Expert: Kitty Kavey - 2/11/2004

Question
hey! i have a question.  i've been  waiting this summer or i should say all year, for a model call or something to come to my area, but none have so far.  im wondering if i should just approach someone myself instead of them coming to me.  like go to an agency.  the only thing is, is that im afraid my mom won;t let me, or i dont know how to approach her and ask her.  i really want to try the whole modeling thing though! help. thanx!

Answer
One thing all legitimate agencies look for is parental consent.  In fashion modeling in particular travel to Europe, Asia and other exotic places is a routine part of the job.  There can be months spent away from your home base.  Commercial modeling is usually done close to home, but anyone under the legal age must have a parent sign for them on documents and legal papers.  Also, I do not recommend the "model searches".  They often charge fees for training, seminars, photos or websites, which are not necessary to get representation.  All of the agencies these searches claim to represent will take your information for free, and most have open calls where you can visit them in person.  You can certainly call each agency you are interested in, and confirm that you meet their criteria for new models before you send them your information or plan a trip to visit them.
Good luck to you,
~Kitty