Expert: Michelle Renee Krehl - 6/14/2009

Question
Hello, I am sixteen years old and I am interested in commercial modeling. I was wondering how I can find an agent as well as get comp cards. I have a portfolio, just no comp cards. Do you know of or recommend any agents in the Tri-State Area? I live in New Jersey so anything in Jersey or New York would be best. Is there any place that I can possibly get started without having to pay money? Also, where can I look to find local casting calls? Any other useful information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time.

Answer
Danielle,

Being near New York puts you in one of the best areas for modeling you can possibly be in!!

If you are interested in commercial modeling (rather than fashion) I am guessing you are not extremely tall?? If you have a portfolio, (a professional one, preferably one with tears from prior work) then you might just want to take that with you to some open calls or see if you can get some interviews. If an agent is interested in signing you, they will assist you in choosing shots for your comp card.

As far as starting with no money, well, no agent will require money to sign you, but you will have to invest money in your cards, and more than likely a few shoots. Agents almost never front the money for these expenses, as there is not a guarantee you will book the jobs to pay them back. With this economy they do it even less.

There is an agency in Manhattan called Flaunt Models, which is a decent and well respected commercial agency. They are also a good "starter" agency. I am not sure about how much call there is for commercial models that are 16, however. But you cannot know without trying. There website it www.flauntmodels.com, and I think you can upload shots and info directly to them. Many agencies have commercial divisions. Some also have teen divisions. Since I have no idea what your height or stats are, I cannot say if you are suited to submit to some of them, but there is never any harm in attempting.

Cards are really not that expensive, and many agencies have good relationships with printers and give great deals to models with representation. I pay less than $100 for 100 cards. And my cards belong to me, not my agent. I send them a stack every month, and update with new photos every year or so.

Good luck to you!

Michelle