So you want to be a model?

It is quite often that I get asked the question; "I want to be a model, how do I get started?" I have a few steps that will hopefully be helpful to all you aspiring angels.

1. Find your market:
a. There are many places to fit in for a model in this industry. You don't always have to be 5'11" and stick thin. Although there is plenty of work for those of you who are. There is commercial, fashion, glamor, fitness,beauty, and even parts modeling.
b. 'Commercial' is a category that many people can fall into. Think about it, advertising is very broad. So if you think your face could sell a bag of chips then this may be for you!
c. 'Fashion' is what most people think of when 'model' comes to mind. These are the tall gazelles that prance along the runways. If you are 5'9" and up this could be for you. On occasion you can be shorter and be very successful, you just have to have everything else to make up for it. Also, don't think you have to be stick thin to fit in! Plus size models are making a come back!
d. 'Glamor' is for those of you that are a little sexy by nature. For this you must have curves in all the right places, natural or not. ;-) Examples of where this may take you is Maxim, Playboy, Stuff, FHM, etc. You would most likely also fall into swim wear modeling.
e. 'Fitness' models certainly work hard for their money. Days in the gym are required here! A toned physique is what will get you booked. Examples of where you may show up, Fitness RX, Shape, Muscle and Fitness, etc.
f. 'Beauty' models are either blessed with pore-less perfection or have fantastic dermatologists behind their fabulousness. This where the cameras get up close and personal with your pretty grill. These are the girls that you see in makeup and skincare ads. You never know, you could be the next face of Cover Girl!
g. Last but not least 'Parts' modeling, is for those of you who have always been complimented on those pretty piggies, or lovely limbs of yours. This section is endless, if there is one part of you that you think is exceptional then get it photographed and shake that money maker!
h. If you are one of those genetically gifted individuals that seems to fit into all of these categories, then you go girl! Strive for supermodel status!

2. Get some professional pictures!
a. Google photographers in your area and study their sites, rates, and legitimacy.
b. Of course, I recommend hiring a makeup artist, it will make all the difference I promise!
c. If you don't think you will have the funds to put this together, then skip ahead to step three. Sometimes agents will take you under their wing and get you a test shoot with a photographer.

3. Start researching agencies in your state:
a. If you happen to live in a small town, you aren't out of luck. Just look in the biggest city near you. If they like you enough they will book you from where ever you are.
b. You can either send in your pictures by email, or call and set up a meeting. I recommend the meeting, both you and the agent will have a better idea if it's going to be a good fit for you.

4. Promote yourself online:
a. The modeling industry is a whole new ball game now that the internet has stepped in. Self promotion is very popular when starting out. There are many websites that cater to modeling (modelmayhem.com, One Model Place, Models.com, etc). You will never be able to book the big jobs from here. But it may help get you a little more experience and meet local photographers, makeup artists, hairstylists, fashion stylists, and of course other models.
b. Be very careful of who you connect with online. There are many fakes and creeps that lurk online, especially where there are pretty girls. If you ever decide to go on a shoot with someone you meet online ALWAYS bring a parent, boyfriend, or trusted friend! This is very important! Safety comes first, and remember if something sounds too good to be true it probably is.

The modeling industry can be a very fun and profitable way of life. But it can also be a very unforgiving and tough place to put yourself. Just remember to never take ANYTHING personally! Just because you don't book something doesn't mean that you aren't pretty enough, or skinny enough. They are always looking for something different, so keep your head up and enjoy yourself! I always say, if it starts to cause you more pain then pleasure then it's time to move on.

GOOD LUCK MY LITTLE LOVELIES!