Through out the many years of our dealings in this industry, we have been
exposed to some interesting quotes, comments & observations concerning
modeling that you may find noteworthy, entertaining and educational.
Most of this information has been retreived from individuals posting
messages on ours, and various other modeling forums on the net. Although
we can relate to and agree with most of the content discussed below, the
opinions expressed herein has been retrieved from several individuals who
hold NO affiliation with Select Models.
Tips On Modeling
Each year, many young men and women travel to major metropolitan areas to
seek their fortunes as models. This information is designed to give you,
the prospective model, an overview of the modeling industry, tips on how to
decide whether you really want modeling as a career, suggestions on how to
choose a model agent or manager, and guidelines on how to distinguish
reputable agents from non-reputable ones. Managers and Agencies maintain
an on-going relationship with their clients who, in this case, are models.
They help direct all facets of models careers, from start to finish.
A manager or agent would not only get bookings for a model, but also give
advice on personal appearance, development of a portfolio, and the general
direction of a model's career. Virtually all models work through managers.
Occasionally, models new to the field will obtain bookings on their own
(freelancing). By and large, however, most clients (department stores,
designer showrooms, etc.) prefer to book models through a manager, who will
make sure the model is on time and prepared for the bookings. You may work
daily for long hours, or your jobs may be spaced out at infrequent intervals.
You should be prepared for both types of situations. And be sure to budget
carefully for non-productive times and lean periods, because you must pay
for your own expenses (rent, food, utilities, clothes, make-up & hair care).
Modeling is a hard profession to break into. Even if you are one of the few
accepted by a reputable agent, estimates vary on the percentage of these
models able to support themselves on modeling alone in any given year. In
a survey of New York-based model management firms, principals gave figures
ranging from 40-85%. Many factors... luck, the "look" in demand, and your
agents's skills, and your own independant resourcefulness may make the
difference between success & failure. One year, managers may want only
"girl-next-door" types but may desire more exotic looking models the next.
Of course, different managers and agents may prefer different types of models
in any given year. If you meet the basic physical requirements outlined later,
but are rejected by one manager, don't hesitate to try another. But if you try
several reputable managers and are not accepted by any of them, you may want
to ask why. Based on the answer, you may wish to consider a different career.
General Guidelines
There are different kinds of modeling discussed below. First, ask yourself
whether you meet these requirements and have the talents for the assignments
listed hearin. Be honest with yourself & summon the assistance of a trusted
friend if needed. A truthful appraisal now may save you disappointment later.
Runway/Showroom Modeling
The requirements for high-fashion models may also apply in this case. However,
ready-to-wear houses also hire models to show clothes to prospective buyers
in a manufacturer's showroom. Height & weight requirements may vary with the
type of apparel shown. The typical height for models in runway ranges from 5'8
to 5'11, but, women under 5'3" may be hired to model petite fashions. Or, a
clothing designer who produces larger fashions will require plus-size models.
Product or Specialized Modeling
Some businesses may use shots of different parts of a model's body in ads for
specialized products; for example, only hands for hand lotion commercials, only
legs for panty hose commercials, etc. Sometimes, advertisers may also use
shots only from the neck up for other types of commercials: cleaning products,
food products, cosmetics, assessories, etc.
Spokesmodeling and Hostessing
Much more common in larger metropolitan areas where promotional events and
conventions take place. These type of models are representatives of products,
and generally greet people attending events. Complete product knowledge,
congeniality, a professional appearance and strong communication skills are
necessary to succeed on these assignments.
(freelance modeling)
A model who generates her own assignments via self-marketing, personal websites,
self-funding advertizement & networking is classified as a 'freelance model'.
Children's Modeling
General appearance is the most important factor in children's modeling,
sometimes, however, reputable agencies will accept "character" children for
placement. These may not necessarily be the most attractive children, in
the conventional sense, but children who display a certain kind of personality
or animation. Parents who are anxious for their children to become models
may respond to direct mail solicitations from model or talent agencies.
Often, the child's name has been obtained from hospital birth lists, or other
sources, through a list broker. If you receive such a solicitation, it in no
way indicates that your child is suitable for modeling. A good indication
that your child may have a future is if you hear some 'how adorable, interesting
look, what a talent' comments from random people who you are not aquainted with,
while at the market, the mall or at public functions.
