Passion

In my opinion, what separates the good models from the other regular, run-of-the-mill models, is passion. When you're passionate about what you do and give your all each time, you will become a master of your craft.

I can't stand to watch models pose on a shoot who just go through the motions. When you're trying to build your portfolio and strengthen your ties with others in the industry, you can't afford to slack. Lack of interest in what you're doing, going through the motions and just being plain fake about it will show through in your photos. To the untrained eye they will look great but to someone in the modeling field, whose input counts, they won't be impressed.

Many people make fun of Tyra for always going on about having "dead eyes" and how you need to have fire in them when you pose. There is so much truth to these statements. You can tell when a model's eyes look "dead" or vacant. You never want that. No matter how spectacular the outfit is or how amazing the background looks, just that one factor alone can make an image useless.

When I was shooting for my 2007 calendar, there were instances where I just had to take a break, walk away, take a breath, and come back to the set and refocus because I would lose my fire. My stylist called me on it everytime. I'd shake it off and try again until I got it right. There is so much expression to be found in your eyes...and this is where having a passion for what you do really comes into play. You can look bored in a photo as part of the theme but still have drama in your eyes. You can pose as an innocent schoolgirl but possess a seductress's "come hither" stare. It's all about finding the right balance.

In order to be serious about this field, you have to have the passion and attitude and it needs to be "on" at 100% everytime you step out in front of a camera.