- Sasha Nicole
- Apr 4
- 7 min read
Updated: Jun 25
Getting Started in Modeling
With no idea where to begin, I did the only thing that made sense—I started researching. I looked up local photographers and studios, found ones whose work I liked, and started reaching out.
Here’s what I learned quickly: not everyone will respond. Some ignored my messages, which felt discouraging. Others replied that they didn’t need a model at the time. But then—I got one Yes. And that’s all I needed to get started.
💡 Tip: When reaching out to photographers, keep it professional but personal. Introduce yourself and explain why you’re interested in working with them.
Step 2: Learning from Experience
My first photoshoot was not just about getting cute photos—it was about stepping into something brand new, unsure but excited. I didn’t pretend to know everything. I asked questions. I watched, listened, and soaked up everything I could. I wasn’t just there to model; I was there to learn.
And no, I wasn’t trying to be perfect. I was just trying to grow. I learned how lighting could change my whole face and noticed how one angle made me feel strong while another felt awkward.
I started to appreciate the power in the little things—my hands, my eyes, the way I stood. It wasn’t just posing. It was storytelling. It was energy. At the end of the shoot, I had my first real set of professional images. They weren’t flawless, but they were me. A new chapter had begun, and even though I was still figuring it out, I had taken the first step.
💡 Tips and Insights:
✔️ Be curious. Ask questions. Observe what works. The more you learn, the more you grow.
✔️ Practice. Learn your angles and how your energy translates.
✔️ Bring your personality. Anyone can pose—but you bring the spark.
✔️ You don’t need to have it all figured out. Take the shot, make mistakes, and learn from them.
✔️ Confidence is built, not bought. The more you practice, the more natural it feels.
Step 3: Navigating Castings & Facing Reality
Now that I had my headshots, I thought, Okay, what’s next? The answer? Start submitting them. I applied for castings and agencies, attended open calls, and sought new opportunities. Eventually, I received an invite to an exclusive model casting.
It felt like real progress. I passed the first round of interviews and was moving forward. The nerves kicked in as I prepared. I wore a black top and dark dress pants—simple, professional, and safe. A small part of me wished I had worn something pink, something that felt like me, but this was my first casting, so I followed the recommended wardrobe.
Walking into the room, I was excited to see so many others my age chasing the same dream. Everyone was polite, the casting director seemed kind, and the energy was buzzing. But as the process unfolded, I realized that there were a few things I wish had gone differently.
First—digitals. I thought I was prepared, having researched. But there is a huge difference between reading about something and experiencing it. When my name was called for digitals, I expected some guidance, but instead, I was rushed through it.
There was no explanation of how to pose or what expressions to use. It was just click, click, click—and done. I stood there, second-guessing every movement, wondering if I was doing it right. I had assumed, since it was a “new model” casting, that there would be some coaching. That was my mistake.
Then came a second realization—everyone else seemed to know what type of modeling they wanted—except me. But instead of letting that discourage me, I saw it as a sign that I had to do this my way.
Not by following someone else's path but by doing what I love—infusing my personality and style into it. It wasn’t going to be easy, but I was ready to forge my own journey.
When the results came in, they were looking for something specific—and I wasn’t it. Ouch. That stung a little. But here's the thing: the win wasn’t in being chosen. The win was in showing up, pushing myself, and proving to myself that I could do this.
And honestly? I was so proud of that.
Step 4: Embracing Freelance Modeling
The traditional route wasn’t cutting it. I wasn’t making as much progress with agencies as I wanted, so I decided I wouldn’t sit around waiting for someone to tell me I was good enough. If I wanted this, I had to take control. So, I chose the freelance route.
This change felt right. Freelance modeling allowed me to work on my terms—no gatekeepers or waiting for someone to give me a chance. I reached out to photographers, creatives, and brands directly. I started building my own portfolio, creating my own opportunities, and doing it with my spark.
I worked on shoots ranging from vintage pin-up to street photography, blending elements from old Hollywood to whimsical pink energy. Each shoot was an opportunity to experiment, learn, and become more comfortable in front of the camera.
But let’s be real—freelancing isn’t easy. The downside? Work isn’t guaranteed. Some weeks are filled with opportunities while others can be quiet. It’s a hustle.
But that’s the trade-off. I didn’t want to wait for permission anymore. The challenge was worth it.
💡 What I've Learned from Freelance Modeling:
✔️ Try different styles. You don’t know what works for you until you explore.
✔️ Work with various photographers. Each new collaboration adds something fresh. You grow with each shoot.
✔️ Confidence is key. The more you shoot, the more relaxed you'll feel. Own every frame.
