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Who owns the copyright to the photographs?
The photographer or the client of a project owns the copyright to the photographs. The only time the models owns the copyright is if the photographer has specifically signed them over as property of the model. This is very seldom done however, and models should not expect to receive negatives or slides as part of their portfolio. They will receive prints from the photographer, and although they have the physical images in their possession, the actual copyright to those images still belongs to the photographer.

How often should I update or change my portfolio?
Since the very nature of modeling and fashion operates on ever-changing trends, so should models too, maintain a constant updating of their book. This is even more true if a model has changed their look by cutting or changing the color of their hair. The portfolio should reflect the model's current look as well as the current fashion trend. Considering all these factors, it is probably a good idea to revamp your portfolio on an annual basis - this could possibly mean replacing every image in the book.

How much money do I need to invest?
The minimum amount to invest is between $500 - $2000 which goes to your comp-cards and portfolio (photographer, make-up artist, prints, etc). This obviously depends on the market you're in.

Should I hire a make-up artist / hair stylist when shooting my portfolio?
Some photographers do everything, hair, make-up and then shoot. I personally don't believe in the "jack of all trades" approach and prefer to specialize in my photography. While I obviously have a thorough understanding of the styling process, I leave that up to a professional make-up artist to handle. Some girls I have come across do their own make-up, but very few are able to do a satisfactory job. I strongly suggest the hiring of a make-up artist because even an excellent job by the photographer in the shooting process could yield an unusable image for the model, if the make-up didn't work properly. Remember, it's the complete image that sells you as a model. A make-up artist usually charges about $70 - $100 a session.

Should I pay an agency up-front to represent me?
Not legitimate ones! They make their money from a 10-25% commission on every job they get you. Be careful of those agencies that charge you for joining them!

What about modeling schools?
This is probably one of the most abused areas of the modeling industry. There are a few good ones out there, but there are some that will take models' money for modeling classes and the models will never work a day in their life. A warning sign for a scam: if the modeling school seems to accept anyone into their modeling classes, chances are that they have no interest in finding work for anyone in their school - they're perfectly happy making their revenue from tuition fees. If you have no desire to work in the modeling industry, then it could be treated as a sort of charm / finishing school.

Someone approached me about modeling, what should I do?
Lots of models are discovered every day by scouts, agents and photographers. There is still reason for caution however, so don't give your last name and phone number to them. Rather take their business card and contact them at your convenience.

Which is better: freelance modeling or having agency representation?
Freelance modeling has become a little easier now with the internet, but for a beginner model, the best way to go is to still sign up with a good and reputable modeling agency. For a new model who knows nothing of the market, they need all the help they can get when it comes to the modeling business.