Model Search

A modeling agency helps train perspective models. They find work for models and sign a model into modeling contracts. Model agencies want and need to be profitable. They will do all they can to help, if they feel you have what it takes. Although you do not need a modeling agency to get started, it does help if you can find a legitimate, reliable agency to represent you. When looking for an agency, you need to know they are legitimate. Word of mouth, asking other models, and checking with the Better Business Bureau is just some of the ways to find all you can about them.

There are many ways to locate model agencies. Looking in the yellow pages is a good place to start. Make a list of the agencies that you find locally. If you live in a small town, you may have to obtain the yellow pages of the largest city that is closest to you. Once you have your list made out, check the Better Business Bureau, talk with other models in your area, and see if you can find information about them on line. Next, call to see if you can make an appointment to talk with them. Do not sign anything on your first visit, unless you already know that they are legitimate and reputable.

 

 

If a company asks you to sign with them, you will want to read the contract very carefully before signing. Let the agency know that you are interested, and inform them that you need to read the contract first. Set up a time that you can get back with them. If you see anything in the contract that is questionable, ask the agency about it. If it does not look or feel right, and they don’t want to change the contract, don’t sign it.

 

 

A reputable agency should never ask for money up front. They should be willing to help you get your portfolio in shape, teach you what you need to know when starting out, help get your test shots ready, and put together a composition card with all your required information. A modeling agency will put you in contact with the right people, and in the right industry. There are many types of models and different types of modeling jobs. The modeling agency will know where you fit and which industries will work best for you. It is important that you be on time and ready for training, photography shoots, and whatever else the agency needs from you. There is a lot of competition and they do not have time to wait on you. The agency that you select will do all the necessary work in finding you assignments, booking you for assignments, taking care of any billing, plus any other necessary paperwork. By having an agency to work with, allows you to concentrate on modeling. Modeling is stressful enough without having to worry about all the details of making a portfolio, training, finding the right contacts, and being paid.

 

 

All agencies work on consignment. They will bill the company that you are modeling for, take their prearranged cut, and pay you for your services. Agencies usually take a cut of 10 - 33 percent of your earnings. This will depend on the type of modeling, your experience, and their reputation as a modeling agency.

When you first start out as a model, you may have to find your first modeling job yourself. Only do that as a last resort, as it is much easier if you find an agency to represent you, and prepare you for your modeling career.