Careers: Acting, Performing, Directing/Comp Card Question.

Advertisement

Expert: - 8/29/2007


Question
I am currently trying to decide whether I should sign with a local agency. They seem very legitimate. They asked for no money upfront, they train all their models for free. The only thing I'm kinda skeptical about is the comp card. The agency offered me the 12 month exclusive contract today. There was a back sheet that said the only thing I had to pay for was my comp card/headshots, which cost $650.
Is this legit, or should I start looking for another agency?

Thanks!

Answer
It is not required nor necessary for a model to get training, and generally it would be a model management company or school that would offer such a service, rather than an agency.  Check the laws in your state, there are places where it is illegal for a model or talent agency to offer other conflict-of-interest services such as classes, photography, printing, etc.  What happens if you already have your own comp cards, or wanted to choose your own photographers/printer to get them made?  If that's not okay with them, I would advise you to look elsewhere for legitimate representation.  
Good luck to you,
~Kitty

Careers: Acting, Performing, Directing

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Kitty Kavey

Expertise

I can answer questions from those looking to get into the fashion or commercial modeling industry. Specifically, the requirements, what is needed, how to find an agent, what they look for, how to avoid scams, the difference between what a commercial model does, and a fashion model, would travel/relocation be required, what is on a comp card and in your portfolio.

Experience

Both my acting and modeling resume/portfolio is available online on my website. I am a member of the Screen Actors Guild, and also have available my actor's demo reel and voice-over demo online. I founded both the Florida-Models.com and Florida-Actors.com websites, which provide free modeling and acting info to the public. I have moved into directing, producing and screenwriting - and have won awards for my writing. I have worked in the industry as both a model and actress in Florida, New York City and Los Angeles until October 2007. I now reside in Europe.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.