KJ Tha Great

Getting started can be one of the toughest hurdles to get over.

Like anything you decide to do with your life, you want to analyze how modeling can impact you long-term. Have it in your head early that your competition is cutthroat, so knowing where you fit in is a MUST. Refer to my previous blog about finding your niche to see what areas are best suitable for you, though keep in mind that it takes patience to develop your theme.

Now to the nit and grit …. investing in yourself. Whatever route in modeling you choose to take, there will be expenses you will have to plan ahead for. Every casting or model call you go to will ask you for a comp card, portfolio or some sort of credentials of any work you’ve done in the past. These are your best professional photos, kinda like a résumé. Book a photographer in your area for headshots; make sure you get a full body photo and a close up. Also, have fun in your shoot, show off your personality, use simple props like glasses, a hat or scarf.

Once you discover your niche, you will find that there’s modeling outside of fashion. There is hand modeling for handbags or nail art, foot modeling for shoes, athletic modeling for sport and workout promotions, human sculptures and body paint modeling, commercial roles for those who want to act or be spokesmodels, and editorial or cosplay modeling that embodies well-known characters. The list goes on and the spectrum is so broad that all you have to do is pick what fits you. The best part about starting a modeling career is having control of the content you wish to see yourself in more.

Notice how I haven’t directed you to be an Instagram or TikTok model, but please don’t think that that’s not a market for you to consider. If anything, build your fan base right where most people feel most comfortable to spend their time, energy, money … hell their lives! It’s incredible to be able to find like-minded people at the touch of your hands. Having an audience can encourage you that much more to reach your goals because they want to see you, so … LET THEM KNOW YOU IS THE SH*T, even when you don’t feel it yet; just remind yourself that you are the jewel here and that you will overcome doubt the more you grow. Trust in the process.