Expert: Kitty Kavey - 9/28/2004

Question
is it as hard for guys as it is for girls to get scammed? i've always wanted to get a gig in commericial modeling, but i never knew how to go about it. where do i go first?

Answer
I don't think it is more difficult for either sex to get scammed, just that there are perhaps more females wanting to "be models" than guys who wish to pursue that.  You should get a couple of photos together; at least a face shot and full body shot.  They should be professional-looking, as you might see in a magazine, not a family album--although if a friend or family member is great at picture-taking, you can avoid hiring a costly photographer.  You could then make copies of the photos, and send them along with a cover letter to the agencies closest to you.  Modeling agency directories can be purchased from your local bookstore or online, or possibly obtained from your local library.  If an agency is interested in your look, they will contact you.  Some commercial agencies require you to have a modeling composite card before they will consider you, but many understand if you are a new face, you may not want to invest money in putting together and printing a comp card prior to obtaining agency representation (which can be quite expensive).  Once you've signed with an agency, it is their job to get you work opportunities.  For any work you book through them, you would pay the agency a percentage (usually between 10-20%).  It is illegal in many places to pay an agency to find you work, or if they are earning money in ways other than helping you find modeling work, such as they have modeling classes, or tell you to use a specific photographer, printer, etc.  They should only be earning money off of work that they get you.  Depending on where you are, there may be strict laws for licensed talent agencies to follow.  You can check with your state to learn what the laws are, and make sure any agency you contact is properly licensed and law-abiding.  Once you know what the laws are in your area, it's easier to recognize and avoid any potential scams.  There are also many good books written on the subject of commercial modeling, also available in your local library or bookstore, some of which contain examples of good photos, sample cover letters, sample composite cards and sometimes agency directories as well.
Good luck to you,
~Kitty