Expert: Kitty Kavey - 12/29/2005

Question
    Hi Ms.Kitty;
     My name's Darrell Tippett I've been interested in being a commercial model for along time and have some questions I'd like to ask you about this business:

1.)My first question is since I've never done any modeling work before at all what are some beginning steps I can take to start on my path at making a career as a commercial model?

2.)In general is it harder for guys to get into commercial modeling than with women because it seems like i see more women than men usually in ads on magazines and things like that?

3.)Finially as far as pay is concerned usually how much would you get paid because as i understand it that can vary depending on I believe who hires you right?

So, Ms.Kitty if you would please e-mail me back. Thanks,Darrell Tippett

Answer
I suggest interviewing with agencies in your area.  They may require you to provide a modeling composite card before you begin, so you may need to look into that as well.  
There's a book available in your local library, bookstore or online that you may find helpful as well: How to Become a Successful Commercial Model: The Complete Commercial Modeling Handbook by Aaron R. Marcus.
He also has a newsletter and website: www.howtomodel.com
He's also a man, and I know he works a lot.  Of course, how much you work depends on many factors; where you live, how much your agent promotes you, your "look", etc.  You're correct about payment, it does depend on who you're doing the work for, and what part of the country you're in.  A print ad for a local restaurant in Oklahoma will probably not be any comparison to doing a print ad run nationally in major newspapers for a well-known restaurant chain.  There are quite a few people I know who earn a living doing commercial print modeling, although many of them also act as well.  Always an option, and often commercial print agencies are part of a larger talent agency that represent actors too.
Good luck to you, and happy holidays.
~Kitty