“This is why I don’t model professionally… yet 😎📷”

 

Let’s get one thing straight right off the bat: I could model professionally. Not in the “my mom says I’m cute” way, but in the “I’ve been approached by agencies, photographers have slid into my DMs, and I’ve been asked to walk for shows” kind of way. I know how to find my light, how to pose with intention, and how to give “effortless” on camera, even if it takes 47 tries and two outfit changes. But despite all of this—despite the allure of the fashion world, the glamor, and the occasional free skincare products—I'm not a professional model.

Not yet, anyway.

There’s a whole lot that goes into modeling that most people don’t see. It’s more than just standing in front of a camera with cheekbones. It’s a job—one that demands not only physical presence, but time, emotional stamina, social strategy, and a whole lot of hustle. Let me break it down for you.

1. Modeling is a Business—Not Just a Look

Most people think modeling is just about being photogenic. That’s a big part of it, sure, but in today’s industry, you also need to be a content creator, a networker, and sometimes even your own manager. You have to track invoices, negotiate contracts, and keep your portfolio updated while making sure your online presence is always on point. Instagram alone could be a full-time job.

To do it professionally means treating it like a business, not just a hobby. And right now, I’m not ready to make that shift. I respect the hustle too much to half-do it. If I’m going to model professionally, I want to go all in—with strategy, intention, and a plan that aligns with the rest of my life goals.

2. I Value My Creative Freedom

Modeling can be creatively fulfilling, but only when you’re in control. When you model professionally, you’re often not. You’re being directed—sometimes to pose in ways you wouldn’t naturally choose, wear clothing that doesn’t reflect your personal style, or sell products that don’t align with your values.

Right now, I get to collaborate on my terms. If I shoot, it’s because I like the photographer’s style or believe in the project. I can say no without worrying about a black mark on my agency’s radar. I can dress how I want, pose how I feel, and edit how I see fit. That creative control is hard to give up, and honestly, I’m not ready to.

3. The Industry Still Has Work to Do

Let’s be real—the fashion and modeling industries are evolving, but they’re still not perfect. Diversity is growing, but representation is far from balanced. Body standards are shifting, but slowly. Some agencies and clients still operate on outdated ideas of beauty, age, and gender. And then there’s the lack of transparency, exploitative practices, and blurred lines between professionalism and pressure.

I want to walk into the industry with my eyes wide open, not starry-eyed. If I’m going to model professionally, I want to partner with agencies and brands that are actually doing the work to be inclusive, ethical, and forward-thinking. That takes time to research and build. I’m in no rush to jump in blindly.

4. Timing Is Everything

Right now, I’ve got other priorities. Whether it’s school, work, personal growth, or building other creative projects, modeling—while tempting—isn’t at the top of the list. And that’s okay.

The beautiful thing about the modeling world now is that there’s less of a deadline. Age and background aren’t the rigid barriers they once were. You don’t have to be “discovered” at 15 to have a career. There are models thriving at every stage of life. That means I can take my time. I can say “not now” instead of “never.” I can prepare mentally, physically, and emotionally for what modeling might require of me—and still arrive fashionably late.

5. I’m Still Defining Why I’d Do It

At the end of the day, I want to be intentional. I don’t want to model just to model. I want to ask myself: What’s the story I’m telling? What’s the message I want to share? What do I stand for? Right now, I’m still figuring that out. Modeling professionally would mean becoming a public figure, to some degree. It means being a brand. Before I step into that space, I want to be solid in who I am and what I represent.

Because yes, I love the camera. I love the fashion. I love the collaboration. But I also love purpose. And when I step into this space for real, I want to bring all of me—not just the face.

So, for now, I’m staying in the “almost” zone. The “not-yet” space. Still playing, still growing, still snapping some heat for the feed every now and then. But know this: if and when I do decide to go pro, I’ll do it with clarity, conviction, and a whole lot of confidence.

Until then, don’t be surprised if you catch me serving face in your explore page.

Watch this space. 😎📷