How to Find a Modeling Agent

The first step to becoming a model is finding an agency. Choose carefully in order to start off on the right foot.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fashionable Clothes
• Fashionable Shoes
• Modeling Agency Guide
• Makeup Kits
• Fashion Magazines
• Career Counseling

Shop Around

1. Look up modeling agencies in your area and then visit each one personally. Make an appointment or go to an open call.

2. Inquire about models who have gone on to successful careers and how the agency finds new talent.

3. Ask to see some work samples or tear sheets of the photographers used by the agency.

4. Find out how portfolios are put together.

5. Check with the Better Business Bureau to make sure the agency is reputable.

6. Visit at least five agencies before signing with one.

Sign With an Agent

7. Choose a respectable agent and look over the contract before you consider signing it.

8. Keep in mind that the agency shouldn't get more than 20 to 25 percent of your payment.

9. Make sure the contract states that the agency will work in your best interests. This includes recommending photographers, setting up photo shoots, helping you find work and answering any questions you have.

10. Avoid signing an exclusive contract. It is OK to work with only one agency, but you may be limiting yourself.

11. Try to steer clear of contracts of more than two years. One or two years gives you a chance to get established. After that time period, determine whether you want to re-sign or become freelance.

12. Sign the contract if, after careful review, you find the terms acceptable. Begin to put together a portfolio and go on casting calls to get work.

Tips & Warnings

• If possible, have an attorney review your contract.
• Avoid agencies that put together "one-stop" portfolios. Portfolios are put together over time.
• Avoid agencies that want registration fees or try to sell modeling classes. Reputable agencies will train you for free.
• Be very wary of agencies that guarantee work or say they will have you working immediately.

Who Can Help:

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[askkiran]

on 6/24/2009 Thanks
askkiran.com

[ceholmes]

on 6/24/2009 Petite modeling, commercial modeling, and parts modeling are great fields to get into as well. You can have a successful career in modeling without being a fashion model. They can be very lucrative if you can get into the right agency.

[glorybug]

on 6/21/2009 I worked as a model in my teens and twenties, and afterwards went on to become an agent and later an agency owner in Santa Barbara. Check your state's laws re: model and talent agencies fees. Here in CA, the agency percent was certainly not 20-25%. Also, while legit agencies will not charge you for portfolios, they don't provide them for you- you have to create it yourself. Usually by modeling free for photogs in exchange for pix. Once you get legit work you'll have tearsheets for your port. There is also no mention here of headsheets, which are pretty important. Most small towns don't even have agents or agencies. This article doesn't really tell how to find an agent.

[minaofgodsgirls]

on 5/31/2009 Models with body mods, like me, should seek print modeling. Runway does not like a lot of tattoos. While one day I hope to see more tattooed models on the runways, I'm sure that clothing designers may feel like attention is being drawn away from their designs. Also, the bit about runway girls being at least 5'7" is true, I'm a shortie-pants so I couldn't do runway anyway lol.

[vixensky]

on 5/26/2009 Vixensky Productions Model/Talent AgencyPlease visit our website and get your face known! vixenskyproductions.com. We can help. We are a BRAND new online modeling/talent agency looking for fresh faces. We can help you book casting calls and jobs locally, wherever you are. We are very friendly and are open to all kinds of models and talent. If you are interested, please feel free to email us. Lets get your dream going! Jenna ThomasModel Scout/Marketing/[e-mail]