Expert: Kitty Kavey - 2/17/2008

Question
Hello Kitty, I have a very beautiful talented daughter who is interested in getting into the modeling and acting field, modeling being first.Without a doubt I know this is her calling and Iam very supportive of this idea. However I am very skeptical of this industry and the idea of finding a reputable agency/agent. I was almost taken on the Barbizon and recently researched them and found them to be a scam. Can you give me any advice on finding an agent for my 12.5yr old? We are interested in doing print work, commercial, and anything else she may do at 5ft. tall.She has been studying this field and did attend a convention for AMTC, in which her scores were good. please help if you can. Thanks in advance. PS, I know it doesn't help but we live in Ohio.

Answer
Perhaps you can travel to a larger market, or there may be an agency or two in your area.  You can look in one of the modeling and/or talent agency directories (available in your local library, bookstore or online) to see what's closest to you.
No schooling or training is required or necessary for modeling - although acting training in the type of acting your daughter is interested in would be something helpful.  Actors (unlike most types of models) do use a resume, and it usually lists training you've had.
You've been doing the right thing in researching.  Your state may not have rules/regulations regarding model/talent agencies - but you can check with your state licensing board to see if they do, and if they regulate talent agencies, you can confirm with them whether or not a local agency is properly registered and/or licensed and if there have been any complaints against them.
Good luck to you,
~Kitty