Expert: Kitty Kavey - 7/16/2006

Question
Dear Kitty Kavey,

I have considered being a model for some time now and I was wondering what the basic requirements were for male models.  I've seen a variety of types so I am hoping that there is a spot for someone like me. I am 19 yrs old. I have the exotic ethnic thing going because I am half Jamaican and half Chinese. At 5'9'' I know that I'm too short for runway but is there still a chance that I could do printwork?

sincerely Brandon

Answer
You could do commercial print, which is basically products and services other than beauty or fashion, and for which there is generally no height, size, or age requirements.  Many commercial print models do acting as well, and agencies that have acting divisions frequently have commercial print divisions as well.  You can use one of the modeling agency directories (from your local newsstand, library, bookstore or online) to locate the agents closest to you.  You will most likely need to get a modeling composite card, but certainly ask the agencies you are interested in what they want to see from new faces for consideration.  Sometimes they will accept snapshots, which is certainly a less expensive way to obtain representation before you invest in comp cards.
Good luck to you,
~Kitty