It’s been 20 years since JenniCam rocked the infant internet with the first adult-oriented live cam shows, revealing the intimate details of this groundbreaking cam performer’s daily life — including her sex life, setting the stage for the growth of today’s multibillion dollar camming industry.
A lot has changed since those days, with 20 years being longer than many of today’s cam stars have been alive: a new generation of models who have always known about home computers and webcams, the internet — and internet porn — something that a surprising number of cammers shy away from.
They are for models who enjoy high-energy camming that keeps you on your toes. I find it to be much more approachable than a private-only experience, it encourages members to develop friendships with each other and I find the large chat room experience to be engaging and fun. -Dawn Willow
“Surprising numbers” also come into play when describing the normalcy of camming, where in Romania for example (a world hot spot for cam companies and models), more than 40,000 women ages 20-40 are reportedly registered cam models — that’s approximately 1.25 percent of females in that age group.
The popularity of camming among both models and fans, its impact on online interactivity, technology, and more, are worthy of study, and as such, XBIZ wanted to get the inside scoop on the scene, straight from the models themselves — with the insights we’ve received proving most enlightening.
For example, while most cam shows are solo affairs, many couples and other groups have staked their claim in this vibrant market place — such as Violet Rose and Kayden Blake (@violetandkayden), who have cammed together for a year and a half.
“To begin, we are a real couple of 5½ years. We believe that fact alone sets us apart from a rather large portion of other broadcasters in the lesbian category,” Rose and Blake explain. “Not to say that there is anything wrong with not being a real couple when you broadcast together, by any means, but we feel our raw chemistry shows through in our work and makes for a different experience for our viewers.”
“Originally we started out on a token site, then moved to Streamate last Fall,” Rose and Blake added.
“Though we have not been broadcasting for very long, we have tried various things. Some went very well, others were not for us.”
XBIZ.net member Pussybythepound, Taja Thick (@pussybythepound), is a veteran cam model with eight years of experience, and a moderator of a large cam model forum. Thick has seen the evolution of the industry and its growing professionalism.
“Every day I have discussions with the brightest models in the industry about marketing tips and various other topics,” Thick says. “We aren’t just cam models. We’re also online entrepreneurs who are highly educated on building marketing campaigns and driving traffic.”
“The biggest problem right now is the disconnect between cam models and the big-box sites: Many of them don’t seem to be interested in listening to our ideas. This is why there’s a huge push towards going independent,” Thick adds. “More and more models are performing shows exclusively on Skype and are seeking their own payment processors. It’s a very exciting time for many of us.”
These focuses on diversity, creativity and business may come as a surprise to some who feel that models are a mere commodity to be used for separating clients from cash — but that overlooks their extreme value as corporate assets who have a head for business as well as for flirtation.
Model Insights: The Pros and Cons of Cam Business Models
According to Dawn Willow (@DawnWillow_), while private shows deliver a more personal experience, they can cause models to feel more pressure to perform well — and depending on the user who takes a performer private, the experience can vary greatly for models.
“Some members become more demanding, but most are only interested in catering to a specific act, fetish or role play,” Willow explains. “If this doesn’t leave you with any hesitation, then it really lets you be creative with your performance and deliver a memorable show for those who prefer a one-on-one camming experience.”
Willow says that in comparison, tip-based sites are extremely conversation oriented.
“They are for models who enjoy high-energy camming that keeps you on your toes. I find it to be much more approachable than a private-only experience,” Willow notes. “It encourages members to develop friendships with each other and I find the large chat room experience to be engaging and fun. I never fail to learn something new when I log online.”
Nikki Beez (@BirdyandBeez) says that the different aspects of camming available, such as tipping chat, private shows, phone services, SMS, etc., are all tools enabling models to make a living and earn money.
“The way that camming companies are structured, the more diverse the company the more opportunity there is to make money and control the model’s room,” Beez explains. “Cons occur in camming when a model is not using all of the resources provided to them and available to make money and succeed.”
Chezza Luna (@ChezzaLuna) says that after being a webcam model for five years, she has a definite list of pros and cons to camming today.
“[On the plus side there is] more common DMCA protection with watermarking provided by the site and many sites now give tips to the model directly about how to increase revenue. Model verification is very quick now, which makes more time to earn and less time doing paperwork,” Luna says. “Different sites get traffic from different regions of the world. When football is on some sites’ traffic tanks while others boom because they are mostly European customers who aren’t familiar with the NFL.”
