Many people would like to get into modeling, but just don't know where to start. Here are the steps that can help you achieve that goal and possibly turn it into a career!
Instructions
Things You'll Need
Internet Connection
Spare Time
Networking Skills
1
Be serious about modeling - No photographer wants to work with someone who finds this profession to be a joke or something to mess around in. You need to be on time to shoots, look presentable for the shoot, credit accordingly, and be cooperative.
2
Join modeling websites - Websites such as www.ModelMayhem.com and www.OneModelPlace.com are great modeling sites to join. Here you can create your own profile, specify what type of work you're interested in, upload pictures, and search for photographers, hairstylists, makeup artists, etc in your area.
If you have no previous experience and no professional-looking photos, find a friend who is handy with a camera to take a couple simple full-body shots and face shots. This will give photographers an idea of your look and will look better than random candid shots in your bedroom.
In the modeling world there are many types of compensation for a shoot. There's TFP (Time For Prints), TFCD (Time For CD), TFI (Trade For Images), paid assignments - paying you, and paid assignments - you paying the photographer. You will need to specify what type of work you're looking for in your profile. In the beginning you will probably only be able to find work in TFP, TFCD, TFI, and paid assignments - you paying the photographer. Later on you will find more work where you are paid and can request to only do paid work.
3
Set up and go to shoots - After you have found a photographer that wants to work with you, figure out what sort of compensation will take place, set up a time and place for the shoot, discuss any sort of rules/expectations for the shoot, ask if you need to do your own hair/makeup/bring clothing, etc.
Often times, models will bring an escort for extra safety measures. I recommend bringing an escort to at least your first shoot with the photographer. After you become more comfortable with that photographer then you can choose to leave your escort at home.
Try to be relaxed and pose naturally. Photographs say a lot about how you're feeling. If you look stressed or nervous, the pictures will show that.
Be cooperative, because nobody likes a demanding model. Also, before you leave, be sure to thank the photographer and anyone else who helped with the shoot.
4
Keep in touch with photographers - After the shoot, be sure you know when you will receive your compensation for the shoot and if you have to return to the studio to pick up photos or if they will send them to you. Especially keep in touch after compensation is received if you and the photographer had a good shoot together. But regardless on your experience, always credit photographers for their work. If you don't, you will be looked down upon.
5
Network - Try to get as many contacts in the modeling industry as you can. Try to work with a variety of photographers, hairstylists, makeup artists, etc. This will ensure that you get exposure and have a decent amount of work to show to future clients. Basically, the more you put yourself out there the more work you will do.
Be sure to attend events if possibly. Promote yourself. Don't be shy. If you want to get more work, you are the only one that can make it happen. So get out there and network!
