So you want to work the Miami market? Sure, who doesn't! I mean, come on. The sand, the sun and scantily clad beautiful people parading down Ocean Drive . But are you disciplined enough to actually work in this atmosphere? It takes a LOT of dedication to stay on track with your career when you are in the midst of one of the greatest party cities in the world.

First things first. You need an agency. The Miami market is busiest between the months of November and March. The time when everyone is shooting for spring and summer and trying to escape the cold! Plan ahead. Start sending your comp card, copies of your book, and polaroids to the agencies at least a month before you plan to go. That way, you'll have time to figure out which agencies you want to go see, but more importantly, which agencies want to see you!

Once you have your list of agencies ready to go see, then start packing your bags. I suggest staying in a hotel or with a friend for the first week while you choose your agency (or they choose you). Once you settle on an agency, you can move into their model apartment. Beware! The model apartments are usually very crowded so be sure to pack light. I didn't!! Also, get ready to give up your privacy because there will be models on top of models in the apartments!!

So now you are a repped model living it up in South Beach . But don't let this go to your head! The clubs in South Beach love models and are all up and down the beach strip on Collins Avenue and Ocean Drive . The clubs don't ID if you are a model. Models attract men who buy them drinks and make the club money. Do not fall victim to the party scene or you'll live to regret it. Models in Miami need to be very physically fit. Most shoots are outdoors or on the beach. Also, it is a great market for swimwear shoots. So make sure you arrive and remain in tip-top shape ready for anything.

The Miami market is host to many European clients who enjoy shooting there due to the picturesque beaches and year round near perfect weather conditions. It can be a very catalog and commercial market. The girls who are trim and lean, with heights in the 5'8" to 5'10" range work well. There is little to no runway so the more editorial fashion models may prefer to stick to the New York , Milan or Paris markets.

Miami is a fun market to work in. Its very relaxed and moves at a slower pace then other markets. It's also very casual in its feel, less stressful. But please remember, you are there to work. Take advantage of the gyms, which are many. Some agencies are offered reduced rates and align with gyms to give models memberships. Take advantage of all the superb seafood, fresh fruits and veggies in the area. You will want to try some of the wonderful Cuban fare that Miami is famous for. But be sure to watch your alcohol intake. Beer bellies do not make for good swimsuit shots.

Go for a swim, enjoy the sun. Dig your toes in the sand! Get that beautiful golden glow going on. Make some friends in your sure-to-be-cramped apartment. Fortunately the gorgeous weather will keep you outside most of the time. But most of all, go to Miami and make some money. Both you and your agency will be happy about that!!! Bienvenidos a Miami !!!