Types of Models and Modeling Myths

This is a topic that really should have been discussed a long time ago, because these myths NEED to be extinguished. I have had so many people telling me: "Be careful of modeling, they'll make you lose a lot of weight," "Models aren't allowed to eat," and "You'll get an eating disorder." And what I'd just like to say to them is: Have you EVER been a model? No? THEN SIT DOWN AND SHUT UP BECAUSE YOUR ARGUMENT IS INVALID. I don't care if you're some kind of doctor or something, you have no place to say something about something you have never experienced.. NOT every single person is going to "develop health problems" with modeling. If you haven't been in the modeling world, don't assume the "modeling requirements" or that there even are any. Which brings me to my next point, the types of modeling. There are the Runway/Agency Models, who are represented by an agency and told when/where/why (although there is a requirement for these runway models -and even ballet performers, just to bust that myth as well- to be OVER a certain weight, and they are not allowed to model if they are emaciated.) Then there are the Independent models (which I happen to be) who manage and market themselves. I do not have an agent. I choose when I go to a shoot. To quote Pretty Woman (in a different sense): "I say when and I say where and I say how much." I currently model with a group of models & photographers (although I have gotten many offers otherwise). I choose my own wardrobe, makeup, and hair (Although there is almost always a M.U.A.H. present). I choose how I dress & pose. I do NOT dress or pose seductively. yes, I CHOOSE. I am not told by anyone to lose weight, eat less, appear a certain way, because they have no business doing so. If ever asked if I want an agent, I will flatly say no. And by the way, if a model is told to lose weight, that doesn't mean they are suddenly going to develop eating problems. Too many people in society focus on weight loss, but when we see models: OH NO, THEY HAVE EATING PROBLEMS. Have you ever heard that models have been asked to GAIN WEIGHT before? No? Then you're probably only paying attention to meaningless gossip. Also, did you realize that makeup and photo re-touching can be used to make people look more frail and fragile for fine art photography? Well, they can. I've used makeup to look more frail than I am for Tim Burton style photos and also to look like a zombie (hollow eyes, prominent cheek bones and collar bones, etc.) So please think before you spread rumors about modeling.