Starting your own modeling agency will put you in touch with some beautiful faces, but to make it in the modeling agency business, the name of the game is contacts.
Get experience. Work for an existing modeling agency to get a hands-on feel for the business. Modeling agencies succeed because of the talent they represent and the contacts they have to get jobs for their models. You’ll need to know where the work is before you go out on your own.
Choose the type of model your agency will represent. Most agencies only represent young women, ages 15-19. Others specialize in plus-size models or older models 40 and above. Determine your specialty by the type of model and contacts available in your area.
Identify the market for your area. If you only have local contacts, your business will be limited to the work in your area. Modeling hot spots such as Los Angeles, New York and Dallas attract larger companies and deal with contacts from around the world.
You need a portfolio a.s.a.p. There’s thousands of companies in the phone book and on the internet that will tell you to purchase a “professional portfolio” from them. This is totally not necessary, unless you have a few hundred (or more) dollars to throw away. Instead find a local photographer who is willing to do a “TFP” shoot. TFP stand for Time For Prints. This means that both you and the photographer benefit from the shoot.
Put together a portfolio. Any model starting out needs a portfolio with professional photographs to present to potential employers and agencies. Hire a photographer with experience in putting together models’ books.
Include your stats in your portfolio. This will include your name, contact information, measurements, height and weight.
Look for a modeling agency. Any aspiring model requires an agent to break into the business. Top agencies, such as IMG and Ford, will occasionally have open calls that will give you the chance to get signed.
Talk to an agent first
To get started, take your mum or dad to an agent and speak to them very openly about what you want to do and why. What do you need in order to get started?
Most of these agents, who you will find online, do have a drop in session however some will have a strict appointment policy, so please check first before setting out. At least make sure your time is worth spending before buying that train ticket or spending mum and dad’s money buying petrol to take you there.
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