The following is a summary of what a manager or agent will expect you to pay
for, after you have been accepted. Shop comparatively for the best price.
A portfolio, or "book" is a collection of pictures of you. It should be
taken to every "go-see" (a type of "job interview" for a model booking.)
Portfolios are books that should be developed over time, and by several
photographers. In the case of child modeling, parents should update the
child's portfolio & resume when any changes occur in the child's appearance
(loss of a tooth, growth, etc.)
A "card" or "composite" is one or more pictures of yourself and a resume.
The picture/s can be taken from your portfolio. Your agent or photographer
can recommend a reputable printer who will make up a card for you at a
reasonable fee. The fee will cover a specified number of black and white
printed cards, with one or more pictures of you and your vital statistics.
This card should be left at every firm to which you are sent on a "go-see."
New models need not spend a large amount initially for elaboratly designed
or full color cards. Your card should represent you in the most flattering
way possible. Along with your portfolio, your card is the most important
piece of information about you.
Your 'biography' or resume is a summary of basic facts about you: your height,
weight, coloring, age, clothing sizes, and the name of your manager or agency.
In addition, you should list your professional skills, talents, abilities,
training, hobbies, interests, and any past modeling experience.
Headshot's are usually used in the acting & entertainment industry, while zed
cards, composites & tearsheets (actual ads showing you in a publication) are
for modeling. If you've been featured in any type of commercial advertizement,
definately obtain several tearsheet copies for future distribution & reference.
A headsheet is a collection of pictures & names of models and talent who work
through one particular agency. This sheet is distributed to clients, and
showcases a variety of talent available for assignments. Most agencies and
managers charge their models to be included on a headsheet, but costs can vary
widely, depending upon the monetary involvement of your agency. Be sure to
determine the fee before you agree to be put on the headsheet. An agent should
always obtain your consent before including you.
Union requirements
Any model who makes more than one television commercial is required to join
a union, either SAG (Screen Actors Guild) or AFTRA (American Federation of
Television & Radio Artists). Initiation fees vary from $250-$1200, with
annual dues ranging anywhere from $35-$150 per year. These are approximate
figures. Your agent or manager will provide you with more specific details
on unions, or will direct you to the appropriate source. Models who work only
on print jobs or who do runway/showroom modeling and high fashion modeling
are not required to join a union. Make sure that you can support yourself
until you begin to make money from modeling jobs. In some instances, unless
specified, you may be responsible for financing your own transportation, food
expenses, hair, makeup, hotel & motel accomedations, housing and rental costs.
Procedure
First, choose several agents or managers that you wish to approach. Find out
FIRST whether the are 'exclusive' or 'non-exclusive' agents. An 'exclusive'
agent contract will only allow you to work with that one agent specific to a
region or market, usually for a relatively lengthy period of time (usually
one to 3 years). A 'non-exclusive' agency contract will open you up to
signing with several agents at one time, giving you the option of being
exposed to several assignments from each different agent. In the vast market
of modeling assignments that exist in the LA area, We recommend dealing with
'non-exclusive' for one very important reason. It is a fact that not all
agents are exposed to 100% of the assignments available in this HUGE market
and region. Each agent likes to think that they can 'monopolize' a given
area, and possess 'exclusivity' within that market, but the simple fact is,
this is NOT true. Why do you think there are over 500 agents in this area?
There's just TO MANY assignments available in this region for any 1 particular
agent to handle. Some of those 'exclusive' agencies get SO BIG, that in
many cases, you will become 'just a number' to them, loosing any 'personal
or 1 on 1' assist that you would have ever hoped to obtain. In some cases,
the shear volume of models on their database can literally 'bury you' in some
pile of 'non-working talent', resulting in you never getting an assignment.
And what has that done for you? You've just signed up with an 'exclusive'
agent for a few years who will never offer you an job. This is a sad fact
that happens to many 'talented and promising' models in the industry. And
your Grandma was right when she told you: "Honey... Don't put all your eggs
in one grocery bag... you drop that one bag, you loose THEM ALL. If possible,
before signing any binding contract, we suggest that you have a lawyer check
out the legality and 'small print' of all contracts for 'loopholes' that
someone unexperienced may overlook.
Check to determine what kind of information your agent wishes you to submit.
If the manager requires a photograph, you may send snapshots or professional
photos. Most reputable children's managers will ask parents for at least a
snapshot of the child before making an appointment.
