Careers: Acting, Performing, Directing/Modelling agencies

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Expert: Felicity Gain - 7/7/2009


Question
I have just recently been offered a contract with Risque Models in London, It was after I first contacted them. Has anyone heard of them and know if they are for real?  

Answer
Hi Courtney.

I hadn't heard of Risque, so I have just taken a quick look at their website for you. From what I can gather, they look legit- I even spotted a few girls I have worked with on their site. It is a commercial agency which means that you will never grace the front cover of Vogue, but you could get a few catalogue jobs.

Because they look relatively new, they will probably have to undercut other agencies or they wont get the work. This means you could get less money than a girl from another agency on the same job or you'll do the bottom/less glamorous end of modelling e.g., front cover of Computers R Us magazine or life style (in the kitchen' shots.

If you want to go with better commercial agencies, where you have a chance of TV commercials, advertising etc, then maybe try M&P, Nevs or even MOT at a push. I was with Profile in London and they have some commercial models- although most are editorial.

Whether to go with them? Well, if they are asking for a joining fee or 'training/ photograph' fee then def NO. If they are making you sign exclusively with them- then NO, as they don't look good enough. Otherwise, give them a go and sign with other smaller agencies too.

Hope that helped Courtney

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Felicity Gain

Expertise

The pitfalls and how to avoid them How to get a free test with a photographer Should you ever pay for test shots How to get on the books of an agency What is a casting How to maximise your chances of success at a casting The different types of modelling and what you would be suitable for How to ensure you sign with a good agency How to earn extra money to support yourself during the early years How to find an agent abroad How to walk on a catwalk What is showroom work and how to get the job What shots to use for different types of casting Model work available to models who fall outside typical phuysical statistics Different working environment in different countries and strategies to use.

Experience

I am currently a model and have 13 years experience in both editorial and commercial modelling. During this time I worked for catalogues, TV commercials, advertising, advertorials, catwalk, editorial, front covers and showroom. I have also diversified into other areas of fashion as a stylist and fashion journalist. This has given me a greater depth of understanding into what clients are looking for at a casting.

Publications
Company Magazine, Bartercard Bulletin, Tramp Magazine

Education/Credentials
Central St. Martins, 2007- 2008, fashion journalism and fashion stylist.

Past/Present Clients
Dior, YSL, Valentino, Ralph Lauren, Hugo Boss, Versace, N-Peal, GUS, Freemans and many others. Please ask if interested.

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