So, you want to get started as a serious model.  Here are some tips...

Create A Modeling Portfolio: In modeling your portfolio is your meal ticket.  You will need to have a variety of good photos showcasing your versatility to different looks from high fashion & glamour to casual or street style.  As you work with different photographers, continue to build your portfolio and always be sure to include only the best photos in your portfolio.  That brings us to the next part- finding a good photographer.

Find A Good Photographer: There are many resources available to find a good photographer.  One of the easiest methods is to look through issues of Gothic Beauty and note the many different photographers that we work with from Nadya Lev, Brian Bothwell, Kyle Cassidy to Wil Cohen, Annie Bertram Allan Amato and etc.  OneModelPlace on the internet also has a decent listing of good photographers.  If you are serious about modeling, take the time necessary in finding a good photographer and check their references.  We recommend you bring a friend the first time shooting with a new photographer.

Finding Work: This is the goal of any serious model and the competition in finding work is fierce.  However if you have a good portfolio shot by good photographers then you will have an edge because you present yourself professionally.  Fashion Designers are a good source for modeling work.  There are literally hundreds of goth & underground designers out there (just do a Google search on 'gothic fashion' or 'gothic clothing').  These designers are looking for models for their catalogues, web sites, print ads, fashion shows, and other promotional events.  Also look to goth/punk retail stores like Hot Topic for modeling work.  On the downside, goth/punk xxx/nude sites are on the rise and we recommend that you stay away from doing this type of modeling. 

The Right Attitude: Having the right attitude is essential.  You just landed your first paying (or probably non-paying) job- your portfolio, dedication, and research has gotten you this far.  You're on set or on location.  Are you easy to work with?  Can you take direction well?  Don't let a poor attitude or an inability to work with others be the nail that puts your modeling career on hold.  If you're difficult to work with it will not matter if your portfolio is impressive.  Having a positive attitude will open many more doors.

Model & Talent Agencies: The purpose of an agency is to find you modeling work.  An agency will assign someone to represent you to their clients.  We recommend you stay away from agencies that cannot offer this type of personal attention/representation as they often turn out to be scams.  Also be wary if they are asking for money upfront or subscription fees.  If you are with an agency or referral service that is not finding you work, is charging you money, and/or cannot give you personal attention, it may be in your best interests to look elsewhere. 

Modeling is one of the most competitive and artistically rewarding career fields.  These are just a few pointers to help you get started on the right path.