“Cash express withdrawal is an amazing feature. I can earn money on cam, and later that day it’s in my Payoneer account. A godsend for bills or emergencies that can’t wait through a 15-day pay period,” Luna adds. “[Another plus is] reward systems to earn more: Video contests, earning-based prizes as incentives for the model, increased commission, referral percentages for signing up new hosts and new members.”
As for camming’s cons, Luna laments that her favorite site takes 65-70 percent of the models’ earnings, depending on how much she or he has made them, so the host cannot exceed a 35 percent commission on this particular site.
“My favorite site does not promote all categories the same. Most advertisement is given to transsexuals and girls alone, so couples are not promoted very much. Also, selling prerecorded content (such as amateur films) on cam sites is not very easy. Often the content must be hosted elsewhere and it is tricky to let customers know how to buy it,” Luna explains. “[There is also a] lack of watermarking provided on the video feed by some sites, while Flash-based cam sites often crash or cause issues if both parties’ [software is] not up to date. And also, non-discreet bank statements for the customer. All it takes is a Google search by a partner and you’re busted once they see that bank statement.”
Luna’s final complaint illustrates the complexities of camming, where a variety of policies, regulations, and rules can interfere with commerce and creativity.
“I have yet to find a cam site that allows menstruation, and when I ask why, I’ve never gotten a logical answer or reason for the discrimination of this fetish, which just so happens to be a normal bodily function of most cam girls of reproductive age,” Luna explains. “I’ve been told that it was not a billing compliance issue. I was totally sure that that was the reason, but apparently not. [One company] told me it’s ‘aesthetics,’ but that’s just them brushing my questions off as to why it’s ever ethical to ban or revoke earnings for something so normal.”
On the topic of private show-based sites, Thick says that the most talked about cam site among models is Streamate, noting “it’s no longer the site with the most traffic or the traffic that converts the best.”
“Things are evolving in the cam world and social media plays a major part in this. Also Streamate is one of the few sites that will not allow models to speak about their social media campaigns,” Thick explains. “I feel that this is a major drawback because this how we connect with our fans and sell our brands.”
Thick also sees underlying problems with models’ compensation and advancing technology.
“A lot of private-based sites take 65 percent of customer spending, and it’s becoming more and more difficult to justify this. Also, we’re usually faced with limitations such as mobile traffic not being able to convert due to the site’s coding,” Thick reveals. “Many sites are still relying on Adobe Flash to provide video, and that does not mix well with mobile traffic. Models know this and are very displeased with the level that these sites run on — 35 percent payouts with decreased traffic and constant issues are a very hard sell these days. Also model placement on these sites is extremely ambiguous and it’s most certainly not based on money earned or self promotion.”
Despite the drawbacks, Thick says that it is still relatively easy to make money in a short period of time with private-based sites, while token-based sites “are more like a marathon and you have to be patient because it can take a while for the traffic to build up.”
“I feel this is the direction that camming is going in and the creation of independent cam site directories. Token-based sites are paying out 50 percent and have an endless amount of traffic. Model placement is usually based on room counts — how many members can you keep in your room,” Thick explains. “These sites are more relaxed and give us more freedom to build our business they way we want to.”
Thick notes that the camming scene is truly evolving — and that may pose problems for cam networks.
“We’re learning how to do our own marketing and joining affiliate programs,” Thick says. “It’s like we don’t even need these sites like we once did and they haven’t caught on to this yet.”
As for the next big thing in camming, Thick points to smaller boutique-style cam sites that pay out higher percentages and allow models to sell shows through Skype.
“Some sites even have their own chat client built in. We’re not limited to the sort of shows we do and we can promote our social media to upsell members on things such as Snapchat and fetish clips,” Thick says. “None of the private-based or token-based sites have ever implemented [features such as] this.”
“So now we’re starting to build our own websites and use multiple services to sell our different products,” Thick adds. “Sites such as ManyVids and IWantClips are cam model companions that work with us to create our own private sites. ModelCentro is one site that allows us to create membership sites and perform live shows from the interface. But there are others such as Indiebill that are growing in popularity.”
According to Rose and Blake, the pros of what they are doing right now are plentiful.
