We all know the fairytales of how supermodels have gotten discovered while working as servers in fast-food restaurants. Although there's always the rather low possibility that you might be in the right place at the right time, it's more likely that you'll need to search for a modeling agent instead of them finding you. To help you make your own fairytale come true, here is a 5-step plan on how to find an agency.
1) Take polaroids
If you apply for a job, you need to send your curriculum vitae. If you apply for a modeling agency, you need to send your polaroids. In this context, polaroids aren't the fun instant camera photos you take at house parties, but just photos taken in a casual manner. This means that you can take them with your phone and don't need to hire a professional photographer.
The purpose of polaroids is to show your features so the agency can decide whether you match their requirements. Help them see the beautiful canvas you offer them by not wearing make-up and dressing in a simple outfit such as a white tank top and tight jeans. Less is more. Every client of the agency will search for specific kinds of models, so the more versatile you look, the better.
It might look like a boring ID photo, but a polaroid like this helps agents decide on giving you a call.
Take polaroids of your whole body, from the front and from the side, to give them an impression of your posture. Also, take photographs of your hands, your feet, and of course your face. I usually submit one portrait with a neutral expression and one with a smile to demonstrate that I can look serious but friendly as well.
2) Research agencies
Knowledge is power. Even when it comes to finding modeling agencies. The more you look them up on Google or social media, the more you'll understand which ones are bad and which ones are good. Here's a small checklist for good agencies.
A good modeling agency...
Has a modern website with contact information
Is active on social media
Doesn't ask for money upfront
Doesn't reveal the models' contact information
Don't forget to check on testimonials, too. Does the agency pay the models on time? Are clients happy with the way the job was handled? All of these factors help you decide on an agency that takes business seriously and won't scam you.
3) Submit photos and information
Found a good modeling agency? Does their models' style match yours? Then take a leap and apply! Usually, agencies' websites have an online form for new model applicants in which the agencies' requirements are stated as well. Especially agencies that focus on high-fashion catwalks and have luxury brands as clients require you to be of a certain height or size. A rule of thumb is the richer the clients, the pickier the agencies. However, rules are meant to be broken, so if you're convinced that you'd be a great match although you're perhaps a few centimeters too small, just submit your polaroids as it's free anyway.
4) Visit the agency
Exciting news — an agent wants to meet you at their office! It's not an audition for a specific job yet, so there's no need to be nervous. The agent will question you about your current profession and experience in the field. Moreover, they'll want to know about any scars, tattoos and piercings you have. They'll also ask which sorts of modeling jobs you'd feel comfortable doing. Would you be comfortable speaking in public? Would you be willing to pose in underwear? Remember that even if you don't pose naked, photos may look revealing. Don't hesitate to state your boundaries as the agent needs this information to ensure a good work environment in the future.
For this photo, I just wore a strapless top.
Agents take their own polaroids so make sure to have taken a shower and clipped your nails beforehand. Additionally, they'll measure your whole body including your breast size, inseam and even the circumference of your ring finger. It might feel a bit weird to be handled like a car that's about to be sold, but as long as the communication is clear and the measurements are done professionally, everything is alright.
5) Sign the contract
After a successful meeting, you get handed your contract. Read through it carefully and ask the agent any questions you might have. Once it's signed, your file with your photos and information will be added to the agency's catalog. From there, clients will choose the models they book. Your agent may ask you for extra photos to create a well-rounded file and make it stick out. To do so, your agent will usually refer you to affiliated photographers. These photographers either offer discounts for your agency's models or do it for free since the shoot broadens their own portfolio as well.
Don't forget to update your agent on any changes in your appearance. No more lockdown haircuts and no more late-night make-over sessions. Furthermore, notify your agent if you aren't temporarily available because of illness, pregnancy or travels. They'll simply take your file offline for the time being.
Follow these 5 steps and your career as a model can begin! Don't get discouraged if you don't hear back from an agency or if they reject your application. Rome wasn't built in a day. Keep on trying at different agencies and you'll see that your modeling dreams will come true eventually.
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