How to Become a Big and Tall Model in the US | London and New York Talent │ Article
October 16, 2023 • • Grant , Trey
We sat down with two of our US models, Grant and Trey, to unpack how and why they got into modelling, and what being a BRIDGE model means to them.
1. Can you share your journey of becoming a big and tall model? What motivated you to pursue a career in modelling?
Trey
I’ve been an actor for most of my life, so performance and being on stage are both very comfortable for me! In terms of becoming a model, I was scouted at the airport. I figured if anyone thought I looked good enough to model while I was in my airport clothes, I should have the confidence to give it a shot.
Grant
My overall journey has been a long one, I was trying to get into the modelling scene for some time. I eventually got lucky by finding appropriate representation. Big and Tall models are quite rare in Boston, so I searched for agencies outside of New England to expand my potential. That is how I found BRIDGE! Which was brilliant because we both shared the same goals towards achieving my potential in the modelling industry.
2. In terms of body positivity and self-confidence, what message would you like to convey to those who may feel discouraged due to industry standards?
Trey
A lot of times, people who body shame or hold ridiculous standards do it out of their own insecurities. If you’re comfortable with who you are and love your body, that’s all that matters! If people are upset about that, it truly has more to do with them than it does with you. I love the things that make me, me. The human body is art, and the great thing about art is every piece of it should be different. If I try to make myself look like everyone else, what’s the point of me even being in the game?
Grant
There is nothing wrong with wanting to look or feel some kind of way regarding our bodies. The problem arises when it takes over your potential for happiness, or when it becomes an obsession. Trust me, once you own the way YOU look, the work speaks for itself. Try not to spend time thinking about not fitting within the normative societal standards. Spend that time doing everything you can to make yourself prepared and bookable within whatever size range you fit! Once I pushed past these internal obstacles, modelling became a blessing and an amazing form of creative expression.
3. What steps did you take to build a strong portfolio as a big and tall model, and how important was networking in your journey?
Trey
A lot of times, people who body shame or hold ridiculous standards do it out of their own insecurities. If you’re comfortable with who you are and love your body, that’s all that matters! If people are upset about that, it truly has more to do with them than it does with you. I love the things that make me, me. The human body is art, and the great thing about art is every piece of it should be different. If I try to make myself look like everyone else, what’s the point of me even being in the game?
Grant
Honestly, Google and social media can be your best friend when trying to create achievable modelling goals. Finding people who emulate what you want to do is key. This includes fellow models and photographers who you can follow on social media and connect with locally or regionally at relevant events. A lot of the time that includes going to events and meet-ups with like-minded people in the field. A lot of this work is unpaid and it takes a sizeable amount of energy and time...but if you stay with it, your chances of getting closer to the dream increase.
4. What are some key aspects that aspiring big and tall models should focus on when attending castings?
Trey
Bring yourself into the room. I think the increasing push for big and tall models is generally a reflection of the demand for more authenticity in advertising and publication. You’re already there because they want someone who more broadly represents the world, so serve authenticity!
Grant
Castings are essential for trying to get on the radar of casting directors and others within the industry. I’ve made some great connections just by attending such castings. I would recommend aspiring fellow Big and Tall models to practice their moves. Having a set of poses and movements ready to go, at a moment's notice, is necessary. You need to be able to show your moves at these castings. Make them your own, but feel free to learn from others.
5. How do you deal with body size stereotypes in the fashion industry, and what advice do you have for others facing similar challenges?
Trey
I’m a big guy, that’s been true my whole life – so I’ve struggled with it for a while. At a certain point, I realised that for every person I’m jealous of that can keep off weight, there’s a person who wishes they could just as easily put it on... so you can view your body type as a blessing or a curse. To me, it’s a blessing. I love how much space I’m able to take up, that my presence demands attention, and that I’m able to put on muscle. It’s thrilling to be someone pushing back on stereotypes. I feel privileged to take part in this kind of industry paradigm shift. If one person sees me rocking it in my work, and it makes them unashamed of who they are, then it’s worth the time.
Grant
Every model is susceptible to feeling inadequate, particularly when comparing themselves to others. It is normal to feel this way. I didn’t start loving my career until I made peace with my body. It didn’t happen overnight but as I grew as a model, I became less and less hyper-focused on industry stereotypes. Being a big and tall model is about making your size your biggest ally. It is what separates you from the traditional standards. So, use it! Be proud of your development and be excited for opportunities to showcase your body.
You can view Grant's portfolio here
You can view Trey's portfolio here