How to Become a Licensed Model Agent
If you are interested in getting a model agent license, the first thing to do is to gain significant experience working in your field. Having a background helping photographers shoot their ads can help you gain connections and get your license, for instance. Becoming a model agent has to do with more than just a license, though. You need to understand how to recruit talent and keep them in your roster too.
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Instructions
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Get a License
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Download a license application from your state's Department of Business and Professional Regulation. The requirements for finishing the application are typically listed on the website and may vary state to state. Make sure you fulfill the requirements for your state.
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Make a list of the experience that you have working in the entertainment industry. In Florida, for instance, you need at least one year of experience in the industry to become a talent agent. Make note of whether you were an actor, casting assistant, producer, director, casting director or advertising executive.
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Have your fingerprints taken. A background check is part of the application process.
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Provide a surety bond, which guarantees that you fulfill contractual obligations. In Florida, for instance, the surety bond must be for $5,000 and from a reputable bonding company.
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Pay an application fee and fill out your application. The application fee varies by state; as of 2010, it is $705 in Florida, for example. You are now free to scout talent if your application goes through and you receive a license.
Working as an Agent
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Work hard at finding qualified models; decide what type of models you want to represent. Deciding the types of models you want to represent means that you should examine the types of connections you have. If you have connections to high fashion photographers, perhaps you should focus on high fashion models.
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Scout for models at fashion shows and beauty pageants, although you shouldn't forget to look for models in other places too. Checking out the body and face structure of potential models at the gym, mall and beach can help you discover models also.
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Keep organized records of your models, and make sure each one receives audition notifications. Forgetting about a model might mean that she looks elsewhere to get a new agent, which is bad for your career. Enter your models' contact information into a talent agency software program that lists their addresses and phone numbers.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't charge models fees for representation. One complaint to the Better Business Bureau can significantly damage your career.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit teen fashion model image by Lisa McKown from Fotolia.com
