All You Need To Know About Modeling Agencies, How They Work And If It's A Good One

Kaia - DNA Models

Likely all aspiring models would want to know this, so as to make the right choice and avoid unnecessary mistakes. I receive lots of questions when talking about modeling. Questions like

• Do I even need an agency? 
• What is a mother agency? 
• How do I know if an agency is a good one? 
• What can I do to get an agency? 

All these questions are remarkable & fantastic ones, and I have a fantastic answer that will enlighten your day. I will start with the most frequent and my favorite

Hello Favour Manfabulous. "Do I even need a modeling agency?"
Hmm, for me I just say "Not Necessary" that's a NO from me, but I would recommend that you did get one.

The good thing about having a modeling agency to represent you is because they will do all the work for you while you relax. A modeling agency will help you find jobs, discuss with the client, take care of payment and contact you, so all you do is to show up. As an aspiring model having an agency will help build you faster, since they will groom you to become a professional model.

Now the odd side of modeling agencies is that they will take roughly a 20% cut from any of your earnings. Though, this is worth it since they got the job for you. The downside is that you are not the only one signed to the agency, probably you would compete with other models. You could do freelance work and do it all on your own. But usually these are guys and ladies who have a good reputation and left their agency because they knew they could make it on their own; they already had many connections and now connect with the clients on their own.

How do I know if the one I found is a good agency?
A few things go into knowing whether or not you got a good modeling agency

As a professional model, the first question, is the modeling agency getting you jobs, and if not, is it because of you, or them? It may just be that this is not your market. But if they are not networking well, it may be that they have poor clientele and don’t have much work available.

Also, how do you get along with your agency? Of all the agencies I have been with, I have had pleasant relationships with them. It is important that you feel comfortable and not pressured you will feel obligated and find yourself overstretched. You need to be able to say no. Remember, they work for you as well.

Finally, do they have unnecessary charges and fees? 
Most agencies will have a couple charges such as: portfolio, comp cards and website/digital fees. But this is about it. Anything else should be closely monitored and always ask why? Don’t get ripped off. If you can say that an agency has a fair amount of work for you; you get along well with everyone at the agency; and aren’t expected to pay for anything other than some composite cards/website fees and a portfolio, then it is safe to say that you have found a good agency.

Modeling Agencies 

What is a mother agency?
Basically, a mother agency is your primary manager. They are the agency you have a signed contract with. You may work with other agencies through them, but they are your primary agency, or in other words, your mother agency.

Lastly, What can I do to get a modeling agency?

If you are starting out just like I did, with nothing, then the first step you will need to do is submit some photos to an agency, or agencies, that you are interested in. So really the first step is to get some professional photos taken.

The agency can recommend some photographers if you don’t know of any, or you can get them taken all on your own. But most agencies are going to ask you to first submit some photos and they will get back to you. Then it is a waiting game. Most agencies will not want you working with other local agencies as they are competitors, but since you don’t know if they will accept you, go ahead and send them to other agencies as well.

Some agencies may love you but have many models that fit your look already. So all you really need to do is get some great photos taken by a professional photographer, and then start submitting. Then depending on who wants you, pick the one with the best chance of answering the questions above. Don’t be discouraged if this takes a while, I didn’t get my first agency for many many months.

By having the answers to these questions, you already have a great understanding of how to apply for modeling and how do modeling agencies work? Of course there are more, but these are the main agency questions and I hope you found them helpful.

I would definitely recommend getting an agency due to the resources and convenience they offer. By asking the simple questions of

• Are they getting me work?
• Am I comfortable?
• and are there too many fees?

You can decipher which agency is a good fit for you. Lastly, get some professional photos taken and get submitting. Take criticism lightly and try constantly. It’s like trying to get a job. If you show persistence and determination, eventually they may give you a chance.

Good luck ....

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