One of the biggest questions I get from folks on social media (other than "send nudes" or "wanna see a picture of my dick?") is how I got into pinup modelling and how other people can get their start. I'll say right now that there's no formula for how to become a pinup model and how to be successful at it. But if you're looking to get into it for fame and money, I'd say you're likely not going to get where you want to be. There unfortunately isn't a lot of paid work in pinup modelling, and only a few people really make it into their careers, like Dita Von Teese, Mosh, or Sabina Kelley. However, you should still pursue it if it's something you want to do. It's fun and empowering and it really can make you feel good about yourself. So for those reasons alone, it's worth it if it's something you're interested in.
Photo by Dana Brushette circa 2014
If you're interested in modelling, a good place to start is at Model Mayhem. While the website was more useful a few years ago than it is now, it's still a good place to start to make connections with photographers, makeup artists, stylists, etc. in your area. If you're looking to do a specific type of shoot, you can place casting calls and people will respond if they're interested in working with you. This is what I did when I was looking for photographers to shoot pinup with, or if I had a specific concept in mind that I wanted to shoot.
It's also a good idea to browse through the local photographers and see who has an active profile. They'll be more likely to answer you if you message them. What's the point in trying to contact someone who hasn't been on the website in several months?
Shot by Dale Benvenuto Photography, hair and makeup by Sarah London circa 2015
Along with this, social media can be very helpful tools for finding photographers to work with and to expand your network. Many different cities have groups for models and photographers to connect with one another, to post casting calls, and to discuss people's work. A very important thing to note is that modelling isn't always safe. I've been very lucky in that I haven't had any bad experiences with photographers, but I have heard horror stories from other models about being assaulted by photographers. Always, always, always research and do a background check on photographers before you work with them. Ask models who have shot with them what they're like and how their experience was. Safety is always the most important thing!
Another important tip I can give is that if you're serious about modelling and you're starting out, it's a good idea to pay a photographer for some good shoots to amp up your portfolio. A lot of people choose not to do this, and it's totally okay, but it's always better to start off with some really great shots if you can. It's an investment, this is how people will see your work and decide whether they want to shoot with you or not. Experienced photographers also know how to direct models, and this experience is invaluable if you want to continue modelling. It'll help you learn what works and doesn't work for you and how to pose without direction.
Shot by Plastic Canon wearing House of Etiquette for FEMME Rebelle, circa 2016
An important aspect of pinup modelling is the styling. Pinup is a very specific look and genre and the styling is a throwback to 1940s-1960s hair, makeup, and clothing. It's a good idea to look into the styles of these eras and find vintage or vintage-inspired wardrobe to shoot in. Hair and makeup can make or break a pinup look so it's important to know how to do these looks. A makeup artist and hair stylist are great to have on shoots, but you may not always be able to find someone so it's a good idea to be able to do these looks yourself. There are lots of tutorials on Youtube for pinup hair and makeup styling that you can find!
Shot by Courtney Reader, hair by Sam's Hair Band, makeup by Erin Wheatley, at Gigi's House of Frills, circa 2017
I hope this has been helpful for anyone looking to pursue pinup modelling, or modelling in general! Let me know in the comments if you have any questions!