Photos - what to do

Photos are a vital step towards a successful modelling career. Get inspiration by looking through magazines, brochures, websites and catalogues to find a photographic style that suits you.

Make sure you get some really good face shots and full length body shots. A good photographer can be expensive but without a great portfolio, you'll find it harder to get noticed. If you send amateurish snapshots to agencies, you won't get far. Choose a good photographer: someone who knows all about backgrounds, lighting and the various techniques used to show models off to their best advantage. Before you agree to take on a professional photographer, take a careful look at their portfolio - if you like the style and the general layout, add them to your list!

Whichever photographer you choose, take a friend or relative with you so you feel more relaxed and confident, especially if you're stripping down to your underwear! Try to look natural and don't over-pose.

A good photographer can assist your career, and some agencies and magazines even have a list of preferred photographers. Establish the sort of photographic style that the magazines you like are looking for and send in photos bearing that in mind. If they like what they see, you might even find a shortcut into the market!

Remember that people will often tell you what you want to hear because they're selling you their services. Don't let them exploit your aspirations. Do your very best, let your career take it's own path but don't try to buy success by spending lots of money. If you're going to make it, you'll make it.