The modeling industry is a hazy shade of gray for most modeling hopefuls. The aspiring model knows where she wants to go but might not have all the information she needs to get there. Some of the more common questions about becoming a model are below.

Do I have to go to New York to really break into modeling?

Not necessarily. New York is North America’s fashion hub, but most of the largest agencies that work in New York have field offices in different areas. The largest cities with populations over a million or two should have prominent modeling agencies as well. If you sign with one of these agencies, however, you can expect to be in New York at some point in your career.

How do I get my portfolio ready to begin modeling?

To get started in modeling, you don’t need a portfolio. In fact, spending money on a professional portfolio can be a terrific waste as most agencies will want you to throw it out and start a new one under their guidance. Rather than worrying about a portfolio, worry about getting a few high quality snapshots you can blow up as headshots to take with you to agencies. The agencies are not looking for portfolios from new models and if you’re asked to assemble one before signing, you’re not dealing with the right sort of agency.

Are modeling jobs overseas safe?

Yes and no. Like all companies, some jobs in Asia and Europe are wonderful opportunities to build your career and portfolio. However, if you accept a job overseas, always bring funds to buy a return ticket should things turn out badly. Unfortunately, some shady practices fly young modeling hopefuls overseas leaving them stranded in the foreign country and often employed in prostitution or other similar situations to try and earn their way back on a plane out of the country again.

I’m short – can I still be a model?

Absolutely. There are many different kinds of models, and not all of them are long, thing runway models. If you’re short, look into character modeling, part modeling, catalog modeling – especially for petite clothing, and real-life modeling.

Are there plus-size male models?

If there are plus-size clothing, there are plus size models. The male plus-size model is often used for husky or big-and-tall clothing styles, especially in catalog work. To find an agency that signs and promotes plus size male models, you’ll need to do the legwork and make some phone calls and schedule interviews and attend open calls.

How much do models make?

The glamorous lifestyle of the model is often misleading. Most models, even the ones with most work, have separate engagements to help pay the bills. There are not runways to walk everyday and even the most successful model eventually have to leave the most active portion of the industry as they age and no longer have the ideal look. The income of a model can range from a few hundred a month for the odd job to millions depending on your level of success.