, it shouldn't be too much of a concern but the one on your leg might be an issue with agencies.

However, the best way to find out for sure if to simply submit yourself. What may not work for one agency, may be perfectly fine with another so submit according to each one's guidelines and then see what happens.
Anonymous said…
Hey, I have 3 lobe piercings on each ear and an upper helix piercing on one of my ears. I aspire to be a model but I'm worried that these will affect my chances of becoming one 😕
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Anonymous!

I don't think those types of piercings will count against you. The kind of piercings you described having aren't as big of a deal as, say, gauged ears. If you're able to take the piercings out for short periods of time (like when attending open calls or castings or when doing a shoot), then an agent shouldn't have any problems with them. If they can't come out, if an agency really likes you, they'll make an exception for something like that.

I say go ahead and submit and see what happens. That's really the only way you'll get some solid answers as to whether or not your piercings will be an issue for an agency or not. Never let one concern prevent you from submitting yourself because you can't read an agency's mind and the worst they can do is say "no" so I think your odds are good. Go for it!
Anonymous said…
Hello! I'm a 15 year old girl. I was planning on getting a tattoo on the back of my arm, like right above my elbow. It'll be about and inch wide and an inch in height. How much would that effect my chances in modeling? Thanks!
Jenny said…
Hi Dania,

I have never seriously considered modeling since I am very short, but I just wanted to see if there was anything out there for me. I am Chinese-American and I have shoulder-length platinum blonde hair, a nostril piercing, a septum piercing, a medusa piercing, an industrial piercing, small gauged ears, a small heart outline tattoo on my wrist and a crescent moon on my finger. Yeah, it's a lot to take in and imagine. I am also only 5'3. BUT, I am also from the Bay Area in CA where it is not uncommon to see edgy/trendy people around. I've done modeling at my school and have been asked to model runway for student designers despite my many piercings, or rather because I have these. It's probably a long shot, but doesn't hurt to know. And I know that there's more edgy models breaking out into the modeling industry that have visible facial piercings and tattoos. Should I just try submitting to an agency just to test the waters? And if so, what agency? Are there any agencies currently existing that accept models with visible piercings and tattoos?
Jenny said…
Oh whoops, forgot to say I wanted notifications for follow-up comments. If you could reply to my question on this thread so I get notified, that would be great, thanks
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Anonymous! You'll find the answer to your question in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #820," which can be found on my other blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Jenny! You'll find the answer to your question in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #821," which can be found on my other blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Anonymous said…
Hi, I have a nose piercing, belly piercing and several ear piercings. Would that be a problem in a modelling career? What if I used clear studs?
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Anonymous! You'll find the answer to your question in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #831," which can be found on my other blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Anonymous said…
Hi I have 3 body piercings, one on my nose other one on my lip and theven last one is my belly button. I would like to know if there is any agency with alternative models besides suicide girls?
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Anonymous! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #866," which can be found on my other blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Anonymous said…
Hi Dania!

I'm looking to become a freelancer/part-time model because I have done a few photoshoots for my photographer friends and I really enjoyed it. I have a medium sized tattoo on my side stomach that I got a few years ago. Didn't think I was going into modeling but now I kind of regret it. The tattoo is well done and I don't think anyone would consider it offensive. I'm Chinese-American, 22 years old, 5'8' and slim. I'm really worried that this tattoo might prevent my from getting my foot in the door. Although I don't plan to pursue modeling as a full-time career as I already have a well paid job in the financial industry, it still would frustrate me a lot if I could not get into modeling just because of my tattoo. I don't have any other tattoos or body piercings. What do you think of my chances in getting signed by an agency? Thank you so much!
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Anonymous! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #869," which can be found on my other blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Anonymous said…
Hello, I'm 14 and I'm 5'2 and people say I'm too short to be a model, but my mom says I just can't do runway. Also, I have a lip piercing. Can I still be a model even if I'm short, and if so, are there any things you would reccomend for me to get noticed?
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Anonymous! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #887," which can be found on my other blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Anonymous said…
hey! Im female, im 16 and 5ft9/10 and thinking about persueing modeling, I had my ears pierced but they have close up, but i was really wanting the cartilage of my ear done and my belly button pierced! would you advise not to?? I really want to but I am not sure...
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Anonymous! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #893," which can be found on my other blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Unknown said…
Thank you for posting this but unfortunately I was a little too late in seeing it. Last November, I got a three inch anchor tattoo on my left shoulder blade. Do you think that it won't affect my career much? It can hardly be seen when wearing muscle shirts and is on my back.
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Unknown!

These days, a lot of models have tattoos so it isn't something that would shock agencies necessarily. Based on the size and location of your tattoo, I don't think it would be an issue since it can't really be seen when wearing a muscle shirt but the best way to find out for sure is to submit to agencies and see what they have to say if you attend an open call or get invited to an interview.

Getting feedback straight from the source is going to be your best bet but if you've got a great look they can market, I doubt it will be a big deal.

Best of luck!
Casey said…
what if you have gauged ears that are 00g?
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Casey! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #905," which can be found on my other blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Unknown said…
Hi , I have a nose piercing on left side can I become a successful model like Kendall Jenner with it or not
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Unknown! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #1,009," which can be found on my other blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
Kailee Davis said…
I have no piercings at all, no tattoos, and long virgin hair. I'd love to go into modeling, but I am barely 5' tall. How should I go about applying to agencies?
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Kailee! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #1,031," which can be found on my other blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!

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