How Do I get Started in Modeling

So many times I am asked by models "What do I need to do to get started in modeling?" The first thing that I can suggest is take the time to determine the look that is best for you. One of the most difficult things I think models deal with is that they see a look that they like and then try to make themselves into that kind of model. A true model, who is looking to make a living in this business, has to look at themselves objectively. They need to remove their personal bias from the equation and answer the question, "What kind of model did God make me?"

I wasted so much time shooting photographs that were not right for me, and at the beginning of a career that can be a disaster. Now I can try different things and sometimes they work and sometimes not, and it is no big deal. I have a lot of great photos and tear sheets so each test shoot is not as critical. So many times I see models afraid to pay a good photographer to shoot, and they end up losing in the long run. For some reason they are afraid to invest in their own career. What is better to invest in then you and your future?

Once you decide that shooting with GOOD photographers is important then you need to get the right look. You may want to be a high fashion model. You may want to be a bikini model. What you need to accept is not what you WANT to be, but what you are. If you are "cute" and 5'6, stop trying to be Giselle. I am not telling you to give up on your dreams. I am saying you should approach them with maturity. If you are cute and 5'6, you can be a Juniors Model. GASP! The horror! Ha-ha. The bottom line is that being a juniors model is great! No better than any other kind of model. Accept who you are...and how wonderful "who you are" actually is. If you have that All-American look, being a high fashion model is probably not right for you. The catalog market is perfect though! You can still have fun and show versatility within your look. If you have that All-American look you may want to start off by getting shots that are kind of Tommy Hilfiger" shots. Once you have that down then vary it by maybe doing something more Nautica or Polo. You can vary to extremes within that kind of look and have fun with that look.

Don't waste your time. Don't be afraid to be you. I see so many models trying to be what they are not. I wasted a lot of time early on, and I see it so much, where models waste time shooting the wrong types of photos. This is a problem with land based models and is even worse it seems on the internet. Be you! God made you that way for a reason! Enjoy it!

OK, now you have great photos. What do you do with them? That is for next time!

- Heather McKee

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