“We, first of all, are grateful to be able to make a living do something we love. The platform on Streamate is the best we have experienced thus far. We are more comfortable doing shows in a more intimate environment with 1-50 members watching, rather than 4,000 unknowns,” Rose and Blake say. “The ‘no below the belt nudity in free chat’ rule that is on Streamate, and now being implemented on other sites is, in our opinion, a great thing. Though it may be hard for some to see, it is step in the right direction when looking at what can be done to prevent underage access to [adult] content.”
The couple says that while there are not so many cons, they are just as important, and far-reaching.
“It is a crucial time for not just us but every adult performer in the state of California. Because no matter how much we love what we do, there could come a time that we have to choose between the state we love or the career we love if Prop 60 passes,” Rose and Blake explain. “There are other obvious cons of putting yourself, naked, on the internet; such as hurtful criticism, harassment, and piracy. Streamate is, thankfully, very good at helping to get pirated content taken down so it makes it a little less of an issue.”
XBIZ.net member Luce_L (@MadamLedaXXX) says she got back in front of the camera to work as a fetish cam model known as Madam Leda, and says that for her, it’s a balance between working the sites with the biggest traffic and the most qualified potential clients.
“The ideal business model/site would obviously have a good quantity of qualified, interested clients,” Leda explains. “Also, ease of use would be vital. The sites with the highest percentage payout also tend to be the ones [that are] not the most attractive or easy to use for model or client.”
“My formula for [success] has been my sticking to my niche, which is femdom fetish, and not playing the switch or variety card. To quote a very successful rentboy, ‘Not a versatile bone in my body,’” Leda says. “I’ve played up what I’ve got. I’m Asian so I will happily do raceplay. I’m old, so MILF, etc. — I’ve steered clear of most vanilla themes.”
“What also helps with my business outlook is that I was not a cam model during camming’s halcyon days (pre-2009) where models were making good money with less competition. I take it for what it is now and don’t care about the 90? per-minute models from the developing world,” Leda concludes. “I’m also an entrepreneur/marketing professional in my other life, so I see it from the business side.”
Alex Lady (@AlexLady) believes that there are no pros and cons for either tip-based, private-based, or membership-based sites.
“What really matters is which site works for you and makes you the happiest, no matter if you’re a member or a model,” Lady says. “I personally prefer more masturbation-based sites than sites driven primarily by dramatics. It is a lot less stressful to smile and orgasm in my opinion, so that is the type of site I like to be on regardless of the means of payment.”
“Any cam model can do any type of show on any cam site, but some sites are more sex-based than others and it is easier to log on and cum on sites where the majority of members log on with their cock already in-hand,” Lady adds. “Don’t get me wrong; I love my fans and see some of them as friends. I’d totally sit down and have a beer with one of the nicer men in a live show and enjoy their company. We do all sorts of things together besides touch ourselves — those parts simply happen after the happy orgasms — that is my priority.”
Model and owner of the Sin City Vixens cam studio in Las Vegas, Nikki Lotus (@SinCityVixens), says that platforms that pay out weekly, don’t charge models for chargebacks, and use a tip format equal to $1, are much more helpful than having to do math when tipped in tokens and trying to figure out if that’s enough for a flash or whatever was requested.”
Another model/studio owner, XBIZ.net member Natalie Star (@NatalieStarLive) says that for models, the biggest benefit they get from working with a model recruitment studio such as Major League Cams is personal attention matched with network-level exposure.
“My models get personal attention, mentorship, and guidance along with the big traffic in their rooms that only a network can provide,” Star says. “The cons? There’s a big learning curve people have to go through if they ever want to go independent — the grass isn’t always greener on the other side!”
Fetish cammer Ami Mercury (@AmiMercury) told XBIZ that the pros and cons of various cam business models are often specific to the format and user base of the site itself.
“For example, on sites where shows are primarily done in free chat, on a tip-based system, it is easier for a model to raise her room count by logging in naked, versus a more private-based site where being naked in free chat is not only discouraged, but is sometimes against the rules,” Mercury says. “The con to this kind of business model, however, is that the general client base begins to expect everything to be done in free chat, which I feel encourages freeloading.”
“Over time, it seems as though regular customers of tip-based sites come to realize that if they just wait around long enough, eventually someone else will tip the model enough to hit her goal and she’ll do the whole show in free chat — and he won’t have to spend a dime to watch it,” Mercury explains. “Or if the customer doesn’t want to wait for this model to reach her goal, he can simply go to another cam room where another model is either about to reach, or has already reached, her goal.”
