"Oh, So You're An IG Model?!"

Why is it that people look down on Instagram models? More than likely, this title was loosely thrown at the 'model' by on-lookers who saw their large following and beautiful photos, then assumed modeling was their profession. But if it was, why would this be a problem? It actually shouldn't be and those who use the term "IG model" as an insult are so oblivious to it's monetary opportunity.

"But What Do You Do?"

When done right, what an IG model does is be themselves and reap the benefits of paid promo requests and other business opportunities as their online presence grows. In my situation, I had my well-paid government job and my IG gig on the side. I made 3x more money with my IG gig! So with this extra money, I funded my own businesses, was able to leave my government job and pursue my photography & entrepreneurial dreams. All thanks to social media!

People Think Negatively On Things They're Afraid To Do Themselves

Many of the people who talk down on Instagram hustlers are people who haven't adapted fully to the idea that IG can be a goldmine to those who know how to use it. Their lurking and negative comments are still giving your profile activity, which then increases your social media algorithms. Your haters can be a blessing! Keep thriving.

"How Do I Become An IG Model?"

"Anybody can do it", but it takes guts and consistency. Here are a few steps on how I personally grew my social media following:

• Became confident in myself - this gig is not for the faint of heart. Do your thing confidently.
• Selfies! Selfies! Selfies! - people respond better to self-taken photos, they feel more relatable.
• Remained active on all my social media platforms - consistent content is key. Try apps like Hootsuite and Preview to schedule posts.
• Used hashtags and geo-locations to push images in front of more eyes.
• Networked with other social media personalities - cross-promotion helped acquire each other's viewers.
• Responded to my DM's - ignoring compliments is bad for business.
• Got professional photos taken - check out Opulux Designs Photography (Tampa, FL) for a professional shoot.
• Built a personal website - eventually learned to build them myself (Sincerely Isyss, Opulence Clothing, Opulux Designs) and saved tons of money.
• Maintained a pleasant personality with everyone I met. First impressions are everything.

Don't Try To Change Their Minds

The most difficult hurdle in this game is getting over what people may say about you. Having thick enough skin to keep doing you regardless of anyone's opinion is easier said than done. But once achieved, you will be a force to be reckoned with. Fuck it up, Buttercup!