How to Select a Local Model Agency Without Getting Burned

If you are an aspiring model, especially a beginner, you'll want to read this article before making any
contacts to model agencies. It's tough enough pursuing a modeling career when you are prepared but almost
impossible if you aren't!

The old cliche that says, "I'll just go down to the corner of Main or to the mall and get discovered." is totally
bogus! Believe it or not you're going to have to do some honest work to create a need for your modeling
services. Contrary to the statement above, most models are not discovered on the street corner; they were
"discovered" by making contacts.

Even though you will be turned down by some agencies, you're in good company. I'd like to share some
"failure" stories with you.

1. Elvis Presley was turned down and told that he would never make it as a singer.

2. A music group was turned down by a major record company because "groups using guitars are on their
way out" stated the company. This group was The Beatles!!

3. Tyra Banks was turned down by 4 out of 5 agencies and barely squeaked through the fifth door. Also
turned down at one time or another were most of the other superstars.

But, they all had one thing in common, dedication and persistence. They didn't take the first no as an insult.
If you are turned down by an agency, go on to the next, and the next. Remember, it's always too soon to
quit!

The biggest question I can think to ask is; "How committed are you to doing the really tough work involved
to become a model?"

The world of modeling is very competitive and only those willing to put in the hours of practice and the
other time it takes to make contact after contact with model agencies will be able to work in the modeling
industry.

Contacting Local Model Agencies - Here are five tips if you plan to promote yourself locally...

If you plan to promote yourself locally put together a professional portfolio and keep contacting model
agencies & photographers who may need your services.

1. Set goals for what you want and keep at it.

2. Steer clear of agencies who ask for large sums of money for so-called "training" unless you feel that you
just want that particular experience.

There are plenty of legitimate agencies out there. You may want to try doing a search online for local model
agency listings in your state.

3. Advice from consumer advocates, former (modeling) customers and ex-agency employees for avoiding
modeling scams:

Avoid paying fees in advance. Legitimate agencies make their money from commissions. If you're asked to
pay for extra composite cards, check out the company with the Better Business Bureau and state consumer
officials.

If you are asked to sign a contract, take it home first. If they refuse, walk away.

Ask for reference lists of clients and ask what kinds of jobs the agency books.

4. Talk to other working models whenever possible. They can give you valuable insight and maybe steer you
to a good agency or clients.

5. Always take someone with you when going to interviews or photo shoots. - SAFETY FIRST! I can't
stress this enough!

These ideas are just the beginning in your modeling career! Take your time and learn everything you can
about modeling and the agencies before "jumping in" and you'll have an easier time than those who don't.
Success in modeling will take effort on your part. Go for it!

How to be Prepared for Your Fashion Model Shoot

The fashion model session - What to pack in your model case

OK, you're off to a model photo shoot. But, did you remember to pack your bag? Did you put everything you need in it? I hope this article will be helpful to you and start you on the right foot in making sure your model bag is complete.

What do you bring?

What you bring to your model photo session will depend upon whether this is your first shoot for a portfolio or a paying job. Either way, this section will help you to be prepared for whatever reason you're doing the model session.

First things first - Know what the client wants

If you are shooting for an agent or client, he will tell you what to bring but you still need to carry basics in case of changes in hair, makeup, etc. All the tips listed here are meant to be a guide and a checklist of sorts so you can always add to the list when you feel it's necessary.

Ready? Let's get started to create your model "kit"

Below I'm going to list suggestions for your photo shoot mainly so you don't forget anything the day of the shoot. In fact, I'd like to see your model case prepared before the day of the session so there's no rush. You may want to copy and print the section below so that you'll have a guide handy each time you go for a photo shoot.

You're now standing lifeless in front of your closet - Wardrobe Essentials

Here are the essentials for your wardrobe. As stated above, some of the clothing listed here will be provided if this is a model shoot for a client.

- Casual - blue jeans, sports & knit tops, button up tops, shorts, cutoff blue jeans, etc.
- Business Suit - for a different look
- Sports (exercise, uniforms, shorts, etc.) - If you plan to do some sports modeling
- Lingerie - If you plan to enter the lingerie market
- Swim wear - needs to be a bikini that really flatters you
- Any props like hats, neckties, men's shirts, jackets, etc.
- G-string & bra in flesh tone color - This is to eliminate lines that show under clothing
- Hose/nylons in an assortment of colors
- Socks in different colors including black and white
- Bring several different bras including at least one push-up and one in flesh tone color
- A robe to wear between changes during the photo session
- Bring a scarf to wear when changing to help keep makeup off client's and your clothing
- You may also want to pack an iron or steamer for those wrinkles that are bound to show up from the trip.

Accessories - You've got to have something to compliment the clothes, right?

Along with each outfit, try to bring accessories which will accent or match the outfit. Keep accessories simple.

- Assortment of necklaces
- Earrings
- Bracelets
- Choker (these are popular at the time of this writing)
- Wristwatch - You normally wouldn't wear a watch unless you are doing a photo where you will be looking at the time.

Shoes, Shoes, Shoes

As with accessories, shoes should match or accent the outfit. But, you can also think outside the box on the subject of footwear. For example; High heels have a totally different look with jeans or swim wear than with an evening dress.

- Dress shoes - Bring several different pairs
- High heels - Also an assortment
- Jogging shoes - white
- Boots or high heel boots
- Sandals

Don't forget about the hair

Below are some items you'll need for your hair (or hair removal)

- An assortment of combs and hairbrushes
- A curling iron
- Hair rollers
- Straightener
- A couple of headbands
- Shaving cream and a couple of sharp razors
- Anything else you use for hair care

When coming to the model shoot, I would suggest leaving the hair fairly natural with very little (if any) hairspray so that you, or the MUA, can work with it after you arrive.