Mercury says that on private or gold-show (play sessions on MyFetishLive) based sites, a model’s room count is considerably lower, but there seem to be less “beggars” and freeloaders overall.
“Typically shows on private-based sites are a little slower paced, as well,” Mercury notes. “But this is because rather than trying to milk a couple of tokens apiece from a bunch of viewers, we’re focusing on getting long, intimate, sessions from one, or a small handful of viewers, at a time.”
Mercury reemphasized that this is often specific to the format and user base of the site itself.
“I don’t think fetish would work as well in a tip-based, free chat heavy site because the subjects of the models’ shows are much more niche and there is a smaller crowd to draw from,” Mercury explains. “Also, because it is niche, and sometimes a little controversial, that makes it a sort of ‘specialty’ and models can, and should, charge more for it. Vanilla shows, however, seem to work fine in a tip-based format, and many models prefer it.”
American Honey (www.chaturbate.com/american_honey) says that one pro of cam business models is when the traffic of the site helps with driving new fans and followers as well as new tips.
“Models are given the option to offer privates and set their own rates. Models are also given the opportunity to be as creative as they would like with their introductory biographies in their profiles and how they run their shows [and] notify fans of when they are logging on creating regulars in their rooms,” Honey told XBIZ. “The cons are that there are no perfect ways to search for a model of your type, or find the one you are looking for unless you have already been introduced to that model.”
Honey says that private shows, although not done by many models, should be able to be scheduled for a later “off cam” time; and laments restrictions against certain toys by some sites, as well as slow updates.
“I think if models had more say in what the limits are on toys they would feel the freedom to be more creative,” Honey explains, and underscores the importance of sites offering a video section for models to offer content of their own making. “I’m sure a lot of other models would like to see an easier, more artistic way of showcasing content without having to link another site.”
Model Insights: A Personal Advantage
Willow says that standing out as a performer against the overwhelming sea of other beautiful women can be extremely difficult.
“There will always be someone prettier and younger than you, but having self-confidence and giving members an unforgettable show will take you to the top,” Willow explains. “I focus on giving the most authentic experience to my viewers that I can and catering to a wide variety of fetishes with a laid back atmosphere where you are free to talk about anything.”
Beez notes that being different and standing out is all about observation.
“One of the biggest points I could suggest would be to smile and have fun. Do not be afraid to let yourself go and have fun and be silly,” Beez says. “Being a cam model means you have to stay fresh and exciting [so] try playing with wardrobe and backgrounds. A room and the decor can be a deal breaker sometimes — messiness never cuts it in a romantic setting.”
“I also have the personal advantage of being heavily tattooed,” Beez adds.
For her part, Luna takes an opposite approach. “I like to keep myself very natural, with no tattoos, no fake hair, and often ‘no makeup’ looks. Members often comment about these almost effortless techniques in a very positive way and it helps me love who I really am and what I really look like even more,” Luna explains. “My tight body and sense of humor, straight smile, fluent English, and being very energetic, help me shine like the webcam star I am.”
Rose and Blake say they don’t worry too much about other models and what those models are doing.
“We both believe that the camming community should be just that, a community, not a competition. Instead, we compete with each other,” Rose and Blake explain. “We are nearly polar opposites in both appearance and personality. Violet with long black hair, six tattoos, and typically darker makeup has a bold, dominating personality. While Kayden is more the submissive, yet outgoing personality with short blonde hair, one tattoo and little or no makeup.”
“This contrast typically causes members to lean one way or the other when finding themselves attracted to us, so we started a little contest between the two of us that members can participate and vote in,” the couple adds. “The competition ends with a celebratory Gold Show at the end of the month, and we plan on doing some sort of competition every few months to increase the level of interaction between ourselves and our members.”
Lady says that to be honest, she doesn’t really have any favorite techniques.
“Whatever I wear, however I fuck, it’s just what I’m in the mood for. It can be anything from sexy, kinky, to dorky. I am myself, quirks and all. My belief is that if I’m having fun that I am more fun to watch,” Lady reveals. “Very few men seem to care about a cam girl’s pleasure — most want to see what it is they want to see, not what we are in the mood for.”
Lady notes that if there’s one way she stands out, it is that she puts her own pleasure first, regardless of how much someone is willing to pay.
