Make Money Modeling

Be a model, make money.

For those of you who spend your free time working hard in the gym, modeling could be for you. Get paid for your discipline by becoming a model. Check out this post from ehow.com on how to make money as a model.

Don't expect to make millions from modeling. While one or two supermodels every decade can command thousands of dollars for each photo shoot, this is definitely the exception rather than the rule. As of May 2008, the median hourly wage for models was $13.18, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Ninety percent of models earned less than $21.10 per hour and the lowest earners made less than $8.32 an hour. Hopefuls must also guard against scams when trying to make a living as a model.

(Similar Posts: How to Make Money Selling Your Photos)

Instructions 

1. Research a reputable agency to apply to. Choose a large agency with exposure to the main modeling markets of Los Angeles, New York and Miami if you are hoping to get regular work.
    
2. Send in snapshots of yourself. Follow the submittal requirements on the agency website for specific details, but typically one or two head shots and three full body pictures will be enough. Use your casual family photographs -- legitimate agencies do not require professional pictures to know whether they are interested in representing you.
    
3. Obtain representation from the agency. Be wary of any agency that asks you for money upfront. You should only have to pay for the printing costs of your composite cards -- also known as zed cards -- and you do not need to waste money on modeling training classes or professional photographs to build your portfolio.
    
4. Order your comp cards. These should display a variety of pictures to demonstrate your versatility and include your statistics such as height, weight, clothing and shoe size. Your agency will distribute your card to potential clients, who will evaluate your look and decide whether they want to meet you face to face.
    
5. Attend "go-sees" -- a meeting with the client -- to get booked for jobs. Always arrive on time, dressed appropriately and with minimal makeup. Be polite, friendly and outgoing, but don't talk too much -- be mindful of the client's time. Be patient. Expect to attend at least 10 go-sees for every job you get.
    
6. Behave with the utmost professionalism on each and every job. This will help to create a good reputation and make it more likely you will be rebooked by the client. Arrive on time, be patient and don't complain whether you must wait around. Avoid conflict and make an effort to get along with your fellow models during the shoot. Listen to the photographer's instructions and follow his direction at all times. Make yourself known as someone who is easy to work with, and you will get more work as a result.
   
   

Tips & Warnings

• Build and improve your portfolio as you go. Add photographs, known as tearsheets, from your paid jobs so you don't spend all your earnings on professional pictures.
• Practice your poses in front of the mirror and experiment with different looks. Become comfortable with your body so you can achieve the pose and look the photographer wants as quickly as possible.
• Don't annoy your agent. Understand that she is busy and don't pester her for work. Respect your agent's time and do what you can to make her life easier. Agents, like anyone else, are more likely to go the extra mile for someone they like and enjoy working with.