Expert: Kitty Kavey - 8/24/2008

Question
Im only 16 years old. i need to know how and where i could get into modeling.  it needs to be in indiana.  i would like to make a little money too. so can you help me?

Answer
Unfortunately, there's not much work and few agents in Indiana.  If you are able to get to the Chicago area, you'll have plenty of agents to choose from, as there's also a fairly good market there for both modeling and acting.

Since the only way a legitimate (and licensed where required) talent agency earns money, is by taking a percentage off of the money you earn through them (usually 10-20%) there shouldn't be any problem for you to earn a little money - providing of course you can get to an area where there is work.

So that's the issue you need to figure out - how will it be possible for you to get to an area where there is modeling work available.  In such an area, there are agencies available.  You submit your information to them (usually a couple of snapshots or a modeling composite card), and if they are interested in representing you, they will let you know.

Once you are represented, your agent's job is to find you work.  There are agency directories (available in your local library, bookstore or online) that may have listings from the Indiana area, and definitely from the Chicago area.

Just use caution when dealing with any agencies you may find in Indiana, as it seems that the state does not regulate or license model or talent agencies there, and there are no union-affiliated agencies there either, which leaves you little recourse should you have a complaint or problem.

Good luck to you,
~Kitty