MODELING TIPS
CAROLE ALTENDORF
I am not a talent agency, but I am a good researcher.
That being said, the following is information I’ve found
for models and some of my suggestions.
Some model jobs can be found at NM Film.com. Under
“Public Interest,” go to “Casting Calls,” for movies, TV
and models.
Join different Facebook groups for models. Models of
New Mexico is a large group and I always post my work
there. Check it for model calls. However, most of the
model calls are for work for photos for both the model
and the photographer. But, do some work for trade
for photos to build your portfolio. It is standard in this
industry to work for photos to gain experience and learn
how to follow directions from a photographer. When
you’re on a Facebook page for models, look to the
right of the screen for other model Facebook groups.
Also, if you’re a young model, join Youth Models of New
Mexico.
Join Model Mayhem and upload as many photos as
they allow. I do know models who have been offered
paying jobs. Be sure to read all about Model Mayhem
when visiting their site.
Create a Facebook Fan Page.
Create a website using free platforms such as WIX.
Create a Model Page for NM Cliq Magazine, nmcliq.com.
NEVER PAY AN AGENCY TO REPRESENT YOU!!!!!!!!!!!
Modeling agencies work by obtaining a large volume of
models to send out to their many clients. Of course the
models have to be good models, but typically the more
models an agency has, the more money an agency can
make. Agencies receive calls or emails etc. from clients
who need models for any type of job. The agency then
points the client towards their models. The clients
choose the particular models that they desire for their
job, and as long as everyone is available, the models
are hired and the job is performed. The agency makes
money when the models are finished with the job.
After the job is done, a couple months later (don’t ask
me why it takes this long) the models get paid and
the agency takes a typical 20% commission off of this
(commission may vary, but this is standard).
In fact, speaking of contracts, DO NOT EVER agree to
anything unless you want to and be sure everything
you ever agree to is always in writing and signed and
witnessed! A contract can always be changed and
amended. Do not be strong armed into anything that
you don’t agree with! (Please see the end of this article
for information about modeling scams.)
If you want to be represented by a local agent, be sure
to interview them by asking:
1. How many actors or models they represent.
2. How many are working.
3. Of those working, what are they doing, eg. Print
modeling, speaking parts in films.
4. How much do they usually get paid.
5. If they are placing clients as background, don’t
sign with that agency because background find
their own jobs on their own.
6. Ask if you can speak with 2 or 3 of their clients to
find out if they are pleased with what the agent is
or isn’t doing.
7. Ask if they pay for comp cards and/or does the
agency have a printer who offers a reduced price
If you want a serious modeling career, consider if and
whether you can afford to go to NY, LA, Chicago,
Dallas, Denver for modeling jobs when you have
signed with a reputable agency. Please look at this
link for the top model agencies in the world and look
at requirements for submitting to them.
http://ceoworld.biz/ceo/2011/11/29/list-of-worldstop-20-model-agencies-best-modeling-agencies-inthe-world.
You can submit directly to the Ford Agency (one of
the top 10 Agencies) at this link: https://getscouted.
fordmodels.com.
Also, if you’re a minor you need a parent or guardian.
The top agencies will provide this. Also, in most cases
your travel expenses are paid by the agency’s client.
In addition to having the highest quality photographs
of you wearing different attire, poses and in different
locations, the agencies and their clients want what
are called digitals, which are simply photos of the
model in a swimsuit or leggings and a tank top, with
a head shot, 3/4 view, full body and side views. They
are the ultimate in non-creative photos (straight to
the camera, no posing etc.
VERY IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ ME
Avoid Modeling Scams
If “You've Got The Look”, Look Out!
What could be more flattering? Someone approaches
you at the mall and says, "You could be a model.
You've got the 'look' we're after. Here's my card.
Give me a call to set up an appointment." People
have always said you're good looking. Now, visions
of glamour, travel and money flash before your eyes.
It's true that some successful models have been
discovered in everyday places like malls, boutiques,
clubs, and airports. But the vast majority of would-be
models knock on door after agency door before work
comes their way.
It's All an Act
If and when you make that follow-up appointment,
you'll probably find yourself in an office filled with
lots of other model and actor hopefuls. Then the spiel
starts. What you tho ught was a job interview with a
talent agency turns into a high-pressure sales pitch
for modeling or acting classes, or for "screen tests"
or "photo shoots" that can range in price from several
hundred to several thousand dollars.
Man, woman, or child — it makes no difference to
bogus model and talent scouts. Often, these scouts
are after one thing — your money — and will say
just about anything to get it. But what they say isn't
always what they mean.