Model agents typically start their careers after finishing college, or just working closely with production staff at fashion events.
They’re not just knowledgeable about fashion, modeling, photography, and casting agencies; they’re experts at connecting all these aspects within the industry.
You can often spot these agents at glamorous fashion shows and busy casting calls, always on the lookout for new faces to bring into the modeling world.
However, their job involves a lot of responsibilities, from organizing photo shoots to managing busy schedules and ensuring every appointment runs smoothly, all to benefit the models they represent.
Some agents work independently, handling a small exclusive roaster of models seeking success!
Other agents find their place within renowned modeling agencies like DNA Management, Wilhelmina Models, Ford Models, and others, while also mentoring their models to shine.
But wait, experience is VITAL!
Many future model agents start as interns, driven by their passion for fashion. Agencies often offer internships to those skilled in social media management and up-to-date on fashion trends.
Interns assist during open casting calls, help models with their online social media presence, and tackle various tasks to keep the agency running smoothly.
It’s an exciting way to enter the world of fashion and modeling!
Favorite Part About Being A Model Agent
Many will say it’s Development, hands down! As an agent, you become a mentor and friend to these male and female models, almost like becoming their second family.
See, most people in their circle – friends and family – don’t quite grasp the ins and outs of the demand of the fashion industry and how unpredictable it can be at times!
So, it’s pretty awesome to be their go-to support system, guiding them on their path and witnessing their achievements, not only within the modeling world but also in their lives beyond the runway.
It’s a rewarding journey, being the bridge between their dreams and reality!
When a Model Agent Is Interest In A Person, What Do They Do?
Wilhelmina Models Greg torchon and Bachi Front
Imagine you’re the scout, always on the lookout for potential models.
Your scouting adventures take you to different places, from early mornings at the airport to sunny days at the beach or even your little brother’s football game.
It’s a busy job!
Here’s how it works: At first, a model scout used to only focus on height and body shape. Those things are still important, but now, features, talent, and a strong social media following are just as crucial!
Once you’ve sorted out those criteria, you start searching for people who have at least one or two of those qualities. That’s when you make your move, either by giving them your business card or sending them a message on social media.
Also, keep in mind that what’s considered “cool” in the modeling world at the moment plays a big role in how you scout!
But it’s also a good idea for an agent to think differently and pick models who have a unique look, even if it’s not what the industry is currently looking for.
That way the model can change the dynamic of the fashion industry, pave a new lane and provide consumers with a fresh outlook.
Why Does Talent Need Agents?
Wilhelmina Models Hillary Jocson
Just because you excel in acting doesn’t mean you’re skilled at handling business matters, negotiating, managing schedules, and finding new opportunities.
Once you start landing acting jobs, you won’t have the time to seek out the next one, which may require planning months in advance!
Agents, they’re like your legal guardians in the fashion realm, ensuring your safety and endless growth.
Whenever an issue crops up, you turn to them for help. While you’re busy working your magic on set and at fashion shows, they’re out there scouting the next big gig for you.
Agents have a treasure chest of contacts at their fingertips, ready to tap into when hunting for opportunities!
They’re the top dawgs of networking and persuading clients to choose you.
Now, imagine you’re a client seeking a model or actor. You don’t have the luxury of scrolling through endless social media accounts let alone Google pages, in search of independent talent. What you need is to connect with an agent, describe your requirements, and watch them work their magic.
They’ve got this extensive pool of talent, and they know just how to find what you need swiftly and efficiently. In fact, they might even discover a model that perfectly suits your needs in delivering your fashion concept.
This is precisely why clients are willing to invest more in using an agency!
They make the process smooth, efficient, and ultimately, they deliver exceptional talent tailored to your needs.
Process After Getting Signed With A Mother Agent?
Wilhelmina Models Dan Mitchell
Well, at your modeling agency, better known as your “mother agency,” your agent kicks things off by capturing simple digital photos of you and recording a personality video where you state your name, age, height, and the agency or management’s name.
