Expert: Felicity Gain - 3/12/2009

Question
QUESTION: I know it is such a silly question, but my uncle was into male modeling and made good side money. I know all models have a different look and people look for different types. By looking at my photos, would I have the ability/look to do modeling part-time?

www.myspace.com/jimmy_rules


ANSWER: Hi Jimmy,

There is no such thing as a silly question, the only silly question is the one you don't ask- yes I am very wise in many ways :)

Okay, I had a look at your site. You are definately photogenic, have facial symmetry and a good strong look. If you have the height, between 5'10- 6'3, then you could absolutely give commercial modelling a serious go (you have to be taller than a 5'10 female model in heels after all).

Commercial modeling differs from editorial (high fashion) in the way that the model is more classically good looking whereas editorial male models have that very skinny Dior Homme/unusual look. You would be able to do catalogue, TV Commercials, showroom, advertorials and some in-house catwalk shows (not press shows).

A quick run down to getting an agency- just in case;
1) get a head and full length shot (doesn't have to be professional)
2) compile a list of agencies in your local area and major commercial cities e.g., Miami, LA and potentially NYC.
3) send shots to agencies on list,along with your stats (height, chest, waist, inside leg, shoe size etc)
4) BUYER BEWARE- NEVER PAY TO JOIN AGENCY/TRAINING SCHOOL. some agencies rip you off by making money from you rather than the client.

Hope this helps Jimmy and all the best.

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---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you! I am worried the people I am finding on the internet might be
"shady" ... how do I know I am contacting the right person with each agency?

Is there a reliable site to find this information?

Thanks again!!

Answer
Hi Jimmy,
Sorry for the huge delay. I'm actually super busy at the mo with my various business- self employment knows no bounds :)

Okay, so all I can tell you is that in the UK (where I am based) there is an association called AMA. They have a list of reputable agencies in UK. It may be the same in the US. When I modelled in NYC I went there through my mother agency in London so there was no question of 'shadyness'.

The only advise I can give is to never pay to join/training courses. Paying for photo shoot is ok, and some agencies even advance you the money. Really though, they should set you up with a testing photographer in the early days (a photographer who needs a model for pics cos he wants to test a new idea/is new on the scene).

Don't pay to go on their website either- that is their marketing tool and they should pay. If they think you are great they will put you on their site to attract customers.

Another thing you can do is ask to look at their 'book'. This is usually an A3 book with the models they represent inside. If they look a bit grim then don't join- use you judgement, we're looking for OC types remember :)

If they seem legit after all this due diligence then go ahead and sign. Speak to other models on their books at casting re their experience, who they think is good. Just generally keep an eye out for trouble and your ear to the ground.

All the best

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