Expert: Kitty Kavey - 10/13/2008

Question
Ok, I'm learning about this industry and learning how to model/act in John Casablancas. I began classes being very naive about how to get a job. But yesterday, during a session, my...instructor, if that's what I would call her, told us that MTM, the agency who represents those in John Casablancas unless they choose otherwise, CAN get us jobs, but if we wait for them we'll never get jobs. So I listened, and didn't think much of it. But now, I think back to it, and I think, ok, so I can't sit on my butt and wait patiently for MTM. So what do I do, then, other than just discard her comment and sit on my butt regardless? I really want to do something with acting and modeling. So what would you recommend?

Answer
That is an interesting thing for an instructor to say - perhaps you can ask her to clarify what she meant in the future.

But for now, you could start the process of looking for an agent or agents to represent you for modeling and/or acting work.  You may need (depending on your age) to have professional materials available to submit to agencies (such as a modeling composite card and a professional actor's headshot/resume).

I suggest using the Screen Actor's Guild list of franchised agents on their website: www.sag.org, under Member Services (not I-Actor), Find An Agent.  Choose the franchised agents option, and the location closest to you.  The list contains many agents who have both modeling and acting divisions, although some only represent actors.

You can use your favorite search engine to find if the agents you are interested in have a website.  Many do, and usually put information for new faces/new talent on their website, such as what type of talent/models they represent, any agency criteria, and what to submit for consideration.

So basically, I would suggest first finding out what agents are in your area, and which of those you'd like to submit your information to.  Then get together whatever you'll need to submit as asked for by the agency.  Some agencies have open calls, some take only mailed in submissions, a few accept submissions over the Internet.

Usually, if an agency is interested in you, they will ask you to come in for an interview (or in the case of an open call, they may interview you at that time.)  Once you are signed to an agency, they earn their money by finding you work - for which they take a percentage (usually 10-20%) off of the money you earn through them.

You'll need to check with your instructor or the state where you're located to find out what the rules/regulations are in your area concerning model/talent agencies.  Florida allows you to be listed with multiple agencies for the same thing, while California does not.  Other states differ, some states do not regulate agencies at all.  So make sure you know what the laws are - it helps avoid potential scams.

I think that's the basics - and I wish you good luck and much success.  If there's anything else, please feel free to ask.
~Kitty