They is.

She's actually written a book on how to be a professional model:

https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/324685/viewall

http://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Beginner … 192&sr=8-1

Of the models I've worked with whom I met on Model Mayhem:

-most are aspiring or hobby models, who work mostly on trade basis or for side cash. Their priorities are mostly for fun, and they don't worry too much about the money.

-maybe 20% are what I think of as starting pros. Modeling full time is their goal (if not their current reality), and they plan shoots either to create immediate income (ie paid shoots) or to create future opportunities through portfolio advancement or strategic networking.

-probably 5% or less are currently full-time models, with 100% of their living coming from modeling AND their living from modeling actually covering their expenses. I know several models who make $200 a month from modeling and live off a boyfriend or parent, but I'm not including them in this figure. These models are often agency represented, but may also be solo, particularly the models who focus primarily on GWC nudes and glamor (I can think of several of these who make a good living modeling).

As far as talent and the ever-important "plays well with others" skill, I'd say it's spread pretty evenly. Some of the models I've worked with who make their full income on modeling it's a mystery anyone pays them, whereas others have never made a dime modeling but have the look and skill to be superstars if they had the ambition.

I think it would largely depend on what one considers a "professional" model.

I have more experience and shoot more often then most agency girls who've been modeling the same amount of time I have. I like to consider myself a professional, freelance model.

Some people would disagree because they feel a professional model has to have an agency or representation of some kind beyond her own abilities to qualify as a "pro" model.