Time for a Photo Shoot. . .

A must have in the modeling industry is photographs of yourself. These photos will help you book jobs... the point of them are to show prospective clients how you look on camera because you don't have any tear sheets.

Find a local photographer that is experienced in fashion/commercial photography. You may have to spend a range from $300-$600 for a 'good' variety of photos to build your book. You can always try Model Mayhem to find a photographer who is looking to 'trade', meaning you help build their book and you will receive photos in exchange, but you may not get the kind of photos you are looking for if they are an amateur. Any experience in front of the camera is much needed to begin your career.

After you book the shoot, find out if they will be having a make-up and hair stylist, which is preferred. If not, find your own on Craigslist or again Model Mayhem. You'll be surprised how many people who are trying to break out in the industry will do things for free that will benefit the both of you. Always bring your own make-up and hair items in your bag, just in case someone is a no-show.

Some photographers will have some wardrobe for you... but to be safe, bring a variety of clothes. Bring colored clothes; no black, white or gray. Make sure to bring your best clothes that are 'camera ready' and your favorite fitted jeans that show off your body. Bring your stilettos! No flip flops. (If you are interested in fitness modeling, bring your tennis shoes)

The day before the shoot...

• Practice your photo movement in the mirror. (Look in magazines or online to get an idea of different poses)
  
• Practice facial expressions, find your better side.
  
• Have your clothes pressed and cleaned.
• Make sure ALL nails are short, clean and clear nail polish.
  
• Wash your hair. (Do not ever go to a photo shoot with wet hair, unless otherwise noted)

The day of the shoot...

• Always arrive at least 10 minutes early.
• Bring water and a magazine.
• Eat a healthy breakfast, and bring a snack.
• .... and work the camera!!

Good luck at your shoot! Be confident in yourself, your going to look and do great!!

Interested in Becoming a Model?

To start off... I'm Misha! I've booked just about any type of modeling job there is, excluding nude modeling.. since I was twelve years old.

I'd love to help anyone who is truly interested in becoming a model or just has any questions about it or the industry.

If you are interested in becoming a model, you need to first start off with yourself. There are many things that will contribute to you wanting to pursue your dream, but there will also be many road blocks ahead.

First is your appearance; including skin, weight, nails, teeth, etc. Your skin must be clear, free of acne. Your weight depends on which type of modeling you'd like to pursue. Nails must be clean, short with clear nail polish, absolutely NO false nails! Teeth should be clean and white. Fashion is a huge part of this industry, obviously, make sure you are up-to-date with your wardrobe by viewing the newest fashion magazines or going to your local fashion boutiques. Your personal appearance is everything!!

Second is your schedule.. do you have enough time to go to castings, book jobs, go to the gym, etc. This industry will not give you any breaks about being late or no shows. Which means more to you... your job, school, family... or to pursue your dream?

Third would have to include your supporters. Do you have anyone or people that support your passion and would do anything to help you seek it? This person or people will be the ones to keep you focused and determined to reach your goal. Do not let anyone stop you from getting what you want.

Becoming a model takes time and effort. Sometime you will miss that shopping trip with your friends to go to a casting that you wait 3 hours in line for, to find out you didn't book the job. Do you want this?!?

My blogs will consist of different techniques to book jobs, how to get started, what to look for, scams vs. real jobs, how much you should be getting, how to get an agent... I have a lot to talk about! :) Keep me updated with any suggestions or topics you'd like me to help you with!