step 2: finding an agency

Finding a legitimate, reputable agency isn't difficult. A little research and some leg work will do the trick. Below is a step by step guide that will save your sanity, and perhaps, your wallet.

1. get some good snapshots

   You need at least two snapshots—one headshot clearly showing your face, teeth, and hair and one full-length shot that shows your shape and legs. If you feel comfortable, show your legs and arms. Remember, you are selling yourself to the agency. Make sure your pictures reflect what they want to see.

   Naturally, an agent is going to want to know the color and texture of your skin. They can tell by looking at a snapshot what you will look like after the hours of hair and make-up therefore, keep it simple for your pictures. Wear your hair down and your make-up in a light style or none at all. They want to see your skin and bone structure, not your great make-up job.

   Now that they have seen your face they are going to want to see the rest of you and that calls for form fitting clothing. Nothing skin tight, too revealing, or TRASHY! If you look like a call girl, you will be passed over. They want to see your shape and proportions. Keep your clothing classic, but fashionable. Avoid anything too trendy. If you don't feel confident in what you are wearing, it will show. Wearing all black will make you look like you are trying to hide something, so mix it up a bit.

   Please be sure your snapshots are clear, in focus, and in color. If the wind is blowing the hair across your face, you have your dog Bo-Bo smashed up against your cheek, you have printed out a Web Cam shot, are in costume, or are surrounded by friends, an agent is NOT going to know what you look like. Look at your photos objectively and determine if they really represent you.

   Do you need professional shots? The simple answer: no, not until you are signed. However, some aspiring models like to get as much camera time as possible before entering the real world of modeling. It really is your call, but just rember that photos you think are fabulous might not be what agents want to see. You really should avoid photography studios like Glamour Shots for submitting to agencies. Generally, this type of photography is so altered that it won't give agencies a good idea of what you look like.
   
   

2. get in touch with agencies

Some people seem to think this process is a big mystery, but it really is pretty simple. Get out your local Yellow Pages or go to the library to get a copy of the Yellow Pages from your nearest large city. Call every single modeling AGENCY. I emphasize agency because there are modeling schools that present themselves as agencies. Avoid any agency with ties to a school (John Robert Powers, Casablanca's, Barbizon) like the PLAGUE!

Questions to ask: Do you represent plus-size models? What are your height and size requirements? Do you have any age requirements? (ask only if you are under 16) Do you require prospective models to take classes? If they say yes, it is time to hang up.

If you fit their requirements, ask to either schedule an interview or find out if they have open calls. If you live a distance away from the agency, do a mail-in with your pictures and information. Keep in mind that some agencies have a maximum number of miles you are able to live away from the agency. A good general rule of thumb is to look no further than a four hour driving distance away from your home town. If you are approaching a larger agency outside of your market, they may agree to represent you on a direct booking basis.

The difference between schools, scam agencies, and legitimate agencies Schools acting as agencies are only looking out for themselves. They will promise you anything if they know it will get you to cough up the $1,000 or so that they charge for their classes. Chances are you will never hear from "your agency" again. If you have the potential to be a model (are tall, photogenic, and have the right look) a reputable agency will sign you whether or not you have taken classes. An agency who will actually get you work will make their money off of the earnings you bring in from photo shoots, runway shows, or acting jobs NOT the bucks you shell out for their classes.

How to spot a scam: If they (without seeing you) tell you that you are perfect for them and they want to see you immediately, there is something fishy. In addition, if you don't meet the standard model critera for height and size and they still tell you that they can make you a star, you should stay away. Call your local Better Business Bureau and see if any complaints have been lodged against the school/agency. The bottom line is that a legitimate agency who is dedicated to making money off of finding jobs for their models will not charge their models a dime for anything. Listing fees, signing fees, and any other fee that goes directly to the agency are definitely signs of a scam.

"I am ready for NYC!" While the allure of the big city may be irresistable, you have to be realistic. Unless you live near NYC or LA you will probably have to move. This means being financially and emotionally ready to leave your home town for a new city. Though modeling can be lucrative, most models have to take a flexible "day job" in order to eat and pay the rent. Agencies will not pay for moving expenses, apartments, or relocation costs. However, if you won't be satisfied until you make it big in the big city, then go for it!

next: open calls & mail-ins