“It may mean I’m not the cam girl for most people, but it does ensure that I enjoy my time on camera, and thus put more hours online than I imagine those who work hard to make their customers happy at their own expense,” Lady adds. “Every cammer is different, and I must say this is a good thing. I respect any cam model no matter how she chooses to do it. It is a wonderful world to explore!”
This “wonderful world” encompasses many approaches and brands.
“What I like to do to establish my brand is to make sure I have high quality content to upsell them while I wait for privates. Also I use top notch equipment to make sure I’m streaming in HD quality,” Thick says. “When I’m working on a site that has free chat, I use lots of eye contact. I look directly into the camera and make them feel as though they are the only one in the room. So many models neglect to do this.”
“Don’t give it all away for free,” Lotus says. “No $1 Gold shows.”
Lotus also says it’s important to make things interesting and fun.
“I love doing trivia games! Stay in free chat and have them tip on Gold for a guess and give them a deal on how much Gold for how many guesses. Offer the winner of the game a 10 minute, 99¢ exclusive,” Lotus advises. “A lot times you’ll have two members that tip a lot so you give it to them both.”
“Remembering to change your exclusive price back after their show is the tricky part,” Lotus adds.
“I’ve always felt that the main thing that sets me apart from other models (and my studio apart from other recruitment studios) is my work ethic,” Star explains. “In modeling, that comes out by maintaining a consistent schedule — four hours every morning, four hours every night, six days a week.”
“It may sound regimented, but in many ways it’s easier than changing up my schedule at the drop of a hat,” Star adds. “I know when I’m on and, most importantly, so do my customers. Consistency is the key ingredient to success.”
Mercury says that as a fetish model, what makes her stand out is a willingness to cater to some bizarre, and rather esoteric, fetishes.
“I perform a variety of fetish and vanilla content, but the two things I am best known for are ABDL (Adult Baby/Diaper Lover) and clown fetish. Mind you these are both very niche,” Mercury says. “The audience for them is considerably smaller than, say, people who are into anal, but they are also things that very few models are into. So the fetishists themselves are often just excited to find people that are interested in the same things as them.”
Mercury also tends to market herself as sort of an off-beat, eclectic model.
“Sometimes I log in dressed in frilly pink outfits with a pacifier; sometimes I’m wearing crazy costumes; sometimes I portray myself as a hot, dominant ‘mommy’ type; and sometimes I log in wearing greasepaint, a big red clown nose and bra that squeaks when I squeeze my boobs,” Mercury reveals. “One time I built a blanket fort in my room, and used a Hitachi on myself underneath it during a play session. Another time I covered myself in glow-in-the-dark paint under a black light. On New Year’s Eve once I donned a pink sash, and top hat as Baby New Year. You just never know what you’re going to find when you log into my room, and I like to think that’s what keeps people coming back.”
Honey says that standing out on a site is much easier when it offers more variety than just women.
“Having a certain look which is unique to you is one good way to have a certain fan base that will only view you,” Honey explains. “Cosplay is a great way for your fans to see something interesting, new, and eye catching which is also fun for the me.”
Honey notes that personality can go a long way in making models more relatable and fun for the viewer.
“Most of my viewers love to mention that my personality and humor is just what they wanted,” Honey says. “Role play, fetish play, and BDSM are also a great tease for viewers that will leave them coming back for more. I occasionally like to include one or more of them in my shows to bring new people and reward my long time fans.”
Model Insights: Concerns Over Members, Networks, and Studios
“Cam studios need to take a closer look at a model’s individual needs and career goals,” Beez offers. “For example, offering models the ability to promote individual modeling sites, and more promotion on social media.”
Ashley Wels (@ashleywels1) told XBIZ that she would love to see more sites offer features that improve interactivity between members and models.
“Everyone is so focused on new sex toys and VR, but no one is thinking of simple things such as games that models and members can play together, more interesting contests, and parties,” Wels says. “A big part of camming is about chatting and making relationships deeper with members. Sites could really give us tools to make this easier and more fun.”
Lady laments that while some cam sites have rules for members, such as them not being allowed to harass the models, they never seem to enforce those rules.
“This leads to waves of users abusing models. You’ll have five, 10, or even 100 members trying their best to make one model cry after another. That isn’t fun for anyone,” Lady says. “Rules should be enforced site-wide and equally for all members and models.”
