Expert: Kitty Kavey - 7/24/2007

Question
QUESTION: ~What is the best way to get into commercial modeling?
~Is there any way to look for casting for those jobs or are they more agency based?
~ I am a porpotioned size 13 is there any hope for fashion modeling for me?
~ How do you feel about the sites that have cating calls online because I know many of them are scams?

Many questions...sorry...but I can't wait to read you r answers.

ANSWER: In my opinion, the best way to get into commercial print modeling, is to get a competent, licensed agent.  There are castings posted online, but as you mentioned, it can be difficult to tell the scams from the gems.  In particular for new models, I think it is very important to have someone (your agent) who is looking out for you, and whom you can call if there is ever a problem.  
For plus-size modeling, which falls generally between sizes 10-20, you still need to satisfy the height and age requirements set by the individual agency, and of course be photogenic.  If you're in the US, we have one of the largest grouping of agencies that represent plus-size models - and several of the books written about plus size modeling also contain agency directories.  
And going back to the online thing - I do know quite a few independent models who are and were successful, and who used sites like StockModels.com (now called D2models.com) Florida-Models.com, OneModelPlace.com, IndependentModeling.com, et al.  I do feel that freelance modeling (working without an agent) is not worth the 10-20% you'll save if you're a new model, or don't have good instincts that allow you to easily weed out the bad from the good.  Although I haven't had a bad experience, I have heard stories in the news, and for that reason always recommend an agent.  
Good luck to you,
~Kitty


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: How should I go about looking for an agent in that field, and are their agencies more in that area?

Answer
For commercial print agencies, there are modeling agency directories available in your local library, bookstore, online and on newsstands in NYC and L.A. While the directories also cover fashion agencies, you will need to look within them for a plus size or 10-20 division, or use one of the plus size agency lists in one of the books on plus size modeling, or online.  Many agencies now have websites that also detail submission instructions for new faces, what their requirements are for new models, and what divisions they have (such as fashion, commercial print/lifestyle, childrens, plus size, etc.)
You may want to try submitting your information to both commercial print and plus-size agents, as you may be able to work in both areas.
Good luck to you,
~Kitty