8/23/2011

What Does A Model Agency Look For In Models?

By Jennifer Collins


1. Availability and Reliability- When you are working as a model, you will get calls or e-mails from your agent telling you about auditions and bookings. These can happen any day of the week, and you are generally given only a couple days notice, if that. Your agent needs to know that you are free to work and that you will always be punctual.

2. Hard Work - Many jobs demand long days. Shoots are fun, but they can often be ten hours or longer, so your agent needs to be confident that you have what it takes to remain a team player and stay focused during your booking. Having a great work ethic is important regardless of whether you are at a fashion show or commercial shoot.

3. Flexibility - Shoot dates and times can change last minute, and can occur during your day job, so the agent must be certain that you can arrange your schedule to meet the needs of a busy model.

4. Beauty - You have to have the "look". Beauty is a tricky word, as what constitutes beauty could mean something different to each person. What goes hand-in-hand with outer beauty is inner beauty. Having an inner kindness and confidence along with your outer beauty can make the agent like you and want to work with you more.

5. Personality - Having personality shows in photos more than you realize. Having a great personality will not only attract the agent, but it will give them an idea on how to sell you as a model.

6. Style - Look the part of a model and that you work in the fashion industry. You don't have to have a big wardrobe, but looking frumpy or in sweats is not likely to get you very far. Each time the agent or a client sees you, they see the whole picture and try to envision you in their ad or catalog, etc. Dress for your body type and look the part. Many models wear skinny jeans and a form fitting black top.

7. Current Photos - There is no need to include a 10-year-old photo in your portfolio. You may love it, and it may look great, but you need to understand that you look different now. Keeping your photos current can help save you time when going to auditions, because the casting agent will see the current "you" they saw in the photos.

8. Marketable Features - What are the things that set you apart from the other models? This is something to consider when selling yourself to an agent. Why does someone need to include you on the agency's model board? Showcase your best qualities in your pictures, and be yourself when you meet with agents and casting directors.

9. Skill - Are you comfortable on the runway? In this business, that is an important skill, and so are many other things. Make a list of what you can do. Things such as skiing, horseback riding, rock climbing, swimming may seem random but can come in handy for specialized bookings.

10. That Special Something - There is a quality in successful models aside from beauty and personality that makes them photogenic and intriguing. It's in all of us - it's just about being comfortable in our own skin to let it shine through. Take in the advice and suggestions of your agent and photographers when it comes to choosing photos that show off your magical side. No words can describe it, but all agents look for it.




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