One)
You need to decide if you are "national" or "regional" material. "National" print models signed by top agencies in markets such as New York, L.A., Paris, Dallas and Las Vegas must be a minimum of 5'8"/5'9" for females or a minimum of 5'11"/6'1" for males. Wide set eyes, straight teeth, and healthy hair with a contemporary haircut is important. The females should be under 22 years old, yet males can have a more mature look so age is less important. The "regional" market is more of an acting/modeling market. Local agencies seek interesting and charismatic individuals of all ages, heights, and talents. If you have an interesting look, it's possible to make money regionally, especially if you have a good headshot, an acting background, or some special ability such as weight lifting, dance, gymnastics, voice work, etc.

Two)
Be prepared to make a financial investment, especially if your goal is the national and international markets. Yet, compared to most businesses, modeling is relatively inexpensive to get into.

Three)
Pick a good photographer who has successful models in their portfolio. Always meet with a photographer instead of choosing them over the phone based on price. High quality photographers will make or break you in modeling. Professional photographers that have developed successful models can give you great photos plus thousands of dollars worth of free information. Make sure the photographer is familiar with different modeling agencies, knows what the latest styles are, and works with the best stylists.

Four)
Practice, practice, practice! There is a huge difference between your first and tenth shoot. Work with a photographer in the studio and on location. Learn basic poses first; once you've mastered these, try action shots such as walking toward the camera or jumps (and smile while you do them!). Start off with black and white photos - they're less expensive; do color shots for your portfolio as you progress.

Five)
Maximize your look. For your photo sessions, hire a good stylist via the photographer. Hair and make-up are as important as the clothes you wear. Before your session, get a good night's sleep and don't drink alcohol. The camera catches what the visible eye can't see. Break your looks into headshots, casual, elegant, sporty, corporate, etc. Variety is important in clothing and hairstyles. Bring props and accessories, but don't bring too much, especially on location shoots.

Six)
Go to the library. Find information regarding contracts and read it! (For example, a two-year contract is better than a four-year contract - you may want to renegotiate after you become successful. You also want an exit clause in your contract that lets you terminate it with written notice in the event you are not getting enough work or don't develop a rapport with your agent.) Also at the library, you can find agents' addresses in the International Model and Talent Directory.

Seven)
Pick a well-known agent/agency that is interested in you and one that is based where you will be living. Especially at first, you want to be near your agent so you can meet with them often. Also, you want an agent who is interested in you and doesn't see you as "just another model". Make sure your agent is licensed and bonded and check the better business bureau for complaints. Watch out for new agencies that often come and go.

Eight)
Get a good answering machine so you can get the word quickly on auditions. Check in with your agent and their secretary each week to see what's going on. Take your portfolio and resume to each audition and be on time!

Nine)
Network with other models. Don't get so competitive that you miss out on sharing information with others who in turn will share it with you. So many ads are looking for a specific look that often you are not in competition as much as an aid to each other.

Ten)
Take care of yourself. Once signed with an agency, it's important to look and feel your best before each photo session. Sleep well, eat well, get plenty of exercise and don't do drugs. Photographers and agents need models who are ready at all times in body, mind and spirit.