So you want to be a model for Grooby?

One of the things I get asked about frequently is how to become a model for Grooby. You can read about the process of how to apply by reading Steven Grooby’s blog post here and filling out the online application form here.

There is still a big misconception among trans women who want to mode is that they have to be tall and thin with big boobs, which is not the case at all. Grooby makes an effort to shoot models of all shapes and sizes and looks. Modeling is more than just about looks, it’s about personality, confidence,  desire and what you bring to the table. But before you apply make sure this is something you really want to do and that you understand the potential ramifications of having your pictures on a porn site, because once those pictures are out there for everyone to see there is no turning back. Make sure you’re okay if your friends and family find out, and how this may affect potential employment opportunities for you in the future. I thought long and hard about whether to do my shoot and had some major concerns, but looking back none the of the things I was concerned about turned out to be an issue. And the modeling opened the door to a lot of opportunities for me.

So now that your application has been accepted and Grooby wants to do a shoot you’ll be contacted by the Grooby photographer assigned to do your shoot to schedule the date, time, and location. You may also receive instructions and tips on how to prepare for the shoot, what to expect, and what to do and not to do, such as don’t be drunk or high for your shoot and don’t bring friends with you. One of the things which will really help is to practice ahead of time what you’ll say during the videos. It helps a lot to know ahead of time what you’ll say so you don’t have to wing it as you go. Practice sounding sexy and seductive, and try to remember that you’re talking to the people watching your video, not the camera. You can also learn a lot by doing a bit of research online about how to be successful in your modeling career. Another great resource is to talk with experienced models and get their perspective. There are a lot of models who are more than happy to help and answer any questions you have.

As the shoot gets closer start getting things ready and schedule what day you’ll do your nails and hair, and when to shave. Shave early enough so you avoid razor rash. Take time to choose your outfits, shoes, and accessories. Having the right outfits and accessories and making sure your makeup, hair and nails look good is one of those things which make a big difference in how well your set does, and it also says a lot about you and your work ethic. Be sure to have everything packed and ready to go ahead of time and that you give yourself enough time to get to your shoot location. The last thing you want to do is have to rush and stress out about being late, because you won’t be relaxed for the shoot. Again, don’t drink, get high, or bring along a friend. Make sure to bring your government issued photo ID and another form of ID, as it will be needed when you sign the legal paperwork.

So now you’re at your shoot and you’re ready to go. One of the biggest mistakes a model can make is to think they know it all and not listen to their photographer and the directions they are giving you. Grooby photographers are all very experienced and among the best in the business, so listen to what your photographer tells you; they are professionals who are good at what they do and know how to get the most out of you. It’s natural that you may be nervous if it’s your first shoot, but again, your photographer will get you to relax.

And for goodness sake, smile or at least look like you’re having fun!! It blows me away how many sets I see where the model is not smiling and looks decidedly unhappy. I get that sometimes the model is going for the seductive look which does not need a big toothy smile, and that there are a variety of smiles ranging from baring all your teeth to a more subtle, shy smile. But time after time I see models who look unhappy, like they’d rather be getting a root canal than doing the shoot. And that is not a look which will gain you many fans. It’s understandable that you might be nervous, but hopefully you will eventually relax as the shoot goes on, and at the very least you can put on a fake smile. I can’t stress the importance of learning to relax and have fun, because if you’re tense it will affect not just your smile but your body language and your poses will look awkward and uncomfortable. Believe in yourself that you can do this! Nothing is sexier than confidence!

But ultimately it’s up to the model whether or not they will smile. But, the bottom line is that this is a business and we are creating a product that needs to please our customers, and frankly, when I look at a set where the model isn’t smiling and looks unhappy, I immediately lose interest and move on. You don’t want to lose fans and customers because you didn’t smile.

The actually shoot is just one part of the process; after the shoot is done and you’re waiting for your sets to be released you need to spend time on social media working to build up your fan base. Set up social media accounts on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook and start networking to gain followers. Follow people in the industry, and that will get you moving in the right direction. And again, there are a lot of good people who are willing to help if you’re not social media savvy.

Another good way to get your face and name out there so people know who you are is with Grooby Girls, which is a site set up for models to promote themselves and for fans of Grooby Girls to see their favorite models. One of the main ways we get to promote ourselves is with Grooby Girls shirts, which are given to models after a shoot and also available for purchase online.

You’ve gotten the opportunity to do a shoot with Grooby, and it’s up to you to make the most of it. The exposure from modeling for Grooby can open a lot of doors and lead to opportunities both in the industry and outside the industry. It’s up to you to decide what direction you want to go and what you hope to gain from it. Success is different for everyone; some people want to be famous pornstars while others want to work behind the scenes, or even pursue a career in an entirely different field. Modeling is like anything else in life; you get out of it what you put into it. So enjoy the experience of getting to be a model and have fun!