Lady says that Streamate is her favorite cam site, and one of the reasons for this is that it will remove members who break the rules, explaining that “Members can’t force us to see their chat without having a credit card, so the site is able to ban them by legal name.”
Lady says that one of the things she wishes Streamate would do is make wire transfers free for models.
“Anyone can work for Streamate, even without camming,” Lady explains. “You can make white label websites, blogs, or even general pop-up advertisements to try to get people to sign up for the site [and] if you refer someone to the site, you will get 35 percent of everything they spend.”
“That is great because it encourages a lot of unique advertisement for the site and gets us a lot of new users,” Lady adds. “The trouble is that models also only get paid 35 percent, yet when we want a wire transfer we have to pay $40 for it.”
Thick says that if cam networks want models to stick around and keep the traffic onsite, then they need to provide onsite hosting for a model’s videos.
“Also we need to know that those videos will not get resold elsewhere, [and] stop giving our content to affiliates,” Thick says, and points to the need for live model support. “Customers get this, why not the models, too? Actually we’re customers as well, but they don’t seem to look at it this way.”
Thick also has some business advice that could benefit both cammers and the networks they rely upon.
“Instead of relying on affiliates who’ve never cammed to drive traffic, why not include the models? Streamate could give ‘how to’ seminars on the best ways to use the Cambuilder.com program. I can’t think of a single time they’ve pitched this to us. This way we can target the traffic that we want,” Thick explains. “LiveJasmin also has a white label program that’s really good, but again, they don’t reach out to models to become affiliates.”
Willow’s vision for the future of camming is one that “goes hand-in-hand with the rest of the adult entertainment world.”
“Camming will not stop growing anytime soon and will continue to be the frontrunner and leader of adult entertainment,” Willow explains. “With that being said, cam networks as a whole do a great job keeping the ship running. Platforms that provide high traffic, have contests with fun prizes, and give us the best possible quality for streaming are the what the community wants.”
“I would also love to see more cam girls branch out to different aspects of the industry and vice versa, with the help of studios,” Willow adds. “Crossovers for porn stars going into camming give them the opportunity to do what they want with their ideas while still staying within control of the production.”
Like many other performers, Lotus believes that cam platforms need to offer better model support.
“The members can live chat, or get someone on the phone immediately, however it takes a model five days to receive a response — and usually it’s a blanket generic response,” Lotus says. “I know a lot of models would like certain platforms to allow for social media promotion, or at least not get suspended if a member asks what their Twitter name is. I personally do not agree as a model and as a studio owner.”
Lotus says models need to be careful with outside promotions, because many members that try to take models off the site are looking for ways to get something for free; and that it would be nice if members had to request to take models private.
“You could have a room filled with people tipping and getting ready to take you exclusive and then a member takes you private [but only] stays in for 30 seconds. It clears your room and then you’re back to no one in your room,” Lotus says. “As far as studios go, I wish there were more like mine as far as providing things for models such as bedding, lingerie, and toys, etc., and not charging them to work.”
“Honestly, the network I work and place models on has a very solid business model,” Star reveals. “Sure, some networks may put that model into practice differently, but the platforms are set up to give models every opportunity for success. The technology is handled, the traffic is handled, the mods are handled.”
Star says that success comes down to having a solid work ethic, and that models looking for an easy way to cam “are not cut out to succeed.”
“The biggest misconception about working a webcam job is that it is easy,” Star explains. “If more models would focus on what they make per pay period (versus what they make in a day), they would find themselves not getting as discouraged when they have a slow day here and there.”
Considering those factors, Star says she’d like to see “the big picture” emphasized more in cam culture in general.
“We all need to focus on the long game,” Star notes, “because in the end, you have to remember that the big money days cannot happen without the slow money days spent getting to know the customers.”
Mercury told XBIZ that she would like to see more cam networks and studios provide more than just monetary benefits for their models.
“It’s great that top models are able to earn bonus cash for being the highest earners on the site, but especially in the case of big box sites, if these models are making enough to be in the top 10 percent an extra $500 at the end of the month is basically a drop in the bucket,” Mercury says. “I’d like to see cam networks, and perhaps even studios, offer stipends for healthcare, or 401K programs for models who make above a certain amount every month.”
Honey told XBIZ that if networks had more ways of showcasing and introducing models it would direct site traffic to more rooms more efficiently.