All models should specify the birthdate, height, weight, clothing sizes, and
hair and eye color on a typed biography or resume which is attached to the
back of the photograph. If the agent feels you have potential, he or she
will ask to see you, to do further screening and perhaps offer a contract.
If an agent does not contact you within a reasonable time, we recommend that
you call them up and request scheduling an interview time.
No legitimate agency should charge a prospective model to have photos taken
An agent may recommend the services of a specific photographer, or you may
solicit the services of your own photographer. We highly recommend that you
make sure whatever photographer you end up choosing will indeed be competant
in supplying the type of images that agencies require (check his portfolio).
It's a sad fact that the average phonebook photographer will usually have
no clue as to what type of images a model and talent agent will need.
Once accepted by a agency, you will be sent on "go-sees" for various bookings.
No legitimate agency should ever take an advance fee from you for any reason,
be it for a so called 'registration', 'consultation' or whatever. And let's
not confuse agents with those 'radio advertized model prep schools, model
searches & conventions', such as John Robert Powers, John Casablancas, O'Brian
Rottman, Barbizon, IMTA, Model Search America, Pro Scout, Model & Talent Expo
and others. They will definately charge you 'up front' fees, and usually
make promises of movie castings, agency interviews, with possible supermodel
status and stardom in your future. Because they are not agencies in their own
right, can never provide you paid assignments. All they will ever be are
EXPENSIVE middlemen between you and a legitmate agent. There are many
recommended sources for obtaining lists of available agents in your area.
Your public library is a good place to start.
Some agents pay models shortly after a job is completed. Other models must
wait until the client pays the manager. In any case, the agents commission is
deducted before you're paid. Be sure to ask which payment method your agent
uses. Also make certain that you inquire into the length of time between
the completion of a job assignment and receipt of your wages. In general, find
out as much as you can about the business practices of an agent while at the
initial interview.
While it is true that all models will need to have photographs made at some
point, non-reputable managers will often high-pressure you to have these made
immediately, through a specific photographer. Usually, such managers require
a deposit for the photographs, and require you to pay the balance before you
ever see the photos. DO NOT DO THIS! Some non-reputable managers and agents
make their money on photograph fees alone, or 'kickbacks' from photographers. Some
non-reputable child managers also engage in this practice.
If sexually harassed on ANY interview or assignment, contact the Sex
Crimes Unit of your local police department. Don't be embarrassed and
don't hesitate to file a complaint.
Even the very best agencies are constantly on the lookout for fresh, new
faces. If you should be stopped on the street or in a public place by a
person who claims to be or represent a modeling manager, ask for a business
card with name, address and phone number of the manager or agent. Never
give out personal information about yourself until you have had a chance
to do alittle background investigating on who you are dealing with.
Trust your instincts. Sometimes you just know when a business deal seems
beneficial, or on the other hand, possibly harmful. Check with your parents
or trusted friends, or with others who have had similar experiences. If you
meet the basic requirements for a model, and you want to pursue this as a
career, but remember, it takes time & hard work to achieve success. Don't get
discouraged, for you will get several NO'S mixed in with some of your YES'S.
Newly-successful models appear each year, and the next one could be YOU.
(an observation from a experienced model)
While on assignments, building your portfolio, or doing your headshots,
I believe that professional hair stylists and makeup artists should always
be used. This is such a big deal to me. Even beginning models & photogs
should spend the money to hire someone or learn a bit about hair & makeup
themselves. This can make or break an image in my opinion. (so true)
(a photographers concern towards modeling)
Observationally, I would like to say that there are perverts with
cameras out there who have labeled themselves as pro or serious amateur
photographers who are screwing things up for the true artists of this
profession. There's some sleezy jerks out there with more cash and
testosterone than they know what to do with, so they buy a crappy camera
(or an expensive one they have no idea how to use) and use this as an
opportunity to meet women. It's a shame, but it's all too common. I've
even spoken with models that say they endure the constant lame flirtation
going on throughout the shoot just so they can get paid and get hired
by an attending agent, promotor, or some other 'real' photographer with
some legitimate assignments.
Here's some information that was left on our messageboard a few years
back by an individual who identified himself as NOR, concerning a modeling
convention he attended. Take heed, and if you ever get involved in
such an event as this, you can't say you weren't 'advised'...
