Expert: Kitty Kavey - 1/31/2009

Question
I'm 16, 5 foot 11 and I've had a growing interest in modeling for a long time. My aunt and mom are all for it, but my dads not. I don't know where to start or what to do. Can you please help me?!!!

Answer
Perhaps you could ask your dad to accompany you to agents/open calls.  If he had a chance to address his concerns and ask questions to professionals maybe he'd feel more comfortable with your pursuing your modeling interests.

If you are in or near NYC I suggest trying: http://models.com/agencies/top/

You can use your favorite search engine to locate the agency's website (most of them have a website now) and usually on the agency website is both agency criteria as well as instructions for new faces.

If you're in another location and NYC is not accessible to you, you can use one of the modeling agency directories (available in your local library, bookstore or online) to find the closest market and agencies to you.  However, keep in mind that for fashion modeling it is likely that even if you are represented by an agency in Miami or Los Angeles, for example, it is a possibility you may be asked to travel to the larger fashion markets (such as NYC, or overseas Paris, Milan, etc.)

What's important is that you get representation from a good agency, and that your father's concerns are eased.

Good luck to you,
~Kitty