Expert: Kenneth D. Plonkey - 2/28/2010

Question
Is a modeling agency restricted to represent a model in its city of registration, the state, or worldwide?  I am wondering if an upcoming model has to register with one or more agencies during her career?

Answer
Hi Jim,   Well, no, an agency can represent a model anywhere it is licensed to do business, if a license is necessary, and if not, anywhere.  Usually agency contracts are exclusive, meaning you can only get work through that agency and if you should get work in any other way that agency is entitled to their percentage. An agency does much more than just try to get people auditions and employment, it also negotiates contracts and sees to it the talent gets paid.  It does often happen that actors and models change agents as their career progresses and they may move from city to city.  God bless, Doc