Expert: Kitty Kavey - 1/14/2005

Question
Dear Kitty Kavey,
   My name is Cassie.  I am an 8th grade student.  I would like to be in the acting/modeling business.  For the modeling business I want to be a fashion model.  For acting I would like to be in movies.  I think it would be great fun.  I would like to know two things if you would be happy to answer.  How would I be able to be in the modeling business (Like where would be the best place to look for a job)? Second, I would like to know how old you must be to be in the modeling/acting business.  Thanks you for your time and I hope that I didn't bother you.  I am looking forward to hearing from you.  You can email me at lvolz@casscity.k12.mi.us.  Once again, thank you so much for your time.
   Sincerely,
   Cassie

Answer
Although some models freelance and find jobs on their own, is more usual for a model to have an agent.  It is their job to find work opportunities for you.  When they do, they take a percentage off of the money you earn through them. (Usually 10-20%)  My suggestion is not to look for jobs as a new model, but look instead for an agent.  There are modeling agency directories available in your local library or bookstore, or online that will have names and contact information.  There is no set age that you have to be to begin acting and/or modeling.  However, some agencies have age restrictions on who they represent.  Sometimes even agencies who represent children exclusively will not represent those under the age of two, so it's always a good idea to confirm that an agency represents children before you send them your information for consideration or attend an open call.  There are also many books written on the subject of child acting and modeling that go into much more detail, a few of which also contain agency directories who specialize in children.
Good luck to you,
~Kitty