A photographer recently asked me how agency models are referred to clients. She had questions like "How do agencies and clients select models?" and "What jobs can you book models for?". This FAQ presents all the answers to model booking questions.
Agencies offer jobs for occasions including trade fairs and sporting events.
How do clients find models for a project?
Firstly, the client contacts the agency and informs them about the job they offer and the models they require. Secondly, the agency pre-selects a range of models that fit the brief. For example, for a jewelry photoshoot, models must have a specific ring size or are required to have ear piercings. Thirdly, the agency asks the models whether they are available on the date of the project and tell them about the type of job and its expected salary. Sometimes, the client also needs photos or even videos of the model to make sure that they are the perfect match. This means that the models, if interested and available, also need to deliver this material as soon as possible. Next, the client selects the models and the agency informs them about the client's decision. Lastly, you get more concrete information on the job like what to prepare (e.g. wax your legs) and details on the location and timing.
Once you accept a job offer, you're booked and can get ready to rumble.
Do models have a say in the selection of jobs?
Yes, of course. An agent never books a model without their prior agreement. Communication is key, so tell them about any doubts, appearance and lifestyle changes you might have.
Are there specific rules when accepting a job as a model?
When accepting a modeling offer for a client, you're required to be free on the days of the project and arrive on time. You'll also need to be healthy and ready to commit to the project. Depending on the project, you might have to work with animals, drive a car or exercise. Real America's Next Topmodel Style. While general rules are stated in your modeling agency's contract you signed when agreeing to work with them (e.g. what to do if you're suddenly ill), the specific requirements for each job are given by your agent before the job itself.
Don't hesitate to ask your agent questions before you accept an offer. Let them know if you're unsure if you fit the requirements (e.g. have the right hair length) as your agent will seek answers from the client right away.
What jobs can you book agency models for?
Often, agencies have a specialty like high fashion or commercials. In general, agency models can be booked for a broad range of projects including...
Fashion shows
Commercial photo- and video shoots
Showroom appearances
Hostess jobs at events
Fit modeling
How much does booking a model cost?
The price mainly depends on the sort of job, its duration and whether the picture rights will be sold nationally or internationally. A model is usually booked either for half a day (4 hours) or a full work day and receives compensation for their transportation and accommodation costs as well as overtime.
Generally speaking, some of the highest-paying jobs are commercial ones that take several days to shoot and buy out the model's picture rights to use the visual material for ad campaigns all over the world on different social media and on television.
Can I as a client directly contact the model if I was happy with their work?
No. To keep the relationship professional, all pre- and post-job communication between the model and the client should go via the agent. This has been the way the client found the model initially, so cutting out the agency later is even considered a breach of contract.
If you want to give feedback on the model after the job is done, the agent will inform them about your review and can arrange new bookings with them.
Got any other modeling or agency questions you'd like an answer to? Let me know by sending me a DM on Instagram and I'll address it in my next FAQ!
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