✔️ It’s not always steady. Freelance work can be unpredictable, but hard work pays off.
I took a chance on myself. And yes, it's not always smooth sailing, but that’s how I found my stride—doing it my way.
✨ Final Thoughts: Rewriting the Rules in Pink ✨
Starting modeling with no connections and no experience? It’s not easy. It’s still not easy. There are days I feel stuck. Moments where I question if I’m doing enough, and times when rejection makes me doubt everything. But deep down, I know this is my calling. Modeling ignites something in me I can’t explain—it’s part of my purpose.
I’m still chasing it. Still showing up. Still fighting for a space that reflects me. While I’d love to be signed to an agency—not just any agency, but one that truly believes in me—it hasn’t happened yet. That’s okay. Because I’m not waiting to be chosen. I’m choosing myself every day I keep going.
Freelance modeling isn’t always stable, but it has been a space for freedom, creativity, and authenticity. It has helped me grow, build my portfolio, and define what kind of model I want to be. It’s not about fitting into someone else’s idea of beauty. It's about rewriting the rules—in pink, of course.
On top of it all, I run my own business. Balancing both is a challenge, but being a businesswoman has taught me so much. I’ve learned to lead, market myself, and stay disciplined—skills that translate directly into my modeling.
Looking back, I see modeling was always within me, even when I didn’t know it. I recognize the spark—the love for dressing up, experimenting with fashion, and expressing myself creatively. Every shoot, every pose, every moment in front of the camera is me living out that passion I've always had.
No, this journey hasn’t been smooth. And no, I don’t have it all figured out. But I do have drive, passion, and purpose—and that’s what propels me forward.
If you’re starting out, or if you feel behind—you’re not. You don’t need permission. You just need to start.
Because the moment you stop waiting to be chosen... is the moment you realize you’ve already been becoming the one to watch. 💖
Tips – From Someone Who’s Been There
I know firsthand how overwhelming this journey can be, especially when you're just starting. But here’s the deal—you don’t need to have it all figured out. The key is to take that first step and keep moving forward, learning and growing along the way. It’s all part of the process. You’ve got this, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. 💖
💻Social Media: Your Digital Portfolio
When I first started, I had no idea what my “niche” was—and honestly, I didn’t need to. I just loved being creative and expressing myself through modeling. Over time, I didn’t just find a niche—I found my purpose.
Social media played a massive role in that. It became more than just a place to post pretty photos. It became a space to grow, experiment, connect, and show who I really am—not just how I look.
But I’ll be honest: it’s not always easy. Seeing others “blow up” or book big campaigns can make you doubt your own progress. It’s easy to fall into comparison and feel like you’re behind.
But the truth is? Your following doesn’t define your value. What matters is how you show up, how you treat people, and how much heart you bring to your work. If you’re doing what you love and staying true to yourself, that’s already a win.
💡 Here are some things that helped me:
✔️ Don’t stress about having a perfect “niche.” Explore until something clicks.
✔️ Post content that feels you—not just what’s trendy.
✔️ Engage genuinely with others. Build real connections.
✔️ Use your platform with purpose. Let your feed reflect your passion.
You don’t need to fit into a box. You're allowed to be the main character in your own story. And social media? That’s just one of your stages. 💖
Mastering Posing & Angles
Modeling isn’t just about looking good—it’s about knowing your angles. Posing is a skill, and like any skill, it takes practice. Some practice in front of a mirror, which can help. But the downside? You get used to seeing yourself while you pose. When you're in front of a camera, there’s no reflection—just the lens.
A better way to practice:
📸 Use your phone’s rear-facing camera. Set it up at eye level or slightly lower.
🎥 Hit record and start posing. Move through different angles and expressions.
🔍 Review the footage. This lets you see how you actually look—not just how you think you look.
Common Posing Mistakes to Avoid:
🚫 Over-posing – If you’re too stiff or exaggerated, it looks unnatural. Relax and let the movements flow.
🚫 Same expression in every shot – Agencies love versatility. Practice a range of emotions.
🚫 Ignoring hands – Awkward hand placement can ruin a shot. Keep them soft and natural.
🚫 Not knowing your angles – Everyone has a best side. Learn yours and use it!
The Bottom Line
You don’t need connections or years of experience to start modeling—you just need to take that first step.
Believe in yourself. Take yourself seriously, even when no one else does.
Put yourself out there. Be bold, make mistakes, and keep pushing forward.
Never stop learning. The more you experiment, the better you get. Progress comes from practice.
Your journey is yours to create, so embrace it fully. Trust the process, stay authentic, and remember—you’re already making moves toward where you want to be. 💖
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