You part-time model? That's pretty awesome. I'm looking to get into that, but there isn't much locally and stuff in the nearby cities cost money =(

What kind of modelling have you done?

Actually, I currently model full-time. I was retired, but this is my calling, so I came back. When I have children, they will be my priority, so I will cut down to part-time or retire again.

Unless you are wanting photographs for your book from a specific photographer that is unwilling to work for trade, or pay with you, NEVER ever pay a single cent upfront for modeling work. Also, if traveling is difficult for you, don't even think about dealing with the industry. To model full-time, you either have to live in a major metropolitan area with a strong market (NY, Paris, Tokyo, Los Angeles, Milan and so forth) or travel like a crazy mofo as I do. Here's my post from my modeling industry blog about how to get started and what to expect from the industry:
http://www.allpurposemodel.com/2006/11/how-do-i-become-model.html

My main advice is show up sober and on time, don't be a diva, and follow direction. You'd be surprised as to how many people don't do that. Also, make sure to have a thick skin and strong self-esteem, because no one is EVER perfect enough. Also, be sure to remember to be selective about your work. You career is only as good as your last assignment. It's a really brutal business.

As for my work history, you can look at it here:
http://www.modelmayhem.com/member.php?id=10260

Edited at 2008-04-02 05:56 pm (UTC)

Thanks. That helps. But I am looking for commercial modeling, because I'm just not physically cut out for high fashion. I desperately wish I could model high fashion, but I'm only 5'3" ^_^;

But I'll definitely check those out and see what's going on.

But I have a different question. Have you ever heard of ITS (International Talent Showcase)? That's the main thing I got accepted to and would have had to pay for. It's not an agency, it introduces you to them, but it costs like crazy. It would be $2500 plus my own travel/accomodation costs to Florida (I'm a NYer) to just be introduced to agencies...I'd be trained and then presented to NY Models, Elite, etc. And out of only a very few people that got accepted, I did. That's great...but are these things scams? Have you heard of them? They claimed Cindy Crawford and Mina Suvari got started through them.

Apologies for being overly inquisitive ^_^;

Cindy Crawford was discovered by a photographer, won a John Casablancas (a poise school) contest and was represented by Elite, until she formed Crawdaddy Inc. Mean Suvari is a Wilhelmina model. ITS is a load of horseshit. Seriously, read the resources I shared.

If you are already in NY, you have a big advantage over other people in the industry. If you can use the subway, or take a cab, you have transportation. You need to get some decent color photos to get your foot in the door. Once you get the photos, get a free profile on One Model Place and on Model Mayhem.

Go to Backstage and Craig's List New York Talent and Event Gig section, every day, and look for modeling jobs, promotion gigs, film and play auditions. If you don't have an agency, I highly suggest you read the articles I sent for safety tips. Remember, if you have to pay for a job, it's a scam. New York has work practically every day, so if you do your part, you will not starve.
http://www.backstage.com/
http://newyork.craigslist.org/evg/
http://newyork.craigslist.org/tlg/

Also, look in the newspapers. Lots of great opportunities happen there. I know this because I lived in New York.

If you want promotions experience ASAP (and that will be helpful for commercial work) and have no shame about being a glorified sample lady, apply here:
http://encorenationwide.com/
https://www.stayingconnected.com/main.jsp
Be sure to keep a list of clients.

Now, if you find paid work within the next few months, please let me know. Then, and PayPal me enough cash for a beer and a meal, or send me a gift certificate as a thank you. I just saved you thousands of dollars and I guarantee better results.

Sound good? :)