Expert: Kitty Kavey - 8/29/2006

Question
i am in my mid-twenties and i am 5'11'' with broad shoulders and a thin frame. people always ask me do i model and i sheepishly tell them no. i've never tried modeling except for a couple of informal picture taking moments with friends. i am an america's next top model junkie so i watch closely the competitions they have to compete in. it seems to take a lot of body confidence and body awareness to model. i think i have the body for modeling, but not sure i have the skills. i live near atlanta and have heard there is a print market here, but i wouldn't want to contact an agency if i can't deliver the goods should a job come out of it. how do models learn how to become comfortable in front of the camera? do you believe this is an inherent skill or something that can be learned? where should i start honing these skills?  

Answer
Learning to become comfortable doing a lot of things is just taking the time to practice, as it is with modeling.  While it might be easier to model if you love the feeling of being in front of the camera and the center of attention, you can certainly grow more comfortable as time passes.  
The only thing that cannot be taught as far as modeling goes is one's photogenic qualities.  It is a saying "the camera loves you" (or alternatively it may not.)  There are certainly a few people who no matter what they do, or how comfortable they are, the camera does not capture them well.  But confidence can be learned, shyness overcome, and insecurities buried by skill.  
My suggestion is to contact your local photography schools or classes (often given by community colleges and adult learning centers).  Volunteer to model for their students.  Often they have boards where you can post a notice.  If you're both learning new skills, perhaps you would feel more comfortable.  
At times it can be easier to have a discussion about what look you're trying to convey, what angles work for you best, or how a garment is showing in frame when you're not on the clock, trying to get the shot before the light fails and the client is upset.  It can be a relaxing and fun (and free!) way to practice, and you can always request that they give you the best shots from your shoot to use.  
Good luck to you,
~Kitty