Her long angular face made great noir shadows. Her dancers body gave the illusion of a very fit athletic woman, that didn't look like a stairmaster freak. This is one of those subjects that I think people have a misconception about. First of all, the idea that photo reference is somehow cheating is ridiculous. Its the same as life drawing from a live model, except how many of you have friends that have nothing better to do all day then stand it your studio in funny poses.
Models are an invaluable tool in creating a tone and style that is consistent with the narrative.
Nothing is cheating, comics are still in its larva stage. The only way for the medium to expand is for us to branch out and explore. Worst case scenario, we fall on our ass. Then we pick ourselves up and try something else. In my opinion, the only thing.