Model (person)

In the fashion industry, models are individuals who have a role at promoting, displaying, or advertising commercial goods (particularly fashion clothes in fashion shows), or who act as a visual assistance for persons who are producing works of art or posing for photographs. Despite the fact that models are mostly female, there are some male models, particularly when it comes to modelling clothes. Models may work on a professional or a part-time basis.

When compared to other forms of public performance, such as acting or dancing, modelling ("modelling" in American English) is regarded to be a distinct discipline. However, while the distinction between modelling and acting is not often obvious, participating in a film or a play is not usually regarded to be "modelling." Rather, it is considered to be "performing." In a similar vein, appearing in a television commercial is not usually seen as modelling. In most cases, modelling does not include any spoken communication. It is customary for models to refrain from expressing their own views, and their reputation and image are seen as very important.

Fashion, glamour, fitness, bikini, fine art, body-part, promotional, and commercial print models are some of the many types of modelling available. Models appear in a wide range of media forms, including books, periodicals, films, newspapers, the internet, and television, to name a few examples. Pret-a-Porter and Looker are examples of films in which fashion modelling is included, as are reality television series such as America's Next Top Model and The Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency, and music videos such as "Freedom! '90," "Wicked Game," "Daughters," and "Blurred Lines."

As an additional source of income to their main jobs as actors, singers, athletes and reality television stars, celebrities often engage in modelling competitions, assignments, and contracts. Modeling is not often a full-time profession or a primary source of income.