“Room counts can have a lot to do with model success [and] better tech support for some models would alleviate the stress of complications they can’t fix on their own,” Honey says. “Offering veteran cammers more incentives would also be a great thing for the ones that have put years of hard work and fun into their site.”
Model Insights: Cammers’ Secrets to Success
Samantha 38g (@Sam38g) advises models to let go of preconceived notions of what they or their spouse typically think that men will find sexy.
“There will be a learning curve of a few months to maybe even a year to find your groove and a niche that sells best for you,” Samantha says. “Every day is a new day, so don’t be afraid to keep mixing it up until you find the correct look that makes you the most sales.”
“Keep in mind all the advice that men give you on a cam site or social media sites is not the best advice,” Samantha adds. “This advice will be geared to their benefit and taking advantage of you being new. Most will get angry and combative when you don’t jump through their hoops for free, so simply block them and never have a second thought about it.”
Samantha points out that camming is a sales job, and highly suggests that models read books on sales.
“Business is business, and learning good sales techniques and how to close the deal is important,” says Samantha. “The basics of business, sales, online marketing, SEO, and branding are the same no matter what industry you are in. [As with] every job there is a learning curve, constantly trying to improve and lots of hard work involved. Don’t be so hard on yourself during that period. No one ever gets rich quick or without time and effort.”
Samantha told XBIZ that finding the cam site that works best for a specific model can be difficult.
“Each one has its own culture, and it takes time to figure out if it is the best place for you. Sites also change and evolve. Sometimes that is a good thing and sometimes it isn’t. If a site is on its way down, don’t stick with it till the bitter end,” Samantha advises, adding, “Have fun. If you are bored, then the customer will find you boring and click right out of your room into someone else’s. [Remember,] you are the entertainment.”
While Samantha explains that cam models should never be afraid to be creative, she notes that how a room looks and is lit is important to sales.
“[Your room] must be clean, well lit and welcoming,” Samantha says. “A dirty room with lots of clutter and mess does not convert into sales. If you look messy and unclean, you will not make any money.”
“The best investment you can ever make is in good lighting,” Samantha adds. “There are lighting kits on Amazon for under $100, and plenty of tutorials on YouTube on how to set them up. Daylight bulbs for filming are great.”
Finally, Samantha underscores the importance of marketing for models, saying, “do not depend upon any site to provide all the traffic.”
On the point of what it takes to succeed as a cam model today, Willow pithily notes “It isn’t easy.”
“We make it look mostly effortless while broadcasting and you do not see the years it takes to build up a fan base or the effort on our part it takes to keep it that way,” Willow says. “Utilizing social media is the most powerful thing that can make your break your camming career.”
“All cam girls have their special events and ideas that add flavor to their cam room, whatever the niche may be we all have one or more. As well as the complex interpersonal relationships which are formed and grow within each cam room, between models and even among members themselves,” Willow adds. “Sexuality is only a small dose of what we provide, and understanding that key factor will allow you to think outside the box.”
Beez agrees that camming is a difficult business but says that it can be extremely rewarding as well.
“There is a fine line between what is legal and illegal,” Beez explains. “Familiarizing yourself with the rules and regulations of your respective camming site and geographic region is paramount to success and longevity.”
“Being truly successful,” Beez adds, “means being self-motivated, informed, confident, and in control.”
Alex from AWSummit has hopes that a second Golden Age might come for cam models, when they can earn huge amounts of money, making success easier.
“Nowadays, on one hand the number of studios and models is increasing far faster than the number of paying clients. This results in many models earning less than they could years ago,” Alex explains. “At the same time the economic environment in Easter Europe is slowly improving, and combining these trends, camming might not be as appealing as it used to be.”
“But here comes the good news,” Alex adds. “Those who stick to camming in the next few years might find themselves with reduced competition and once again higher incomes can be achieved.”
Lady says that camming takes a lot more time than new models might think, and that for every couple of hours a model spends on camera, she will spend one off camera working on camming-related activities. She also advises prospective models not to try camming “just to test it out and see what you think.”
“When you start to cam, you will want to go all in and do your best from the start, as this is one of the primary factors of a successful cam model,” Lady explains. “Be sure, be ready, and give it your all. It can be fun, stressful, and sometimes a struggle, but [it will make you happy].”
