Tags: Agencies | Become a Model | Modeling Agents

Anyone serious about a career in modeling should be serious about obtaining the services of a professional modeling agent. Exactly what does a modeling agent do? They find models work. Modeling agents negotiate job contracts and serve as employment agents, connecting models with paying clients that represent companies and products. Typical clients a modeling agent might have would be clothing companies, make-up manufacturers, retail stores and catalog companies.

Modeling agents can work for an agency or they might work independently. There are also modeling agents that specialize in specific areas of modeling such as runway, film, children or plus-size.

Modeling agents that work at agencies can earn a commission on a model?s pay or they can work on salary. Independent modeling agents almost always work on commission. The commissions for both are generally between 15 and 30 percent of the model?s salary for a particular job. If a modeling agent asks for money from a model prior to the actual job (up front payment), it is a bad sign. Legitimate modeling agents get paid after they find paying work for their models, not before. Research your potential modeling agent before signing any contracts. Talk to other models and contact the Better Business Bureau in your area to see if there are any complaints against the agent before you sign on.

Models can?t get work without modeling agents. Modeling agents can?t earn any money without models. The relationship is a two-way affair with give and take necessary on the part of both. The agent will expect you to know what type of modeling career you are seeking and will ask questions to find out more about you. You may be instructed to take training or classes in order to be more fully prepared. When you look good, your agent looks good too.

Ask potential agents any questions you might have up front. Expect detailed explanations on how the agent operates, how the commission fees work and anything else you are unclear about. You should be able to state what types of modeling jobs are unacceptable to you without negotiation. A good modeling agent will not hesitate to answer any and all questions you may have. If they can?t, they are probably not the right modeling agent for you.