We recently received a question from a model (copyedited slightly):
I could use so much advice. I am a porn/webcam model and I do videos as well, but I am not having luck with men tipping me on [cam]. Every time I am on, I barely make anything but I hear girls are making bank. I’ve been doing it for seven years, but no matter how I up my game or try, it doesn’t work. What can I do?
This question is giant – so many factors could be at play. It’s almost totally unanswerable, but also important to consider what advice people would offer based on their experience or perspective.
We decided to reach out to some super experienced, yet super different, webcam professionals to see what advice they would offer this model. Let’s read what Vanessa Eve, Amberly Rothfield and Catherine Tayler have to say.
Vanessa Eve — Director of Talent Recruiting, Streamate Network
This is a pretty complex question, which could have many different answers. My best advice would be this: There are things that are just going to be out of your control when it comes to camming, so I like to encourage models to focus on the things that they are able to control themselves.
First, make sure that your streaming set-up is dialed into what your cam network is looking for in terms of optimal placement on the site. This includes checking your Internet speed, making sure your computer meets required streaming recommendations, using Encoding software, using an HD webcam, etc. Optimizing placement will only get you in front of a larger audience- all that time you’re putting in won’t mean as much if nobody (or a smaller fraction of viewers) can see you.
Also, although most cam networks provide models with traffic and exposure, it’s really important to also promote yourself consistently and often from your end. This includes keeping in constant contact with your fans by way of social media — and not only when you need or want them to do something for you. Wishing them a great day, showing yourself working out at the gym, sharing news about upcoming shoots or projects – quality engagement like this and building rapport with your fans will only serve you in the form of long-term, loyal followers so that when you are online, these will be the people who are more inclined to join your show.
Finally, I’d say it’s a good idea to record your shows and watch them back (if you haven’t already). Take a hard look at what appears to generate results for you and what could possibly stand for improvement. At what points do people tend to drop off the radar in your chat room? Are you engaging your viewers? There’s always room for improvement, so don’t hesitate to mix things up every once in a while and experiment.
Amberly Rothfield — Phone sex operator, cam model and author
The best advice I could give you is not my advice at all! It comes from the Wholesome Addiction podcast (episode 299) with guest Alexxxis Allure.
In today’s age, we can no longer do one thing and make thousands — we have to do a thousand things and make 10s. Post yourself on EVERY site possible. Use Bing, NOT Google, and find forums and places to post your content for free.
People no longer just buy when they see something. They want to engage first before they vote with their dollars. Do not be afraid to take free photos, and place on every place that allows you. Reddit and even Pinterest have several adult-friendly spots on them. Dig them out! Ask guys who come your way where they find their favorite porn clips. My clients are who keep me up to speed on where I should be.
Catherine Tayler – Cam model and founder of boutique marketing service, AltGirlMedia
No matter who I speak, to it’s the same thing – [You] are not alone at all! This is a huge subject, so in a nutshell…
Never take what others say to heart too much, ever. Over time, it has become a struggle for everyoneunless you’re willing to “go the extra mile” so to say. Meaning, working your fucking ass off 24/7 camming, tweeting, posting, replying – It’s never ending, but has to be done to stay relevant. Honestly, I think concentrating on what is bringing you the most revenue at the moment — cam or not — and still updating stuff that isn’t so much (knowing though that it can change as it has over the years) is important, but trying to do everything all at once is gonna burn you out.
I’ve been in the biz for nine years now, and it’s so saturated now that you gotta bust your girl balls more than ever. Social media is where it’s at these days to get your own traffic. Or, perhaps try a new cam site that still offers what you’re comfortable with but has new traffic. You can send your social media fans to your new site with your higher payout link.. Sometimes moving can be a really good thing! (Scary though.)
I hope this helps. And really, I fucking get it. Big hugs!
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Erika is a sex positive people watcher (and writer). Email her at erika@ynotcam.com.
Image via BSK.
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