Expert: Kitty Kavey - 11/8/2006

Question
Hi Kitty, i am only 19 and have been wanting to model pretty much all my life. Now when searching, i have just found place who want me to pay them first. I have been told there are agents out there who aren't that way, and that i can get jipped if i don't pay attention. How and where would i find these places or agents if there are any out there?  

Answer
Depending on where you are, and what type of modeling you are looking to do, you can either use the NYC top ten list of fashion agencies:
http://models.com/model_culture/top10agencies/women/10-6.html
or for commercial print agencies you can use the Ross Reports (www.rossreports.com) or available on newsstands and bookstores in NYC and LA.  If you are located outside of NYC or LA and looking for commercial print agencies, check the Screen Actors Guild list of franchised agencies (www.SAG.org under Resources, Agent Information) Those agencies marked FS (full-service) are those who represent commercial print models in addition to actors.
For other types of modeling, you'll have to check with models who work in that part of the industry, and see if they can recommend a few agencies to you, or even give you a referral.  No legitimate licensed agency will charge you money up front or should be running any conflict of interest businesses such as schools, photography studios, printers, etc.  In states where there is strong licensing, they are not even allowed to recommend a particular service.  You can check with your state's licensing and business regulation board to find out exactly what the laws are, and nearly every state government is online with that information.
Good luck to you,
~Kitty