The question most often asked is: How do I become a model? How do I get my start?

Here’s six tips I’ve collected from the pros:

1.  Create your first set of pictures or portfolio.

Your first set of pictures don’t have to be professional, but they should not look like you took them with your smart phone in the bathroom mirror, either. At the very least, give your phone camera to a friend, have them hold it waist level and take full-length pictures of you against a solid background. Try different outfits such as casual and swim wear. Include a set of ‘polaroids’ too (read this article about polaroids and how to make them: https://falaterphotography.com/modeling-polaroids/) Be sure to put your contact information in each picture that you make of yourself such as an email.

2. Get as much exposure as you can.

Send your pictures out to as many agents and scouts as you can. Post them everywhere you can. This is the key to getting your image to the right people. Do not be shy or hesitant about sharing your pictures and your willingness to model and establish yourself.

3.  Modeling schools are not necessary.

Do not waste your money on modeling schools. The best way to learn modeling is by doing. Almost all the models I worked with who where fresh out of modeling school didn’t even know how to pose. I had to teach them. By their third or fourth shoot, they know more about modeling than graduates of any school. Learn by doing.

4. Don’t be discouraged.

Keep trying and trust yourself. In the past, models all had to have a certain look but that is not true anymore. Models of all shapes and sizes can find success in today’s markets.

5. Take on as many modeling jobs as you can.

Offer yourself as a model who will model for free and TFP or ‘time for prints’. That means that in exchange for you modeling for free, the photographer provides you with completed pictures of your session you can use in your portfolio. This is a great way to gain experience and build your portfolio.

Once you feel good enough to charge money for your modeling, be careful not to price yourself out of the market. A common mistake I see models make is asking too much money. Do not make this mistake. Price yourself accordingly to your looks and experience.

6. Avoid modeling scams and exclusive contracts

Do not ever pay someone to represent you or to become your agent. An agent takes a commission of the payment for a job they find for you. If they ask for money upfront, it’s a scam. Exclusive contracts are also a scam, no one uses them anymore other than scammers. Here’s a great video explaining why not to sign exclusive contracts:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bHGab-yWyCE