These digital marketing materials are important for direct bookings, casting opportunities and agency meetings in other fashion markets.
They all present you in your most authentic form!
These digital assets serve as your casting portfolio until you start building a more comprehensive one.
Your agent will coordinate photo sessions with various local photographers to help you establish an appealing portfolio that will grab attention!
The initial one or two of these sessions are referred to as “Test shoots.”
During these sessions, if you’re a female model, you’ll sport straightforward attire like jeans, shorts, tank tops, and bodysuits, typically complemented with an oversized blazer, jean jacket, leather jacket, boots, and other pieces that add a touch of drama to the simplicity.
Male models, on the other hand, will opt for jeans, fitted dress slacks styled in an old-navy fashion, solid-colored t-shirts (with some shirtless shots possibly taken), along with options like Vans, Converse, boots, dress shoes, and possibly more.
The point here is to capture your natural beauty, so makeup and hairstyling will remain subtle and au naturel!
Following your test shoots, photoshoots will take on a more advanced approach, weaving narratives and characters into the images.
Locations become more artistic, clothing choices range from commercial to high fashion, poses grow more dramatic, and facial expressions are infused with character and personality!
Once your portfolio reaches its full potential, your mother agency will send it to top-tier national and international agencies; and at times, host scouting events where talent scouts will visit to scout for new models; ESPECIALLY for fashion week!
There’s much more to your journey beyond portfolio development and scouting.
It includes participating in workshops that cover diverse aspects like posing and runway techniques, securing local bookings, and building an audience on your social media platforms!
Becoming a male or female model is a journey, not a sprint. If success happens to come quickly, stay resilient, have faith, and seize the industry by storm!
A Caring Agent vs A Money Shark
You were once passionate about modeling and acting but left your first agent due to financial pressures by your agent and a lack of job bookings.
Now you’re eager to give it another shot!
Here’s what qualities make a good agent, and this is how you can recognize the good from the bad.
Advice:
Stick with agents who take a percentage of your earnings, not those charging fees for representation, as they’re often not legitimate.
A trustworthy agent operates on a salary, not by making money from selling you classes and photoshoots.
If you’re applying to a model management, review their social media and website to confirm if they offer on-camera and voice auditions alongside modeling opportunities.
For a fantastic modeling network that connects you with model agents and agencies, look no further than Models.com.
Not only do they provide a list of reputable agencies and scouts, but they also offer engaging content about male and female models, top models, newcomers, rising stars, fashion week highlights, models’ street style, and much more. It’s a genuinely enjoyable website for conducting your research!
Good agents stay accessible by phone or email during reasonable hours. While some agencies recommend classes, you can often find more affordable options independently.
For photos, trusted agencies suggest photographers and may even negotiate discounts, but every model pays for their images.
Although, you shouldn’t be paying over $800 every single time you do a photo shoot. The agency director and the photographer will work out deals that are affordable to their models.
The most a model should pay for a photoshoot is $650 or less, especially with a local photographer.
Headshots range between 150 – $400 depending on what exactly the photo package offers.
If an agent advises new pictures, it’s likely for your benefit. As a talent, you need new photos at least every 6 months.
Be cautious if they push for more frequent updates without a good reason.
A good reason for quickly building your portfolio is if you have a marketable look,. You agency is preparing you for the numerous open calls they host with model scouts from other agencies. In order to get signed, these agents require a model to have a portfolio already in progress with at least 3-4 photo shoots!
Million Dollar Question
Do Model Agents Actually Review Online Submissions?
Yes, they do, but the process is swift. Agents sift through numerous submissions daily, so your first impression is crucial.
Typically, they glance at the initial image and, if it captures their attention, they’ll explore the rest of your portfolio.
It’s a competitive arena, and call-backs are rare!
Building industry connections can boost your chances. Consider joining a reputable “mother” agency; they often have networks that can connect you with reputable modeling agencies.
However, it’s still a challenging journey so stay consistent with developing your portfolio on your own until you spark an interest in a scout!