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How to Find a Modeling Agent
by Cathy McKim
A model needs an agent. Models work in print - from high fashion
editorial and magazines to catalogues and flyers - or in shows, and
it isn't easy for someone without an agent to promote themselves to
the fashion photography studios, advertising agencies, show coordinators,
fashion editors, and clothing stores that hire models.
The other area of work for models - commercials - is equally hard
to get to without an agent to rep you to commercial casting
directors.
There are two ways to connect with a modeling agency: you can
market yourself, or you can go to someone else who has the
connections and expertise to market you (model scout, imaging
service, or model placement or development service).
Going Solo
If you go solo, do some research first: decide what agencies you
want to approach, and what you need in order to approach them. Do
they hold regular open calls? Do you need a test portfolio in
order to attend? Can you make an appointment with one of the
agents for an assessment of your potential?
Modeling agencies tend to have an open door policy; an aspiring
model can get at least one quick once-over, usually at an open
call: a time set aside by an agency for unsigned models to show
their portfolios, and meet briefly with an agent. Agencies which
hold open calls usually do so at least once a month; they try to
see as many people as possible during these calls, so don't expect
a lot of personal attention. Be prepared and be professional.
While some agencies will see you without a portfolio, it's better
if you have one.
If an agent sees solid potential in you, you will
be invited back for a closer look. If an agent sees some
undeveloped potential, you may be advised to make some changes and
test again, possibly with a different photographer. The agency
will then base their decision on your second testing. Or you may
be advised that you are not marketable. There's nothing wrong with
looking for a second opinion - or even a third - but if you've been
to three open calls with three top agencies and all three have said
that your "look" is not in demand, then either forget about being
a model or consult a professional imaging service to change your
look. Take seriously the opinions or advice given to you by
reputable agents. They know the business and the market; their
livelihood depends on it.
Agents need to know if you are marketable. It is rare for an
agency to sign a model who has no portfolio before at least one
test session has been shot. If you have no portfolio, an agent who
feels you have potential is likely to advise a test shoot, and may
suggest photographers, make-up artists, and stylists. If you have
a portfolio, the agent may suggest further testing if your
portfolio does not market you properly.
Model Development Services
If you don't feel ready to promote yourself directly, you can go
through a model scout, an imaging and placement service, or a
modeling school. These professionals will give you advice and
guidance, select the best image or "look" for you, assemble the
photographer, artist and stylist most likely to bring out your
best. If you test well, they will market you to the agencies most
likely to be interested in what you have to offer.
Modeling schools will, in addition to all the above, provide
formal instruction in grooming, deportment, runway and on-camera
techniques, and other professional training.
Deal only with legitimate modeling agencies, schools, placement
services and scouts. Ask agents for professional references from
clients (fashion studios, fashion photographers, ad agencies); ask
school directors and model scouts what agencies they have placed
models with. Watch out for circular references; if an agency
vouches for a scout or school, and the scout or school promotes
only to that agency, you might want to find someone else who can
evaluate the reputations of both.
Once an agent offers to represent you, you must decide if you want
that agent. Find out how the agency does business, and what they
have in mind for you. Ask about contracts, commissions, testing
sessions, promotional costs, clients, international contacts, and
how the agent plans to market you. If you have been listening,
learning, and doing research all along, you will be able to
evaluate the agency to see if it is right for you. Ask yourself if
you trust this person with your professional image and your career.
Hiring an agent is one of the most important business decisions you
will ever make, so take your time. Never sign anything under
pressure; once you sign it, it is binding. Don't rush in; if
you're marketable today, you'll be marketable next week.
If you have the right body type, height, look, and style; if you
have what the market wants; if you test well; if you move well; if
the clothes look good on you; if you accept the responsibility of
maintaining your physical condition (exercise, nutrition, skin
care, hair care, and a healthy lifestyle); if you follow advice
from the professionals; then chances are you will find an agent.
From "An Actor's Guide to Agencies in Toronto,"
published by Moonlighters Publishing Inc. Copyright © Moonlighters Publishing Inc. Used with permission of the author.
All rights reserved. Not to be reproduced or distributed by any means without this copyright notice.
email: moonpeg@inforamp.net
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