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There are a few model/photographer networking sites that are more on the semi-pro/amateur level (OneModelPlace.com or ModelMayhem.com are two). You could check into them, find some quality photographers in your area who are willing to work "time for images" or "time for prints" or some other variation on a trade or "test shoot". The photographer and model both get to build their portfolios without money changing hands. Look for photographers doing the types of work she'd like to do (fashion/glamour/art, whatever) and set up shoots with them. The objective is to build up her portfolio with a variety of strong images. After a few shoots, she should have enough to put together a print book of 10-15 professional looking shots. THEN turn up at the modeling agency as this "fully formed" model with a portfolio that shows what she can do, and it can really fasttrack the process. It will also get her used to working with photographers and being in front of the camera in low-pressure situations and she can learn a bit about posing and such too so it will be easier if she finds herself on the set of a paid shoot with the clock ticking and the meter running and the expectations high. These are usually low-budget, so if she can do her own makeup, that's a big plus. If a makeup artist is required, the photographer may ask you to cover or split that fee.
The semi-pro/amateur levels has its share of creeps, but so does the pro level, and overall the creeps are pretty few and far between and will red flag themselves if you're paying attention. Look at the quality of the work, and the "quality" of the models, and the variety of models in their portfolio. If you have doubts, ask for a get acquainted meeting with the photographer first or contact some of the models in his portfolio. But in general, quality work is usually a good indicator. It doesn't mean that a lousy photographer can't be a good, trustworthy person, but pictures from a lousy photographer won't do you much good.
And, honestly, no matter how good looking your daughter is, paying work is scarce outside NY, LA, Miami and maybe Chicago. But people are always looking for fresh faces, so it's always a possiblility. The attitude is to try to have fun, and if the money happens, all the better.
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