How to Find Top Modeling Agencies

Model goes to IMG casting call.

Finding top modeling agencies can be tough. Finding an agency that will help you truly hone your talent abilities and genuinely work hard on your behalf can be even more daunting. Amiss the agencies that claim they can propel you to success (of course, with a small fee of 500+), research is vital in approaching talent/modeling agencies. Scams are out there and they want your money. Here is how you can avoid some of the common pitfalls of scamming agencies while finding that perfect agency right for you.

Instructions

1. Do an online search for the top modeling agencies in your area and go to each of their websites one by one. You can easily eliminate sketchy agencies that don't have a listing and headsheet of all of their models names, faces, stats, and resume. Agencies want to entice talent to be represented through them, and by doing so, they must put their best faces forward (no pun intended) and show you all of the impressive clients having their models work with.

   Also eliminate talent agencies that don't have a fully functioning website or one that looks disorganized and unprofessional. Again, this is telling you something about the legitimacy of the agency, if they can't pull it together on the web, chances are they can't pull in jobs for you either.

2. 

   Once you have narrowed down the agencies that seem professional and legitimate, take a look at their requirements. Most agencies will want you to submit Polaroids and possibly a talent resume online. You are encouraged NOT to send in professional photos because talent agents need to see your body and face void of make-up, fancy clothing, and photoshop manipulations. They want to see the real you, a clean canvas, so they know how to properly market your look.

3. Consider which agency will best represent your talent and your interest. Seriously consider your look/talent versus what the agency is looking for. For instance, if you are a petite model or plus model, going to a predominantly high fashion agency casting may get disappointing because they are looking for a high fashion look. Try instead, to seek out commercial agencies have successfully marketed your look. This will be beneficial to you in the long run because commercial agencies already know who you are and what your body looks like; with no apologies. If you are a plus size or petite model, go after the esteemed commercial agencies as they accept you with open arms and will be less likely to change you into something that you aren't.

4. Finally, take the next step to actively approach these top modeling agencies, and with confidence. Confidence is key in winning an audition, casting, and making an impression during an interview. It may take practice, but the more you get out there and go to an interview, the more confidencnt you will become. Casting directors and agents love confidence, a pleasant personality, and a professional attitude. Remember, it is more about your looks/talent, attitude plays a large role in being considered talent.