Expert: Kitty Kavey - 12/3/2010

Question
My name is Debra Love and my daughter name is Jada she just finish a modeling class which cost me almost a thousand dollars for six months now that the class is over jada's teacher submitted her for a Global Stars Network Model & Talent Competition that will take place in L.A. in May of 2011 but she have to take another class to prepare her so all together the cost will be $1795.00 thats not including her flight and of course I would have to pay for my flight and cabin. I am trying to find someone that would sponsor my daughter, to tell you a little about Jada she is 15yrs. old in the 10th grade, she is 6ft tall and she loves modeling by her being so tall everbody have always tried to get her to play basketball but she hates it, she has always been so self-concscious about her height because every time she enters a room she get alot of stares and they always ask how tall are you so she really wants to use her height for an advantage. Can you please help us.  

Answer
If your daughter wants to model, she can go to a modeling agent and go to work.  Most types of models do not use resumes, nor is any previous experience or training required.  Also, if she wants to continue taking the classes and attending competitions, she can then pay for them herself.

There are modeling agency directories available in your local library, bookstore and online that can help you find agencies closest to your area (such as http://www.models.com/agencies/top/).  Many fashion agencies in New York, for example, accept online submissions from new faces, and nearly all accept mailed-in submissions of a couple snapshots and a cover letter.

So it won't cost you much other than postage and copies of two snapshots, and your daughter can be seen by the top fashion agents, hopefully sign with one and go to work.  Many of the agencies also have open calls your daughter can attend if she's in the area.  There is no charge for that either, nor does she need to bring anything such as a resume or portfolio.

Good luck to you both,
~Kitty