Makeup and facial

Even if your shoot involves a make-up artist, you still may want to pack the following ...

- Your complete makeup kit along with a mirror
- A moisturizer
- Cottonballs and swabs
- Lip balm
- Vaseline
- A good skin cleanser
- Several different shades of lip color (be sure to bring some solid colors)

Nails, finger that is.

A quick tip about nails. Remember that in photos, your eye will move to vivid colors first, especially red. So, take this into account as to whether you want people viewing your hands or your face.

- Here is a checklist for nail products to take to your photo shoot.
- Your complete manicure kit
- Nail polish with neutral color
- Remover kit for nail polish

A nice manicure will really enhance your model photos, especially images where your hand is near your face in close-ups so pay particular attention to your nails.

This should pretty much cover you for most photo shoots but as stated above, listen to the photographer or client and be sure to bring wardrobe he or she wants.

Now, you're ready so off your model photo session!!!

Stay Alive during Your Model Agency Interview

First Impressions - You get one chance

The old saying goes, "You only get one chance to make a first impression".

This is true in almost every situation and modeling is no exception. When you finally get that model interview that you've been hoping and working for, bring the very best of everything you have to the meeting. Don't hold back; you may not have a second interview!

I am going to mention a few tips to help stack the deck in your favor. When I say this, don't believe for a minute that this will guarantee you a signing with the model agency. It won't. There is generally going to be fierce competition out there and it may come down to you and several other models. If this is the case, you'll want your presence to shine through giving you that oh so minor edge over the others.

First, let's talk about preparation for the interview.

Should I wear makeup or not?

Agents don't want to see your face made up like a Barbie doll. They (or their clients) can make you look the way they require after you are signed. The agent at the first interview wants to see the real you so that he or she knows the material available to work with.

So, you have two choices; Either wear no makeup at all to the model interview or just a little. The latter being my suggestion.
By a "little" I'm talking very little such as ...

- Some concealer to hide major blemishes
- Mascara and just a touch of natural-looking eye shadow
- A hint of blush to bring out the cheeks

And remember, be sure not to overdo any of this. The agent should barely be able to tell you're wearing any makeup at all so just enough to look natural "on purpose".

What to wear to the agency interview

I would suggest wearing clothing that accents your body without being overbearing. You don't want to look like a prude or "easy prey".

Don't wear excessively tight clothing or a blouse with a plunging neckline. You want the agent to first look at your face. Just a good, sensible casual outfit should work fine especially since you'll be wearing very light makeup to the interview.

From a photographer's point of view I would also suggest a button-up shirt with long sleeves. This always looks nice and gives a down-to-earth appearance. Use good judgment when dressing.

Photos or Portfolio

As I stated in the portfolio section of this book, you don't absolutely need a portfolio to take with you to the model agency interview. However, you do want to take the very best photos you have to make a good impression.

How many photos? Again, you're better off carrying only three or four of your very best shots than a portfolio book of 50 mediocre images. So, as a rule of thumb, I'd say to take from three to five good snaps including one headshot and one full body shot to the agency interview. If the agent needs to see more she'll ask for them.

Let your personality shine through

If there's one thing I've learned about professional models, they are definitely not shy!! So, one step in becoming a professional model is to look and act the part. I'm not saying to have a cocky or arrogant way about you.

Just show a pleasant confidence. Here are a couple of pointers.

- Let the agent put his hand out first and then give a good, firm handshake
- Look the agent in the eye
- Smile, Smile, Smile (Let your natural smile show, not a head bowed, nervous smile). Practice in the mirror 'til you have the right effect
- Lean a bit forward when the agent is speaking (this shows you're interested and listening)
- Copy the agent's body language (Be subtle about this but if the agent has his legs crossed or hand to the chin, easily follow and do the same)
- When asked, describe yourself in concise terms, don't ramble
- You have two ears and one mouth; use them in that order.
- Never argue (even if you disagree with what the agent is saying just smile and go on with the interview. You don't have to work with him if the disagreement is unsolvable)
- Get the agent to talk about the model agency; You'll learn more and develop rapport with her because people love to talk about themselves or their business

I know this is a lot to remember so a good way to make this information your own is to get a family member or a friend to conduct a rehearsal interview with you so that you can practice these skills. After a while you will be performing them naturally. If you know a working model, even better to let her help you.

No matter what, don't get defensive

OK, so you've made it through those awkward first moments and the interview is going great. All of a sudden the agent mentions that he would like to talk with you on another date; after you've lost 10 pounds!!

What do you do now?

I know, I know, weight is a sensitive issue with women, especially models, but you should take this in context. First I would thank the agent for his advice because he knows what his clients (and your future employers) want.

If you decided never to talk to that agent again, I would suggest following that advice and lose the ten pounds before setting up an interview with a different model agency.

Losing weight, getting a haircut, or staying out of the tanning bed is not an unusual request in the modeling business so listen to the advice. They are not always right but they are the ones who hire you (or not!).

Secondly, if you really listened, the agent said she wanted another interview with you which means she has enough interest in you to pursue your relationship further. Isn't that terrific? You may have scored with this agent!!

So, let the other model (the one who wasn't listening) storm out of the room in indignant embarrassment but you keep your head and maybe get the job!

Remember these tips during your model interview and present yourself in the very best light. I feel that you will have a definite head start on those models who just walk in with no idea of what to do. Most success is learned. If you don't have it, fake it! Pretty soon you'll find it!