Finding
an Agency:
-
Don't sign with an agency until you have looked
around. And Don't sign with an agency just so
you can be a model.
-
Don't go alone if it looks unprofessional (in
fact don't go at all).
-
Don't hand any money over. An agent should never
ask for money to represent you. Your agent gets
paid when they get you jobs period! There should
be no cost to you up front, if there is start
looking elsewhere.
-
Don't use agencies that advertise in the backs
of magazines or newspapers
-
Don't over do the make-up or clothes and be
yourself. You never get a second chance to make
a first impression so make the first one a lasting
one (and I don't mean going in stinking of fish).
-
Don't sign a contract until you understand the
terms, and are happy with their terms. You might
want to get a solicitor to look over it before
you put your signature to it.
- Do
leave immediately if they ask you to strip or
if you feel uncomfortable
- Do
ask for examples of their work and referrals
of clients and models so that you can ask about
them.
- Do
ask to see some work samples or tear sheets
of the photographers used by the agency.
- Do
ask how much their percentage is. They shouldn't
get more than 20 to 25 percent of your payment.
- Do
listen up and ask questions if you don't understand.
What
do agencies do?
1.
They find new faces.
2. They advise and train their models.
3. They promote their models and manage their
careers.
4. They schedule and book their models.
5. They bill clients and collect fees.
Don't sign up with them if they say:
"We
can guarantee you work."
"As soon as you have trained, you'll be working."
"Our classes are completely full but there
is one opening. If you sign up right away we can
fit you in."
"You are exactly what we're looking for."
"We'll have you working immediately."
Starting out:
-
Don't get a portfolio done before you get an
agent, most of the time this is a waist of money.
Most agencies just want to see snapshots of
you first to see how you naturally photograph.
After you find an agent discuss your portfolio
development with them
-
Don't pay a lot of money for modelling lessons.
The agency should train you if they sign you
up.
-
Don't Send only comp cards, duplicate photo's,
or headshots, and don't expect to get them returned
to you.
- Do
take some photos. Make sure they are in focus
and show both face and full-body shots. And
don't overlook some of your best features.
- Do
practice, walking tall, walking in stilettos,
posing. This will make it easier when you go
to audition
- Do
gather as much information as you can, speak
with experienced models, talk with reputable
agents, read books and magazines
- Once
you become a model
-
Don't bitch. If you haven't got anything good
to say about someone don't say anything.
-
Don't smoke. If you do smoke try giving up.
- Do
get plenty of rest. Modelling is hard work and
you are often on your feet all day. Try and
have at least 7 hours sleep each night.
- Do
keep fit. Do aerobics, try yoga or go swimming.
It is important that you look after your body.
- Do
keep your skin looking healthy. Drink plenty
of water.
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