"What if someone wants me to model for them?"

Some friends have brought a new clothing business to my attention that is catering to tall women. This type of business should be encouraged, but you need to be careful if someone is approaching you to be a model.

If someone tells you that you can model for them and you are not a professional model, you need to be skeptical. Have they seen you walk? How do you photograph? Etc. etc.

If you agree to an assignment remember that all of your traveling expenses need to be covered and you need to be paid a fee. If any photography is involved you need to make sure there is a model release. If photography is to be used in promotion you should charge accordingly. For small players you usually charge a blanket fee.

Airline tickets and hotel need to be prepaid - I've been burned on that when I was starting. It doesn't matter if this is a well-known company or a complete beginner. If they can't pay your expenses upfront, they probably won't.

Make sure it is clear what is expected for hair and makeup. Most legitimate shows will have makeup artists and hairdressers on staff.

It is unusual to be given clothing, but some small and beginning designers do this instead of payment. Don't do what a friend of mine did and take payment for travel in clothing!! She was given a two low quality dresses and was told they were worth over $1500 each as designer dresses. If you like the clothing, the best policy is to buy it. You can always buy it with your runway fee.

There are otherwise well-meaning companies that have dreams of glory and no cash. They may be convinced they will make it, but you need to be firm and demand what is yours upfront. It is a good test - they aren't legitimate if they can't do that. Paying for a show is a small expense compared to running a business.

I was burned when I was starting and there is no reason you should be: