Have you ever felt like there’s so much information out there – so many details and processes to figure out – that sorting through it seems a little overwhelming? This definitely can happen when you first come to webcam, especially if you don’t have a friend or confidant to at least kinda break down the n00bie ropes.
We recently received a question that said, essentially, “I don’t understand any of this, where do I start?” After making sure I understood the question — and truly, got an idea of how really new to the idea of webcam the model was – I struggled to respond with anything more than more questions for the inquisitor to consider.
I thought I’d check the interwebs for any recent, new tips on how to get started — and how to make the start easier.
Here’s a good one:
I want to become a cam model, but I can’t do it yet for a couple reasons… So I’m wondering if there’s anything I can do while I wait to make the start a bit easier and quicker for myself. The main thing I can think of is a part-time job and saving money for equipment and props, but are there any other things I can do now to prepare myself for when I eventually can start?
One person had some sage advise when it came to amassing stuff: You can amass a costume or toy collection, but I would advise against spending a lot of money before you start. You might not like it, and it may not make you a lot of money right away.
Another person suggested: Really, I would just save up money for lights and props and costumes if you’re looking to get started.
The key important thing that stood put to me with this piece of advice was the saving up funds verses possibly buying or spending. If there are pending factors that have to resolve before this new model can get going, it’s probably wiser to wait until they are closer to go-time before shelling out cash. Technology changes quickly, they may decide on one format or another, or – being realistic – they may decide never to start. Better to get together a nest egg that can be directed anywhere, rather than a bunch of unopened Amazon boxes.
Another person suggested getting things paid for by adoring fans – generally good advice, though this model may be too early on in their career for big wishlist action.
If your computer has a camera, you can start with that and add a camera to an Amazon wishlist. Make sure to make a new, anonymous amazon account, don’t use your real address, etc. Your viewers might be willing to buy that sort of equipment for you, and most won’t mind if you don’t have an HD cam at first.
I’d just make sure you know what you have fun doing, what your boundaries are, etc. I went in pretty uninformed, and it’s been fine. People on the sites can actually be really kind and helpful, you just have to be smart about who to listen to verses who is trying to be sort of manipulative.
Also, I really recommend checking in with yourself after each show. Knowing if you feel sad after a specific show, happy, uncomfortable, etc., will make you more content doing it in the long run. Don’t underestimate the difficulty in the work.
Such great advice there!
I also saw another very “new” question that touched on many issues:
How long should I be online before giving up? I did a stream on Chaturbate today for over an hour and did my first one yesterday. I hit 40 viewers at one point, but only took in a total of six tokens. I was running out of things to do to keep people intrigued, and I was getting pretty bored, so I ended the stream.
Should I have stayed online longer? Any ideas of things to do to keep people entertained without doing things I want people to tip for? I don’t show my face, which I know keeps people from being as interested, but it’s non-negotiable for me. I realize this is only my second stream so I can’t expect too much, but I’m at a bit of a loss as to how to attract people who are actually willing to pay to see anything.
A very early-on question for sure, and there was some killjoy advice: Think of your competition. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of [models] on there that are showing face and masturbating to orgasm just for tokens instead of only in private. You have to be really special to make guys pay for what they can get for free.
Another person suggested: Look at your competitors’ streams, and see what they do different. Make sure you have goals for high tips and low tips so people have something to aim for. Consider moving somewhere that which pays per minute instead of through tips.
A bit of advice that ends up leading to another question: Do you want to work more freemium, or more premium? It’s endless!
Starting out is challenging. There’s a lot to sift through, and lots of mixed advice. If you have the luxury, take some time to work your way through and process the information you are getting. And ask questions – the only thing someone got from not asking a question was no answer.
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Got something you want to share? Tips or rage-inducing incidents that other models may benefit from? Email erika@ynotcam.com — I’d love to hear from you!
