Agencies - Do you have potential?

An agency will represent and promote you as a model. It will be their role to sell you to the modelling market.

They'll find you work and in return you pay them a commission, usually a percentage of your modelling fee. But watch out for scam agencies. I strongly advise girls never to pay to join an agency or get involved with agencies doing in-house photography or modelling classes. Take it from me, they're a complete waste of your time and money. If you have potential, your career will find its own path and agencies will be tripping over each other to use you!

There are two ways to approach to agencies.

Firstly, you can send in your photos with a letter detailing your profile (height, bust/chest, waist and hip, age, hair, eye colour and dress/shoe sizes) and asking whether your style suits the agency. Remember to enclose a stamped adressed envelope or you might not get a reply.

Secondly you can approach agencies in person to find out what kind of models they cater for and what time of year they go looking for 'new faces'. Visit the agency and show your photos in person - a good agency will tell you there and then if you're suitable.

If you're refused by several agencies in a row, then you'd be better off re-thinking your ambitions. Agencies are run by professionals who know the modelling world inside out, so take them at their word. Try not to be too disappointed!