Looking to build your modeling portfolio? Learn how to get started as a microstock model in Columbia, SC. No provocative posing, just expressive imagery, professional guidance, and an easy entry into the modeling world.

Stock model “Doctor” or a “Stock Doc” 🙂

Start Your Modeling Journey with Microstock Photography

Professional. Respectful. Creative.

If you’ve ever dreamed of getting in front of the camera but didn’t know where to start, microstock modeling is a fantastic and low-pressure way to begin. Based in Columbia, South Carolina, we’re a husband-and-wife photography team offering new and aspiring models the chance to build their portfolio, learn the art of expression and posing, and participate in the growing world of stock photography.

What Is Microstock Modeling?

Microstock photography is a form of commercial stock imagery used in advertising, websites, social media, presentations, and beyond. The images we create are uploaded to stock photo websites like Adobe Stock and iStock, where they can be licensed for a wide range of everyday uses—from blogs to brochures to billboards.

As a model, your role is simple but powerful: express everyday emotions and scenarios through honest, natural posing. This could include smiling while sipping coffee, showing frustration during a work-from-home moment, or joyfully dancing around your living room.

No Provocative Poses. Just Real-Life Moments.

Let’s clear up a common misconception: Microstock modeling is NOT glamour or provocative modeling.
You won’t be asked to wear revealing clothing or pose in ways that make you uncomfortable. We focus entirely on relatable, lifestyle images that reflect real people living real lives—because that’s what clients want to license.

A Supportive, Friendly Environment

We understand being in front of the camera can be intimidating, especially for first-timers. That’s why our shoots are always conducted in a professional, supportive environment.

We’re a husband-and-wife team with years of experience working together to capture genuine expressions and authentic moments. While Kyle (our lead photographer) handles the technical side of the shoot, his wife is present throughout to help coach poses, give direction, and make you feel completely comfortable.

Our goal is to make sure you look great—and feel even better—while creating images that can benefit both of our portfolios.

Woman listening in yellow shirt with dark blue walls

How You’re Compensated

Let’s be transparent: Microstock is a passion project for most photographers. While these images are sold online, licensing prices have dropped over the years, and today we often earn just pennies per image sold.

Because of this, we offer two fair options for our models:

Option 1: Modest Hourly Pay

We offer $12/hour for your time, typically for shoots that last 1–2 hours.

Option 2: Trade for Photos (TFP)

In this arrangement, you receive edited, high-quality digital images from the shoot that you can use in your own portfolio or social media. It’s a fantastic way to build a professional modeling portfolio at no cost while gaining real experience.

Five year old blonde girl sitting on a decrative chair looking at the camera with her chin resting on her hand with room for copy on the right

In both cases, we’ll ask you to sign a standard model release so the images can be used on stock platforms.

What You’ll Gain

  • Experience: Practice posing and expression with real coaching.
  • Portfolio Content: Get professional images to showcase your range.
  • Credibility: Having your face featured on stock sites is a great way to legitimize your modeling profile.
  • Flexibility: No long-term commitments—just one shoot at a time.

Microstock won’t make you famous, but it’s a smart stepping stone into the modeling industry, especially for those looking to start locally and build confidence.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome all ages, sizes, races, and backgrounds. Our goal is to capture the diversity and beauty of real people.

If you are interested in having your child, who is under 18, model, that’s fine, we need you to bring proof of parentage, an ID for yourself and be willing to sign on the child model’s behalf. You will also be asked to stay for the entire duration of the shoot.

Currently, we’re looking for new faces in the Columbia, SC area, especially across the Midlands region, including Lexington, West Columbia, Irmo, and surrounding towns.

Whether you’re brand new to modeling or just looking to add fresh images to your book, we’d love to hear from you.

Ready to Learn More?

Fill out our quick interest form or email us directly with a photo and a few words about yourself. We’ll get back to you with details on upcoming shoots and availability.

📍 Serving Columbia, Lexington, Irmo, and the South Carolina Midlands

Join us and take your first step into the world of modeling—no runway needed. Just real people, real stories, and real creativity.

Just fill out the form below, and we will get back to you quickly. Please tell us about yourself, and if you would like TFP or compensation.