Freelance Model's Guide to Finding an Agency

I've been a freelance model for most of my career, until this past year. Many models eventually look into getting an agent. Sometimes it's because they want to appear more serious about their career, they're looking to broaden their market, or they feel it will garner them more work. No matter what your reason, finding and applying to the right agency is a big step in advancing your modeling career.

What Kind?

Before you run out the door and apply to every agency you can find, you need to find out what the right agency for you is. There's editorial agencies that book "edgy" looks, commercial agencies that book "girl next door", high fashion agencies that book "runway", and the list goes on. Until you know what kind of model you're trying to sell yourself as, I'd avoid putting in for any agency.

Beyond what kind of agency, you also need to understand what's the best market for your type. The best high fashion agencies are in the US are in NYC. Likewise, the best Talent agencies are in L.A. There's room in all major modeling markets for a mixture, but you'd do better to go to the best there is, and then work your way down.

The exception being if your type is not in high demand. IE. If you're a petite plus and don't already live in a major market, it might be best to apply to local agencies and see what work you get in your own town, before you leave for somewhere else. A good list of credits will be a benefit for when you finally make it out.

Keep in mind the terminology of the agency you're submitting to as well. A boutique agency only accepts so many new models a year so that they focus on developing their talent a lot more. This means your chances of getting accepted are slim. Where as a full-service agency will be inclined to accept not only more models, but a wide-range of models as well.

Where to Find Them?

Online

Many agencies now have websites that you can access from the internet. Some even accept email submissions, while others will list their open call times.

Phone Book

As many agencies that are now online, many more aren't. It's best if you look through your local phone book for "talent agencies" and start making some phone calls about their submission guidelines.

Paperwork?

If you're asked to sign with an agency you will be given a plethora of paperwork to fill out. Generally this includes your general information sheet, disclosure agreements, independent contractor forms, and the agency's contract. Make certain that you fill out all of this and verify that it reaches the agency so that this won't delay any payments made to you.

The agency's contract can be exclusive or non-exclusive meaning that you could be required to only book through them and not sign with others, vice versa, or a mixture. Make certain to read everything you sign very carefully so that you understand what you're responsible for.

Some contracts also include a "mother agency" clause. This means that even though you're non-exclusive with them (can sign with other agencies), that should the same gig come up with both agencies, you're responsible for booking it with them, instead of anyone else. A "mother agency" will also help you find other agencies should you move into another market.

Any agency you sign with might require you to get new headshots/comp cards made up to suit the style of agency that they are. The agency is not responsible for getting these headshots for you, you are! The agency might also deduct from your check the cost of promoting you as a model (faxing your info, listing you on their website, etc). The agent themselves will also normally take a commission anywhere from 10-15% of your payment as their fee. If you'd like to know what fees you'll be charged, ask for a list in writing. If they refuse to issue you a list, then don't sign with their agency.

Work

Direct Booking

Where a client selects you directly without a physical interview for a gig. In most cases there'll be a phone interview, but sometimes there won't.

Go-See

This where an agency sends you on an interview with the client so that the client can determine whether or not their interested in hiring you.

Need to Know

-You're responsible for showing up on-time and with the require matters for the gig. No exceptions, no excuses.

-If you can't make it to the gig, there's often a certain minimum time period you must call in. Failure to do so might result in a strike against you, monetary remuneration (if you cost them the client), or termination from the agency.

-No cellphones, food, or drinks. Unless otherwise specified.

-Be polite and professional. You might be working with this client and their staff again in the future.

-Call your agency to let them know how things went after the gig/go-see (audition).

Payment

If you read all that paperwork like I told you then you know what your agency's payment cycle is! Now, most agencies pay out from a gig every 30-45 business days, but some have special circumstances occasionally where payment might take longer, or shorter. Make certain you keep track of when you're supposed to be paid, so that you won't run into any trouble.