The world of fashion is ever changing. Fashion designers try to stay ahead of the curve and they always require unique bodies and faces to showcase their products. As a result, there is a huge demand for high-fashion models that can showcase designs on the national and international runway. If you are planning to get in to fashion modeling, this is a great time for the industry. Almost every body type and facial structure is in demand and you can expect a comfortable job with a good income. However, getting into the industry is a little difficult and you do require a godfather or better yet; an awesome modeling agent or modeling agency.
Finding The Right Modeling Agency
• Prepare a portfolio — Before you actually set out, take the time to create a portfolio of shots. This folder should include photos of you in different locations, lighting, clothing, etc. Making a portfolio is expensive but it can be an instant way to catch the agency’s attention.
• Get in touch with two to three agencies — Working styles and jobs tend to differ and you can ask around, compare agency agreements, working styles, etc. before you actually choose an agency. For new models, small agencies are the best as they can work closely with the new model to improve their prospects.
• Payments — Most agencies will pay for a test shoot, comp cards, modeling lessons at an Online Model Institute, gym classes, etc. which will tone you up for shoots. Agencies do not ask for upfront fees even if they spend on making you marketable. However, once you are established, these fees will have to be paid back through job bookings.
• Agency requests – As a model, you have to remember that you are nothing more than a mannequin that displays the clothes to buyers. You may have to alter your face, your walk, and your appearance to suit changing fashion trends. This is to be expected as fashion trends do change over time. Similarly, a good modeling agency may also book your assignments far away and a certain amount of travel is normal. Its common practice for agencies to send models to Asia or Europe to model for different products and to pick up experience. However, no agency will ask you for these travels from your own pocket or to do duties that are not related to modeling.
The Bottom Line
Hiring an agency is the best way to set out in the modeling field. Just make sure you do your research correctly and hire the best agency for your needs.
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