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PFWA Academy
Model Pathway
Train for runway + camera, build your portfolio, and become bookable for paid opportunities.
Ages 13+ (Youth, Teen & Adult)
Absolutely beginner-friendly — no prior modeling experience required. All body types, heights, and backgrounds welcome.
The Model Pathway offers multiple formats so you can start wherever fits your schedule:
Cohort
Model Code — 10-week structured course (Saturdays)
Bootcamp
Model Bootcamp — intensive 1-day workshop
Workshops
Drop-in workshops — posing, comp cards, branding (2-4 weeks each)
What You'll Learn
Core skills taught across all Model Pathway programs:
1
Runway Walk
Pace, posture, turns, stage marks, formation walking
2
Posing
Editorial vs. commercial, angles, hands, body lines
3
Facial Expression + Camera Presence
Emoting on command, connecting with the lens, range of looks
4
Basic Makeup + Hair Standards
Clean skin prep, runway-ready hair, what casting directors expect
5
Wardrobe + Fitting Etiquette
How to be "model-ready" — quick changes, pinning, garment care
6
Audition + Casting Skills
How to slate, take direction, project confidence in 30 seconds
7
Professionalism
Call times, contracts, communication, how to be re-booked
8
Social Media Branding
How to promote yourself without hurting your bookings — content strategy, dos and don'ts
Sign Up for Model Code
What You'll Build
Your platform-building deliverables — walk away with real assets:
Professional Headshot + Digitals
Industry-standard photos for casting submissions
Comp Card
PDF + printable composite card with your best shots and stats
Portfolio Gallery
Published on your PFWA app profile — shareable link
Model Bio + Measurements Sheet
Professional bio and stats sheet ready for agencies and clients
Intro Video / Runway Reel
15-30 second reel showcasing your walk and presence
Media Kit
Optional but powerful — one-page brand sheet for booking inquiries
Build Your Portfolio
Pathway Levels
Pick your starting point — every level builds toward getting booked:
1
Foundations
New Models
Runway basics (walk, posture, turns)
Intro to posing + camera comfort
Outcome: You can confidently walk a runway and pose for basic photo shoots.
2
Camera + Brand
Portfolio Growth
Advanced posing (editorial vs. commercial)
Comp card creation + social media strategy
Outcome: You have a professional portfolio, comp card, and online presence.
3
Booked & Paid
Client Readiness
Casting/audition technique + professionalism
Contracts, rates, and client communication
Outcome: You are bookable — ready to apply for gigs and get paid consistently.
Register for Your Level
Requirements + Add-Ons
Required
Signed model release form (parent/guardian for minors)
Code of conduct agreement
Attendance policy acknowledgment (80% minimum for cohort completion)
Optional Add-Ons
Extra Photo Sessions
Book additional studio time with PFWA photographers
Runway Masterclass
Advanced runway intensive with guest choreographers
Travel + Show Opportunities
Invitations to walk in partner shows in Chicago, St. Louis, and beyond
Model Standards
Know before you go — every booking, every show.
Arrive 15 minutes early — always
Bring nude undergarments + heels (3-4")
Hair clean & styled, face prepped (minimal/clean makeup)
Respond to all booking messages within 24 hours
Be professional, respectful, and ready to take direction
What You Can Charge
Rates vary by market, experience, and gig type. Here's a starting guide:
Beginner
$0 – $50/hr
TFP (trade for photos), student shows, local promos
Intermediate
$50 – $150/hr
Paid bookings, brand shoots, runway shows
Advanced
$150 – $500+/hr
Editorial, campaigns, travel bookings, recurring clients
What You Can Get Booked For
This pathway prepares you for paid work in these categories:
Runway Modeling
Fashion shows, showcases, and charity events
Brand / Product Shoots
E-commerce, lookbooks, and promotional content
Editorial Shoots
Magazine-style creative fashion photography
Event Hosting / Promo Modeling
Brand activations, grand openings, trade shows
Fit Modeling
Garment fitting sessions for designers (optional track)
Hair / Makeup Practice Model
Paid or discounted sessions as a practice model for beauty students
Browse the Marketplace
How to Get Booked
Your path from profile to paycheck — all inside the PFWA marketplace:
1
Create Your PFWA Model Profile
Photos, bio, measurements, availability
2
Upload Photos/Video + Set Availability
Build your portfolio gallery and mark open dates
3
Apply to Gigs + Get Invited
Browse the marketplace or receive direct booking requests
4
Confirm Booking + Receive Payment
Accept the gig, sign the contract, get your deposit
5
Get Reviewed + Build Reputation
Earn reviews, badges, and repeat bookings
Create Your Model Profile
Program Options
Choose your entry point and register:
Model Code Scholarship Program
Full tuition coverage for qualifying models
Register
Model Code — Adults (8 Weeks)
$150 — 3 payment plans available
Register
Model Code — Youth (8 Weeks)
$150 — Ages 14 & under
Register
Model Bootcamp (1-Day Intensive)
$200
Register
Runway Training Series
Weekly and monthly drop-in workshops
Coming Soon
Comp Card Day / Headshot Day
One-day photo session + comp card creation
Coming Soon
Pro Prep: Contracts & Rates Workshop
Learn the business side of modeling
Coming Soon
Eligibility + Safety
Age Range
Adults 15+, Youth 14 & under
Minor Requirements
Models under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign all release forms and attend the first session. A chaperone is required at all photo shoots for minors.
Inclusion
PFWA celebrates all body types, sizes, heights, ethnicities, gender identities, and experience levels. Our runway is for everyone.
Safety Rules
No unsupervised direct messages between adults and minor participants
Chaperone required for all minor photo sessions
All photo usage requires signed model release — photos are never shared without consent
Zero tolerance for harassment, discrimination, or inappropriate behavior
Safe, private changing areas provided at all events
Classes in This Track
5 classes — $450 total
1
Model Code — Adults
8-Week Beginner Course (Ages 15+)
$150
8 weeks · Saturdays · Ages 15+
2
Model Code — Advanced
10-Week Adult Advanced Course
$300
Saturdays · Starting Summer 2026
3
Comp Cards
Build Your Model Portfolio
Dates & times TBD
4
Posing Workshop
Master Every Angle
Dates & times TBD
5
Model Branding
Your Personal Brand
Dates & times TBD
Ready to Start Your Model Journey?
Whether you're brand new or building your portfolio — your runway starts here. Register today and take the first step.
Register Now
Questions? Email thepeoriafashionweek@gmail.com
PEORIA Fashion Week
April 2-4, 2026 Four Points by Sheraton 501(c)(3) Nonprofit
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