I receive a lot of emails from young women sending me photos of themselves or asking me what they should do to get involved in modeling.

I am not a modeling professional. I have no experience with modeling and what one should do to break into the business. But common since states that one should do some research before sending your photos all willy nilly around the internet.

On the Large and Lovely site at BellaOnline I provide the basic information on contests and models. If you are interested in a modelling career then it is up to you to do the research required to find out the next step. Read the articles, follow the links, plan your moves.

But before you attack the big modeling agencies get out your local telephone books and see if there is an agency near you that can give you some direction on plus size modeling.

For some general knowledge about modeling check out these highly recommended modeling books from Amazon:

* Complete Guide for Models: Inside Advice from Industry Pros for Fashion Modeling

* Wilhelmina Guide to Modeling

* The Complete Idiot's Guide to Being a Model

* Professional Model Portfolios: A Step-by-Step Guide for Photographers

* Model : The Ugly Business of Beautiful Women

For one of the best online resources and community of budding plus size models check out Venus Divas.

Always be prepared. Rejection is part of the business. Don't take it personally. Take it with a grain of salt and move on to the next source.

Good luck following your dreams.

Moe
Large and Lovely Editor
BellaOnline