Models need help navigating international catwalks, complicated contracts, and complex poses. One of the most important first steps to a successful modelling career is to sign with a really great agent. They’ll offer advice and experience, and they will hopefully help get you work. So how do you get signed with a modelling agent? Read on.
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A modelling agency will represent you and their other models to the wider working world. They have contacts in the fashion industry, with brands, and in the corporate sector, and they match models to the modelling jobs coming in. They negotiate fees and contracts, look after travel and accommodation, and generally promote the interests of their signed models.
Sounds good, right? Yes, but they don’t do it for free. Agencies will take a cut of what you earn. Some models don’t have an agent and work as freelancers, but most do have an agent because they’re far more likely to get work that way. While your agent is bashing the phones trying to secure you jobs, you can spend that time concentrating on the work itself.
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To get a great agent, you need to do some research. Kick things off by taking a deep dive into the models whose work you’d like to emulate. Who are their agents? How did they get signed or scouted? What do they have to say about the agency they work with? Reputation really matters – read online reviews and check out the agency’s websites and social channels.
Think about where you want to work and in what area. There are lots of regional modelling agencies – see our guides to Adelaide, Perth, and Brisbane – but a lot of the high-end work goes through the bigger agencies in Melbourne and Sydney.
There are many different styles of modelling, and there are agencies that specialise in certain niches. Are you suited to commercial modelling, catalogue modelling, or working in high fashion? Do you have muscles all round the shop? Maybe fitness modelling is for you. There are agencies for children, plus-size models, and even models who work just with their hands, feet, or teeth. Identify your modelling niche and then pick the ideal agency for your skill set.
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Having a well-done portfolio is an essential part of being a model. This is one of the things an agent will be able to help with, but until then, it’s up to you.
A model portfolio is a visual CV of 10 to 20 pictures showing you at your very best. Portfolio photos should ideally be taken by a professional photographer and include a headshot, a full-length picture, and various poses. Again, think about what kind of modelling work you’d like to do and what style you are suited to. You may want to keep your options open at this stage to showcase your versatility to an agent.
Your portfolio should be available both digitally and physically (even if just as a comp card) so you can hand a copy to those with the power to hire you. At this stage of your career, no one is expecting amazing flashy photos, but the fact you’ve thought about it will elevate your pitch.
You can also use these photos to be your own agent on social media. Hashtag your portfolio with #scoutme and tag the agencies or brands you want to be seen by. It might just work!
How to Make a Model Portfolio 
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If you think you’re ready to approach a modelling agency, it’s important to do it well, because you’ll only get one go at making a great first impression. Look at their website and see how they accept submissions. Some agencies will have open calls. Most agencies accept applications online, but it’s always a good idea to give your favourite agency a call to check their preferred process.
If you are invited to meet an agent or scout, be polite and do not be late. This is your first chance to show a potential agent what they’d be dealing with if they sign you. Make sure you have your portfolio with you. Wear minimal makeup and dress simply but in clothes that flatter your figure. They might ask you to try on different outfits, so make sure your undies aren’t too embarrassing!
Remember, you’re not just a mute clothes horse. Agents will want to chat to you too. Personality, passion, and professionalism really matter in this industry. People will want to work with models who are nice, polite, and work hard – people like you!
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You’re not the only one being checked out here. You have the power to say no. Take some time to talk to the agents and scouts. If you sign with them, you’ll be in contact with the office a lot, so you want to get on with them.
Before you sign with an agency, it’s important to ask some key questions regarding pay and conditions:
- Ask for a copy of your contract and read it.
- Check that the agency pays for any travel.
- Ask the percentage the agency takes and how long it takes for you to get paid for each job you do.
It’s your money, so make sure you know where it’s going.
When a model/agent relationship works well, there’s a lot of trust involved. You know they’ve got your back and are working in your best interests. If you hear any internal warning bells, walk away and don’t sign. There will be plenty more agents keen to sign you.
Be patient and persistent. Models have to get used to handling rejection, but hard work and focus will win out eventually, with or without an agent.
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