Where do I start?
Avoid photographers wanting to take nude shots, if possible take a friend with you to the shoot. If you’ve never done modelling before this will also be an excellent practice run for you. No doubt if you go to the photographers studio to book the appointment he will have examples of his work on display anyway.
Before going ahead with a photo session ask to look at the photographers portfolio to see if you like his style of photography. If you research what’s on offer well, it can be an excellent alternative. Obviously, the cost of hiring different photographers for a portfolio is prohibitive, but there are many excellent photographers out there who will do prints for time - and of course many more bad ones. This will show the versatility in terms of styles and it will prove that a model can work with a variety of different people.
It can be very advantageous to have photographs from different photographers in a portfolio. Avoid using pictures of the same shot. Make sure you get a variety of different looks such as swimwear, catalogue and lingerie, you get the idea, also get a couple of black and white shots in there. Make sure your portfolio has a selection of both head shots and full body shots.
Make sure you focus on quality rather than quantity, remember, you’re only as good as your worst photo. The standard size for the photos is 9 by 12 inches and you’ll need around 10 - 12 photos. You’ll need a modeling portfolio, I’m sure you’ll all know what one of those is but for those that don’t it’s basically a selection of pictures showing yourself in different outfits and poses.
The Comp Card
Comp card printing can get expensive - print them yourself and give each agency copies - they have stickers that they can put on them with their contact information and you will save money. You are going to want to sign with as many agencies as possible if you are serious about getting work. If you do - they will put their logo on it. Do NOT have a modeling agency print your comp card.
Be careful! Make sure the you have them printed on rigid card that will withstand a bit of wear and tear. For best results all of the photos should be the highest quality you can obtain at your stage in your modeling career. Besides a great head-shot, the comp card will have other photos that show your experience, your versatility, range, and what type of work you are seeking.
Poor reproduction makes your images look bad and as a result - makes you look bad. Additionally, the printing and reproduction quality is extremely important. With that in mind it is important that the images on your card are your absolute best and nothing less. In most cases, your comp card is your one and only opportunity to make a good first impression.
A composite card (sometimes called a ZED) is a model’s business card. What is a comp card? A comp card is what your modelling agency will use to market you. You’ll definately need one of these.
It is wise to choose the agency/coordinator carefully so you can stay with that them. You may need these if you have a dispute with the agency/coordinator. Keep copies of all-important papers, such as contracts etc.
The Agency
An agency or co-ordinator should represent models. The model must have a portfolio, and comp cards. The agency/coordinator provides you with work (That is their main purpose. It is safe to say that they work for you!) They make a commission on your fee.
GOLDEN RULE - Don’t go with an agency who asks for money up front! You’ll probably never hear from them again and I ceratainly doubt you’ll ever get any work from them.
Also check to see if they are reputable and genuine. The agency/coordinator provides you with a safe working environment and looks after legalities of the paper work for the job. They provide their clients with “Professional” models. Keep copies of all-important papers, such as contracts etc. You may need these if you have a dispute with the agency/coordinator. It is wise to choose the agency/coordinator carefully so you can stay with that them.
How do I approach an agency?
Reputed agencies/coordinators might have open interviews during the week, give them a call and find out. Be concerned if the they claim to be looking for ordinary people. They should not ask for money up-front for classes or training.
If they don’t allow you time to think about it or if they use pressure techniques to sign the contract, be concerned. Ask for names and phone number of clients and call them to verify the information, be concerned if they promise you work right away or promise you high salaries. Ask to see what work their models are currently doing? Ask lots of questions. It will tip off viewers that you have something to hide.
Forget about baggy clothes! Also a full length shot that somewhat reveals your figure, a clingy dress , swimsuit, figure flattering clothes or other tight fittings garments should be worn. A head shot, natural and clear. They don’t have to be professional pictures.
Bring at least 2 pictures. Book an appointment ahead of time by phone. The oldest way to go about it is to visit them.
Modeling tips
Written is sometimes the best. Make sure that it is followed up on. If you have a verbal or signed agreement on traveling expenses etc. Mainly YOU should be proud of it.
“If you pose for a photo that you cannot show your family and friends, and be proud of it, it wasn’t worth doing”. What you do today can affect your career later down the road. Don’t ever do anything that you might be sorry for later. Don’t just drop out of contact because you don’t like what’s offered - either negotiate or say, “Thanks, but no thanks.” You never know, the employer you turn down could well have your dream job later - and if you treat him or her rudely or with disrespect, you’ll likely miss out.
You need to be prepared to negotiate with prospective employers, regarding everything from pay to content. Keep in mind that modeling is a business, not a personal venture. Most will, but always be prepared for the “just in case”. In case the photographer cannot provide adequate transportation.
Always take along enough “cash” for cab fare etc. If nothing else, go by your gut feeling. Make sure that you know exactly what the shoot consists of, and never feel pressured to do anything that you do not feel comfortable doing. You might want to rethink the shoot. Get phone numbers and addresses if possible, if he/she is hesitant.
Never take anything for granted. And be sure that a legitimate photographer is doing the same with you. Check and double check. That would include other models and/or assignments that the photographer has had. Get references, as many as you can.
Always think of the could be’s. Always take your own make-up; even if he/she has told you there will be a make-up artist there. Don’t always think that he/she will have everything that is needed for the shoot. Always go prepared : ie…clothing changes that you know will fit you.
And be sure to tell the photographer that someone knows where you are. Punctuality is very important.”safety tip”: If you are not taking anyone with you to the shoot, let someone know where you are and with whom. Always be on time, if you cannot, be let the Photographer know.
Top Modeling Agencies:
IMG - This modeling agency can count Gisele, Kate Moss, Tyra Banks, and Heidi Klum as clients.
DNA - This modeling agency is fashion focused. Not right for aspiring models interested in film, music, or television.
Women - This modeling agency is perhaps the easiest to sign with out of the top 3, but still quite select.
Marilyn - A modeling agency with a clean honest management team.
1 Management - Ambitious modeling agency, only the hungriest models need apply.
Elite - A fixture in the modeling business.
Next - This modeling agency has focused on a booming catalogue business.
Ford - Older modeling agency, still top choice and recognized name.
New York Model Management - Always looking for the next new face. Accepts email applications.
Vision - A smaller agency that has launched the careers of several super models to date.
Trump Management - New York agency that boasts several cover girls.
Karin - One of the industry's top agencies for nearly 30 years.
Major - On the fast track to becoming a top contender in the modeling industry.
Wilhelmina - Offices in NY, Los Angeles, and Miami. Nurtures and recognizes new talent.
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