Overview
A modeling agent guides a teen model's career from the first head shot to her final walk on the runway. Responsible for presenting teen models to advertising agencies and fashion houses for work, a modeling agent is a critical business partner in the success of a teen model's career. If you are thinking about becoming the next John Casablancas or Eileen Ford here are a few steps to start your journey as a modeling agent for a teen model.
Step 1
Develop a keen ability to discover new teen models. The modeling industry is competitive and fast-paced. In fact, a typical modeling agent will view thousands of photos every week. A successful teen agent must recruit and develop fresh new faces to satisfy ambitious fashion editors and deadline-driven advertising agencies.
Step 2
Train under an established teen modeling agent. A seasoned agent will help you gain necessary experience in the modeling industry. As an agent's assistant, you will learn how to negotiate contacts, evaluate the billing potential of models and provide training for new agency signees. After a few years as an apprentice to a modeling agent, you will be well equipped to start your own teen modeling agency or apply for executive positions within an established agency.
Step 3
Build your Rolodex of fashion industry contacts. Attend model competitions and casting calls as a member of IMTA (the International Modeling and Talent Association). Attend fashion events to meet aspiring models, make-up artists, photographers and fashion designers. A modeling agent for teen models must circulate regularly among industry insiders to build his personal brand within the teen modeling niche and search for new talent.
Step 4
Hold casting and modeling calls. Each week modeling agents participate in three types of calls: dry calls, walk-ins and open calls. When a model sends an unsolicited picture or resume to an agency, this is considered a dry call. A walk-in appointment occurs when a model calls an agency to request a meeting with a booker or model agent. An open call occurs once a week, on a specific day, and is the most popular method to ensure that a teen model gets a face-to-face meeting with an agent.
Step 5
Contact advertising agencies and fashion designers for leads beyond fashion week. As a modeling agent for teens, you'll receive a commission, between 15 to 33 percent of the model's salary, for each freelance modeling assignment. If you only book teen models for fashion week, you will limit your earning potential. It is imperative for any teen modeling agent to cold call clients and attends lunch meetings with ad agency executives and photographers to find jobs for their teen model roster.
TIPS AND WARNINGS
- TIP : Knowledge of what types of models fashion designers book regularly and the ability to find this season's "it model" is crucial to your success as a model agent for teens.
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