If you want to get paid to model someday, you will absolutely need an impressive portfolio. Photographers, agencies and magazines want to see that you can achieve the look they want before they hire you. It may cost you some money and it will definitely take some time. But there is no short-cut to becoming a professional model. If it's your dream, then you have to make it happen. If you have to hire a photographer to get great shots, then do it.  If you get TFP (trade) offers from photographers whose work you like, then work with them. Don't waste months or years expecting someone else to pay for building your portfolio. Modeling websites are full of model profiles that never move beyond the snapshots because they think they should get paid even though they have NO experience. Being cute is not the same as being a model. Just like acting or singing, modeling is a skill, and it takes a lot of practice. Your modeling skills (and your portfolio) can only improve by being in front of the camera. Shoot every chance you get. I have worked with professional models - and with many girls on their very first shoot. There's no comparison in how productive they are. Experienced models can strike a series of poses without being told, can create any mood on cue. Experienced models create more quality images per hour. When you're being paid by the hour, productivity is everything. Please be aware that models have a very well-deserved reputation for being flaky and unreliable. It may sound like a cheap stereotype but, ask any photographer or model agency and they will tell you that prompt, reliable models are very much the exception. Success in the world of modeling requires networking and referrals.   So if you want photographers to: refer you to their clients, think of you when those dream gigs come along, recommend you to other photographers , and let you know of all the other gigs that we hear about, then please:   - answer your e-mails and phone messages promptly - show up (preferably on time) - call if you can't make it to a shoot (preferably the day before) - show respect for everyone involved in the shoot - do not gossip about other models or photographers while at the shoot - plan ahead so you can look your best for the shoot   Cancellations are forgiven, no-shows are not. So with all that out of the way, welcome to the wonderful world of glamour modeling. I really do enjoy working with new models and am more than happy to teach you everything I can. Thank's for taking the time to read this. I look forward to working with you. Good luck !