Here's the deal on Model Search America, ProScout, Manhattan Model Search,
IMTA, and others... the actual chances of you gettingdiscovered at one of
these events are VERY SLIM to NONE, unless you are the 2 or 3 percent who
THEY FEEL have what it takes. Out of 1000's of people attending these
conventions & competitions, over 95% of these people will not make it.
Most of these people were invited, 'chosen', or got picked from the
preliminary stage of the event as a means of bringing in a gigantic cash
flow to the event, the people who put up these events need LOTS of money
to rent the facilities, organize the events, fly in the agents & provide
them with accomodations, and they need it for advertizing, SOOOO, they are
NOT very selective at all when they start picking people during the 1st
interview you have, wherever it may be, they NEED to pick alot of people...
no matter how butt ugly and outta shape they are. Why? Because this is
what generates the revenue they need so badly. Also keep in mind that the
private information you leave on their registration forms is sold to
marketers looking to solicit materials to individuals within your interest
group. You can thank them for lots of unwanted junk mail coming your way.
NOW, out of these 1000+ short and stocky people that will not make it AT
ALL, they will also pick some people with good potential to make it in the
industry... probably 10 or 15 out of a few thousand. The truth is, very few
attending will actually have the body or thelook needed, there will only be
a few here & there scattered in the crowds. Anyways, I hope you understand
this, the advertizing ads you're hearing on the radio & reading in those
'teen magazines' are askin you to come to a preliminary interview session,
which really isn't an interview. This is where they look at you, and if you
are not too short or butt ugly, they will pick U. Here's where the catch
begins, because you have been picked you feel very LUCKY, but then you
realize that ALOT of people are starting to get picked, and they are not
being very selective. They are even picking many who are pretty obvious
losers, and not photogenic at all. At this point, the interviewer knows
very well that they will soon be wasting both their time and money... to
the tune of anywhere from 1 to 4 thousand dollars, depending upon whatever
convention you attend. After you are picked & shown a very inspirational
video complete with loud awe-inspiring thumping music, you're given the
actual event date, a few weeks away ordinarily & presented with the price
you MUST pay if you want to attend. Because you have been picked, you know
you will be picked again, and therefore must attend the event and pay them
$300, I mean after all, you were picked for Gods sake! That must mean
something, right? FAT CHANCE Freddy, time to buy a clue. If they only
invited those 10 or 15 people that had serious potential (height, beauty,
photogenic, very fit body), do you really think they could afford putting
on this event? No Way Jose... that is why they invite thousands of others
to come... its a serious 'numbers' game... all to rake in the BIG BUCKS.
They do have good intentions, dont get me wrong. There's been a few strong
talents & supermodel types who have been discovered through conventions
like these, but it's the thousands of other 'no potential' losers who
unknowingly act as the 'financial supporters' of those who truely have
potential. It's like social security tax! Every two weeks you get alot
of money taken out of your paycheck for the welfare and well being of
others! The same with these conventions, you pay NOT for yourself...
because chances are you WILL NOT get picked, but you pay instead to make
things happen for those who fit the industry standards and really look
good. YOU are the one that pays for all the agencies like BOSS, ELITE,
M&P, IMG, FORD, CLICK, TAXI, NEXT, WILHELMINA, LA MODELS, come together
in one place & only pick those tiny few with sparkling potential. NOW...
here comes the part I hate the most... lets say you do have potential...
lets say your a guy...you have always been told you should model... girls
drool over you....people always notice you when you walk into a room...
you are tall...6'2, 185 lbs.. fit, 32" waist, brown hair and green eyes...
great jaw structure... VERY photogenic..and you are young enough to make
it in the bizz... 23 for a guy is a decent age, for women, FORGET IT IF
YOU ARE OVER 21! Bueno, you have potential, now comes the agent photo
reviews where you get to shine before the agents, and show your stuff.
