So my kiddo is taking a nap, so I figured I'd have time for a quick blog. Any other models out there? I get asked random questions all the time haha. "How did you get started?" "How do I do what you're doing?" " Does it pay well?" Well, I always encourage people to book a shoot and see if they like it. Every women deserves to play dress-up for a day and get pretty pictures. I started when I was 18 and participated in a modeling competition in my hometown. The prize was a $600 tattoo, and a girl and I tied. We decided to just split the prize. I then got pregnant at 19 and stopped modeling. I worked over 40 hours a week in order to provide for my baby. I was terrified, but excited. After losing the baby weight, I asked my husband if he was comfortable with me getting back into modeling. He answered that as long as I am ok, then he is ok. I then started modeling up again this year and have been published 4 times so far! My first publication was with FemmeXposure Magazine. I shot with Dave Kay and was in the May edition this year. I then got offered to model for Zuri Perle (a beautiful African necklace). I did an advertisement for them, and it was such a fun shoot! My third publication was with Brian DeMint. Brian has become a close friend and has absolutely breathtaking work. I am honored to work him and plan on more projects. We got a 6 page spread in Conceptual Magazine. Fourth publication was with Brian again but for Beaux Couture Magazine.. let's just say, my husband wants to get a huge copy to put in our house. This set is definitely one of my favorites so far.
Photo Credit Dave Kay
Photo Credit Patty Ingalls for Zuri Perle
Photo Credit Brian DeMint
Modeling is not just looking pretty. You have to be able to pose and do facial expressions. My earlier work is not near this great. I had to work hard and the more shoots I did, the more comfortable and better I got at it. Build a portfolio and then use it to book paid jobs. It is not the most reliable form of money. You can book multiple shoots in a week, and then the next week it could be nothing. I also travel a lot for work. So don't think it is the easiest thing. But if a shoot goes the way it should, it is a blast! Also, always take someone with you when working with new people. Safety first. Never be scared to ask for references and take the time to look at their photos before working with them. Also, keep in mind that you should always credit a photographer. It shows true professionalism and means a lot. Don't use Instagram filters on photos that photographers have spent hours editing. Have you ever tried editing a photo? It is time consuming. Keep in mind, you're not always going to be picked for every project. I have even been turned down before, because I am too tiny or other attributes. I hope everyone here enjoys these photos as much as I do. There was work put into these, and the outcome is so incredible. Modeling allows you to see some cool places and be a part of that setting. You also meet creative people and get to see their true vision. I love working with photographers that have a story or a unique concept. It is also neat to see all the different styles people choose to do. Everyone has their own touch and getting to experience it first hand is super cool. Well, I feel that is all I have to say for now. If interested in buying any of these magazines with these sets, I can comment the links. (:
~Katy
