Modeling in Focus

Amazing Amberlynn Takes the Business of Modeling Seriously
by Elias AllStar OMP Member #10270

Amberlynn (OMP Model #230240) is a classic beauty who also excels in marketing and managing her own career. She reveals how she became so proficient in the business side of modeling and promoting herself.

"Years ago, a photographer -- now a good friend -- approached me with some modeling work and suggested I market myself online. He created a profile on One Model Place for me, taught me how to manage my profile, and that is what got me started getting my image out there. OMP has made it possible for me to manage my own career."

The brunette beauty takes advantage of the many features on the site.

"One Model Place is such a great tool for me because it has a system that allows models and photographers to post travel notices. The travel notices are where I get 60 percent of my jobs. OMP is also a great place to send photographers to see my portfolio. I can't leave out that OMP is where I do a lot of my research on other professionals in the business."

Looking through her stunning portfolio, one would be hard-pressed to guess that Amberlynn has been modeling for a decade.

"I am almost embarrassed to admit how long I have been modeling! I've been modeling for over 10 years, but just in the last two years I have been very actively involved in pursuing modeling as a career."

She got her start as a model when she was in her teens.

"I started out as a teenager -- I was approached by an agency representative to model teen fashions. That was very short-lived but a fun experience. Later I became a mother of three children so needless to say that took priority over taking modeling jobs. Then I got my figure back and was approached by professionals in the art communities to model for a variety of disciplines, including photography."

Amberlynn enjoys all styles of modeling but does have her personal favorite.

"I am a figure model and work mostly in the nude genres. Working in the nude is something I am very comfortable with. I see the experience of modeling nude as quite empowering."

The model relates what makes a photo shoot assignment memorable.

"My favorite photo shoots are the one where the photographer allows me to be a part of the creative process. My shoots with Shutterbug Studio (OMP Member #92315) have been a collaboration of our creativity combining together in unique ways."

Her willingness to travel for photo jobs is a big part of Amberlynn's rise to success in the industry,

"My travel schedules vary through out the year, but I travel nearly every week. This year has been the busiest year yet. I am looking forward to shooting more in tropical locations this winter. No naked snow bunny here!"

Here are some of her tips for models who want to travel.

"If you are a model who is interested in traveling keep in mind the following:
1. SAFETY FIRST...always research the situation and know it is legit!
2. Work on a contract basis. Know what it is you are agreeing to. Keep in mind it takes more time, energy and money to travel. Make it worth it.
3. It takes a lot of responsibility to get involved in this kind of work... operate with integrity and intelligence.
4. Oh, and keep your passport close by! Have fun!"

She also has advice for young models just starting out.

"To models who are starting out, I would suggest to study up. Mostly be clear on what it is you want, and why you are doing what you are doing. Always be nice and responsible. Last but not least, be safe!"

Amberlynn relates what she considers the rewards and challenges of modeling.

"For me, the rewards in modeling are many. I feel so fortunate to be able to do this kind of work and be paid for it. I am passionate about what I do and love my job! I have a sense of accomplishment on a business level, and also it is an avenue to express my artistic side. The challenging side can be the traveling schedules -- they can wipe me out at times. And sometimes negotiations can be challenging."

As we get close to the beginning of a new year, Amberlynn has some very exciting future plans.

"My future plan is to grow my business of Photography Retreats, which are private shoot events for photographers. The events give them the opportunity to work with professional models in exotic locations. The luxury events will be held in Costa Rica starting this coming new year of 2009. I also plan to stay in the best shape possible as I will be continuing to accept modeling offers around the USA, Europe, and South America."