The agents line up along a long table & watch while one by one, hopeful
models walk on 1 by 1 with 2 of their pictures held up so the agents can
see and review them. Now, remember there are 1,000's of people for these
agents to see, and they are already tired, hungry and bored, but they have
been paid to SUFFER THRU the hundreds of wanna-bees and losers to get to
the few with potential, so they are stuck there, playing the game. Now,
each person goes by, first #1 model, then #2, then #3, then #40, then #100,
then #600, then #1300. Lets say you are that promising guy that is tall,
young & attractive and you are #1757 amongst the massive crowd... by the
time you are in front of the agents face, and showing your pics, they are
pretty 'burnt out'. Keep in mind that these agents have already seen 1756
people before you and their vision is getting PRETTY BLURRY, they are tired
and everyone is starting to look the same... case in point... have you ever
tried shopping for a perfume or fragrance in a mall, and wanted to try every
sample before buying one? Didn't they all start to smell the same after a
short time? There you go! This is what the agents feel like, and you being
#1757 out of 2 or 3 thousand doesnt help you out at all... in fact, it hurts
you tremendously. PEOPLE, keep in mind, these agents are only HUMAN BEINGS,
not GODS! They make mistakes & overlook some potential out there, it happens
all the time. Many of these conventions plan their events in ways that can
actually TRAP a participant from ever leaving, once they get you there.
This eliminates any chance of them having to give you a refund, or a close
relative stopping by to rescue you. Seems that all attendees who signup
from the western states are only invited to the NEW YORK conventions, while
those who signup from the mid-west & eastern states can only participate in
the LOS ANGELES convention. This makes it almost impossible to leave the
event, since you flew out & were picked up at the airport by one of their
representatives. I saw dozens of these wanna-bee models, crying on payphones
next to the restroom. Conversations like: Gee Mom... my name isn't on the
call-back list on the wall... I am so dissapointed. Sorry you maxed out your
VISA card for this. I'll find some kinda way to pay you back. To really
succeed in this industry, you're much better off FINANCIALLY and EMOTIONALLY
to attend a private 1 ON 1 interview with local agents. So there's the facts,
it's not a 'complete' rip-off because you do learn a small amount about the
industry when you are there, and you are provided a very brief opportunity
to be seen by few agencies, but remember everything I discussed with you
above, it's the truth. Take care and good luck with all your ambitions.
And last but not least, here's some information provided by a model who received
an e-mail from a Japanese client. Read it over & draw your own conclusions.
Dear Kelsey, Our company currently owns 7 of Japans most successfull
clubs and we are now opening our newest club-Fusion. The club is
situated in Roppongi, Tokyo & has already had $3 mill U.S spent on the
interior. The club boasts a huge aquarium which will be used as a show
tank, a 5 star restaurant and in the entertainment area there will be
professionally choreographed shows on stage each nite. The club will be
run as both a hostess bar where the girls make 1 million yen per month
and a section for dancers where there is only table dancing and no
touching and the girls will be easily able to make $500-$800 US per
nite as well as drinkbacks which is 1,000 yen per drink ($8 US) Table
dances are $40 US for one song. Our company is well established and
well respected in Japan and the type of clientelle we have reflects
that. My reason for contacting you is because we are seeking the most
beautiful girls available for this industry and we are willing to pay
introductory fees to anyone who can bring us these girls. We provide
accomodation and pay airfees. If you can help us please send me
an
e-mail; japchook@hotmail.com
Thank you,
Fusion Entertainment and Restaurant General Manager,
Sean Haydock.
Beware of this scam and other's like this!!! I went to Japan when I
was 18, it was truly the worst experience of my life! I first off
was sent there without a legal work Visa. Once I got there I almost
was stuck there. Once they get young girls over there they try to
take away your plane ticket home and sell you on the black market!
They promise you all kinds of money and a nice free rent apartment.
The apartment is 2 rooms & no more, just 2 rooms. On top of Japan
being a ugly & depressing country to begin with! Trust me on this!
A friend of mine had his girlfriend sent over there and he had not
heard from her in over 3 months. He was worried about her and asked
me since I had been over there if I had heard from her. He said in
the beginning she was sending him money and calling home on a regular
basis. Then she just stopped out of no place. He said it was as if
she vanished. He soon come to find out they had gotten her hooked
bad on drugs and that is where all her money was going and also where
they were making there money aside from selling her as a hooker.
I think someone needs to contact the U.S Embassy about this! DO NOT
fall for this joke and scam! If you have anymore questions please
email me! And please spread the word about this scam.
Thanks,
Kelsey Kelleen
kelsey@eudoramail.com
We hope you have benefited from the information we have compiled above.
If you have any questions or concerns on the material discussed above,
please feel free to e-mail us. (Gary Abigt-President, Select Models)
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