Commercial modelling is the largest area of modelling in the industry. Commercial models carve out extremely successful and lucrative professional careers by appearing in advertisements, magazines and catalogues.

There are many areas from promotional modelling such as at a sporting event or a trade fair, to being used to advertise a product or brand, be it garden furniture or phone systems.

Commercial models promote products and services through advertisements in the media, such as television and the internet as well as in print ads. They appear in commercials, on product packaging, in magazines and on billboards. This is by far the most comprehensive and varied type of modelling.

The requirements in commercial modelling are not particularly stringent. The look is based solely on what the client envisages for the advertisement. Contrary to popular belief, many successful commercial models look like normal, everyday people. However, they are set apart by their ability to express emotion, and their ability to replicate that same look time and time again on demand. Actors often cross over into commercial modelling as clients often look for models with not only the right look, but also personality, versatility and great acting ability. Good commercial models are usually photogenic. Having a unique or unusual look is good but is not absolutely essential.

The demand for commercial models in the industry is very high, with many companies competing for the most exciting as well as most memorable models that will be easily identifiable with their product or service.