“Consider what type of camming you want to do and read up on what sites you would like. A lot of sex-workers are really supportive of one another and there are forums where we help each other out and answer questions. I will even help you if you need to ask something,” Lady adds, with a warning for those interested in camming. “Know that once there is porn of you on the internet there will always be porn of you on the internet. Your porn will never go away — although with time it will be diluted with all the rest of the porn coming out.”
“Lastly never forget that you can say ‘no,’” Lady concludes. “Your consent matters, even when money is involved.”
“Self promotion. Use your brand and get creative. Connect with other models and cross promote. The future is creating a site that’s a one stop shop for your fans,” Thick says. “This can include Skype shows, clips, phone sex, Snapchat subscriptions, tangible items, and more.”
Lotus says it’s important for models to know the terms of service (TOS) for the platforms they work on, to read and retain everything, and to know their equipment and lighting.
“Get to know your regulars [and] keep notes on them. They love when you remember little details,” Lotus advises. “Knowing a member’s dog’s name or their favorite sports team is something that will always keep them coming back.”
In her role as studio owner, Lotus says she provides a notebook for models to write notes on members, and says that while Streamate gives models a note option, if the member is on a different platform the model can’t access their notes.
“I wrote a lengthy manual for my models that has all the things in it that I wish I knew when I started,” Lotus adds. “It covers everything as well as my studio policy.”
“It may sound cliché, but I live by this mantra: ‘A slow dime will always be worth more than a fast nickel’ — and I think everyone could benefit from it,” Star confides. “Models who try to take customers off site for (what they hope is) a big fat payout, giving it all away for free in open chat, and, when mentoring, focusing on only the top earners and neglecting your other models — that’s focusing on the fast nickel.”
“I myself do not do business like that,” Star concludes. “Therefore it is the slow dime that will always mean more to me.”
Mercury says that for a cam model to succeed today her mantra should be “There’s no such thing as too much social media.”
“A cam model needs to promote herself on as many platforms, as possible. It’s sometimes difficult to keep up with them all, of course, but once you make daily postings on sites such as Twitter, Instagram or Tumblr a habit, it becomes a part of your routine,” Mercury explains. “Cam sites do provide traffic, but they are not solely responsible for getting people in your room.”
Mercury also thinks that cam models need to have multiple revenue streams, not just rely on camming.
“I recommend that they have a clips store (Clips4Sale, Manyvids, IWantClips, etc.), do phone sex through Niteflirt or similar platforms, offer custom videos, or create a membership site,” Mercury says. “I say this for two reasons: Number one, being the obvious, the more revenue streams you have the more money you’ll make over all.”
“Sometimes the fish just aren’t biting, but if you have a clips store it’ll make up for the slower nights on cam, and vice versa,” Mercury confides. “I’ve found that these things tend to come in waves. I’ll either have a great couple of days on cam, or a great couple of days selling clips, or have a bunch of custom video orders but rarely will I have all of these things at the same time.”
Other models have similar experiences, making this sound advice.
“The other reason why I recommend multiple revenue streams is because it is another means of promoting yourself. Once I started a clips store I noticed my traffic, and overall earnings, increased on cam,” Mercury adds. “People would find my videos, find my Twitter, and then catch my shows on MyFetishLive.”
Lastly, Mercury recommends that all models be adaptable to change.
“The adult industry, like almost any other industry, is constantly evolving. The cam scene today is very different from what it was even as little as five years ago,” Mercury concludes. “You have to keep one eye on where trends in the industry, and one eye on where you’re headed. It’s important to keep your feet planted in the present, but don’t kick off your shoes because you might have to get up and start running again.”
Honey says that success for models comes in many different forms.
“Money, followers, viewers, business opportunities, and time spent on cam are all factors of success. Combining all of them is key,” Honey told XBIZ. “Camming is more work than most are aware of. It takes time, dedication and creativity.”
“Keeping your fans informed and intrigued to come back and see you is very important. It takes so much more than logging on,” Honey adds. “It takes personality, uniqueness, talent, dedication, and the ability to sell yourself to an audience but still staying true to who you are. The biggest success you can have as a model is obtaining money, viewers, business opportunities, while staying true to yourself and to what your interests are.”
All together, this experienced collection of live cam models forms an underutilized resource for cam site operators and promoters — as well as for less experienced and prospective models. The lesson is clear: listen to the ladies and your profits will increase and your customers will be happier.
