Understanding how modeling agencies work

First, we need to understand how modeling agencies operate and the importance of getting representation. A modeling agency will become the model’s agent (representing a model) and what that means is that the agent will act on behalf of the model as the middle person, between the model and the client. The client uses models for different types of advertising. The agent has the model’s best interest at heart working to get the most suitable jobs for the model, and ensuring that they get the best rates and working conditions for the model from the client. Modeling agencies employ efficient and effective ways to communicate with clients, provide a quality selection of models, and manage the financial aspect of the business.

There are also management agencies. A management agency works with several modeling/talent agencies and takes an additional 10% in commission of the model’s earnings for print work. Therefore, making a total commission of 30%, 20% of which goes to the modeling agency. Being with a management agency means signing an exclusive contract with them for some time, typically for 1 or 2 years. Agencies can be large or small - boutique type and not all agencies represent children. The size of the agency does not matter. What matters is the type of connections that the agency has in this industry. The agency represents a variety of models with the right look for various advertising requirements. In Part 1, I talk about this, where one model booking over another isn’t personal to the model but to the requirements of the type of advertising that the client is trying to achieve. A modeling agency consists of agents, managers, and bookers. The agents understand how the industry works -it’s forever changing in styles and trends. The bookers know who their models are on their books so that they can better fit the requirements of the client. The managers have the expertise to develop and promote their models -creating marketing tools to present to their clients to get jobs for their models which include setting up photo shoots to improve the model’s portfolio.

Finding Reputable Modeling Agencies

This is where those starting out get taken for a ride because they simply do not do enough research. Let’s understand the differences between a non-reputable and reputable agency. A non-reputable agency will ask for these: money up front, a registration fee, obligate the model to take photos with them or their photographer even though the model may already have great images taken by another photographer, obligate the model to take their classes and workshops before they can be represented and or submitting them for jobs, usually all at an astronomical fee and advertises their services or approaches the model or parent in person or via social media. A reputable modeling agency only makes money when the model makes money by taking a standard commission from the fee that the model makes on a job. The commission fees may vary. A standard commission fee for print work is 20%. A reputable agency does not have the need to advertise its services.

A good place to start off with in finding reputable modeling agencies in Miami, modeling agencies in Los Angeles or in your area is with SAG Franchised Agents and ATA/NATR Agents, AFTRA Franchised Agents. Some states require that a modeling and talent agency be licensed and their license number be displayed. The State of FL requires talent agencies to be licensed. Do your research online for the top five or ten modeling agencies in your city or nearby city including reading reviews on each agency. You can check reviews on agencies via Better Business Bureau and RipOff Report.

Depending on what state you live in, the child may require a work permit. The modeling agency will advise whether the child requires a work permit and if so, issue you with the necessary documentation or provide you with the link to complete the online application process. If in doubt, always ask! In some states such as in Florida (right-to-work), the agencies will allow the model to multi-list (have more than one agency) under a non-exclusive contract. An exclusive contract as the name implies, allows the model to only be represented by the one agency either within the state or county.

You may ask yourself what does an agent look for in a model besides the agent knowing it when they first lay eyes on the child. If you refer to my blog in Part 1 you will see that it is not all based only on looks which is very subjective, but on each child’s unique set of qualities, being personable, having the right attitude and size. If a child is in size then that means more opportunities. In size meaning standard clothing sample sizes that clients works with for photo shoots. The standard sizes are sizes: 6-12 months, 12-18 months, 3T, 5T, 6T, 10 and 12. Sample sizes are the first line of production before being released to the stores. Samples sizes come from the manufacturer to be used for photo shoots, therefore, it requires the right size model. A smaller child will have an advantage in the long run because they will remain in the sample sizes for a greater period of time. However, a taller child will have an advantage as an adult due to their height.

Sign up to be a Model

A modeling or talent agency has different divisions. Be specific as to the types of modeling divisions that you are interested in signing up or wanting representation from the agency.

Commercial

Fashion

Editorial

Runway/Catwalk

Fitness

Catalog

Fit (as in garments being fitted on the model)

Body Part

Expecting for Pregnant Models

Mature

Petite

Plus Size

Promotional

Stock Photography

Freelance

Submitting to Modeling Agencies

Nowadays the submission process is done online either through the agency’s website or via email. Very few agencies require you to mail in a cover letter and images like it used to be back in the day. Agencies do not like you calling the office or showing up at their offices unannounced. Check out the agency’s website for their submission process and follow the process. If the process is via their website, it usually requires you to fill out a simple form such as full name, age, DOB, address, contact information, height, statistics, hair, and eye color and upload between 2 to 5 images - headshot, half and full body images. If it is by email, the agency will state what they want in the email - keep it very brief. Images that are mailed out to the agency are typically printed in color in sizes 4x6, 5x7, or 8x10, and write or label the back of each image with the child’s full name, DOB, clothing and shoe size, height, hair and eye color. For high quality state of the art professional printing services, check out Photoscan.

Professional images are not necessary for children under the age of three years old and they are not a requirement. It is just that the market nowadays is very competitive with everyone getting professional images. If you decide to have professional photos taken of your child, use a photographer that knows how to shoot models versus going to a photographer at a store or that specializes in weddings or landscape. Always submit recent images. Submitting the right type of images will help get your child into an agency. In Part 3, I go into more detail about comp cards and portfolios.

Some agencies hold an open-call day which would be announced on their website. Should you attend an open-call, be prepared and have with you, your child and child’s printed photos. The agent will want to interview with you and your child as well as interact with your child and view his/her photos. This is the time for your child to shine. Have your child dressed as simple as possible with no hats or sunglasses or fussy hairstyles and no make-up. The child should be comfortable and be themselves. This is also an opportunity for you to find out as much as you can about the agency. Agencies are very busy so don’t be surprised if it takes weeks or even months to hear back. If you do not hear back from your online, mailing or open call submissions, do not call or bother the agency. Instead wait and re-submit in six months time.

How long does it take to hear back from modeling agencies?

There is no set time frame as each modeling agency operates differently and it just depends on what time of the year that you are submitting. During the busy season, it takes longer. Some agencies have a set window of time during the busy season to go through submissions. Having said that, if an agency likes what they see they will respond immediately. The best time to submit to any agency is during their low season and or when they have an open call. These days, agencies post on their social media platform when they are holding an open call, and more so now than ever before, since COVID-19, these are held via Zoom invites.

On-board with Modeling Agencies

Receiving an email or call from an agency wanting to represent your child is very exciting. This is the time to ask all the questions no matter how big or small or how relevant or irrelevant, and read over the fine print of any contracts presented to you. Know how long a contract serves, whether it is self-renewal, and whether it is exclusive or non-exclusive.

What you have read is just the tip of the iceberg. My 90+ page eBook The Ultimate Guide to Modeling and Acting is not just an ebook; it’s your indispensable companion on the path to success. Whether you are just starting or looking to take your career to new heights, this comprehensive guide provides you with invaluable information that empowers you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to navigate the competitive landscape and achieve your dreams in the world of modeling and acting.