Ask Aaron
Article Archive
From Jessie, CA:
I am 35 years old. Am I too old to be a model?
Dear Jessie:
Absolutely not. The thing that most women don't realize is that at age 35, you are actually in "prime time" for commercial modeling. If you open any non - fashion magazine, you will see woman in ads portraying the mom, banker, lawyer, doctor, teacher, insurance salesperson etc... It would hard to believe someone who is 18 fitting those types of characters.
I am 35 years old. Am I too old to be a model?
Dear Jessie:
Absolutely not. The thing that most women don't realize is that at age 35, you are actually in "prime time" for commercial modeling. If you open any non - fashion magazine, you will see woman in ads portraying the mom, banker, lawyer, doctor, teacher, insurance salesperson etc... It would hard to believe someone who is 18 fitting those types of characters.
From Kim, PA:
I was told by an actor that I should put background actor on my resume instead of extra, because it sounds more professional, is that right?
Dear Kim:
I would not suggest listing background actor or extra on your resume. This does not show anyone that you have any acting skills. Just wait until you have a day-player or principal role to list on your resume.
I was told by an actor that I should put background actor on my resume instead of extra, because it sounds more professional, is that right?
Dear Kim:
I would not suggest listing background actor or extra on your resume. This does not show anyone that you have any acting skills. Just wait until you have a day-player or principal role to list on your resume.
From Angie, IL:
What are the best ways to find an agent?
Dear Angie:
There are a number of ways of finding agents. When people purchase my book from www.howtomodel.com, they also get a directory called the National SAG and AFTRA Directory. These are the 2 main unions for actors. There are about 30 offices throughout the U.S. If you call any office (the numbers are listed in the directory, or visit their web site) they will give you the list of signatory agents FREE. Those are the agents who have signed contracts with the union. These are good agents to contact.
Another advantage of purchasing my book from howtomodel.com, is that you will receive a great listing of over 140 agents and casting directors throughout the US absolutely FREE. There are many agents listed on the site that are strictly modeling agencies and not affiliated with the Unions. This is a great way to find wonderful local representation.
There is a publication called The Ross Report that lists all of the major agents in the L.A. and N.Y markets. Casting directors as well as shows being cast will be listed in the Ross Report.
You should also try going to some local theater and ask the actors after the performance, who are some of the agents in the area that you should contact.
You could call a few advertising agencies and ask the art and or creative director which agents they contact when they need models for jobs. You will find that certain names keep popping up. These are the people to contact.
On my site, www.howtomodel.com I have a link to a company that supplies names of agents (on labels) for New York and LA. They are called Pro-labels.
In my book and newsletter I devote entire sections on finding agents and marketing yourself.
What are the best ways to find an agent?
Dear Angie:
There are a number of ways of finding agents. When people purchase my book from www.howtomodel.com, they also get a directory called the National SAG and AFTRA Directory. These are the 2 main unions for actors. There are about 30 offices throughout the U.S. If you call any office (the numbers are listed in the directory, or visit their web site) they will give you the list of signatory agents FREE. Those are the agents who have signed contracts with the union. These are good agents to contact.
Another advantage of purchasing my book from howtomodel.com, is that you will receive a great listing of over 140 agents and casting directors throughout the US absolutely FREE. There are many agents listed on the site that are strictly modeling agencies and not affiliated with the Unions. This is a great way to find wonderful local representation.
There is a publication called The Ross Report that lists all of the major agents in the L.A. and N.Y markets. Casting directors as well as shows being cast will be listed in the Ross Report.
You should also try going to some local theater and ask the actors after the performance, who are some of the agents in the area that you should contact.
You could call a few advertising agencies and ask the art and or creative director which agents they contact when they need models for jobs. You will find that certain names keep popping up. These are the people to contact.
On my site, www.howtomodel.com I have a link to a company that supplies names of agents (on labels) for New York and LA. They are called Pro-labels.
In my book and newsletter I devote entire sections on finding agents and marketing yourself.
From Andy, NJ:
How Much Can A Model Make In A Day?
Dear Andy:
That is a tough question because it can vary so much. In New York City we generally earn $250 an hour. That means we could earn $2,000 for a full-day booking, which is an 8-hour day. In Washington, DC commercial models earn between $125 - $150 an hour. Commercial models living in Los Angeles generally earn $187.50 an hour. Because there is no modeling Union, there are no set fees that we must earn, and the fees vary so much from market to market. Most of the time models are hired on the average of 2 hours per session. Sometimes models are paid bonuses for jobs that run in high exposure formats. For instance, if a model's ad is placed on a billboard, poster, side of a bus, point of purchase (those cutout items in stores), on the internet, etc., we are generally paid bonuses. This happens because we could lose other bookings do to conflicts with other products or through overexposure in a market. If someone had a billboard ad for Pepsi, there is almost no chance that any other soft drink will hire that model because they worked for a competitor. A friend of mine earned $50,000 from having his face and hair on a hair coloring box. The ad ran for 3 years. I also know people who have earned less than $1,000 for the year as a model. The most important thing is that you love doing the work itself, regardless of the money you can earn.
How Much Can A Model Make In A Day?
Dear Andy:
That is a tough question because it can vary so much. In New York City we generally earn $250 an hour. That means we could earn $2,000 for a full-day booking, which is an 8-hour day. In Washington, DC commercial models earn between $125 - $150 an hour. Commercial models living in Los Angeles generally earn $187.50 an hour. Because there is no modeling Union, there are no set fees that we must earn, and the fees vary so much from market to market. Most of the time models are hired on the average of 2 hours per session. Sometimes models are paid bonuses for jobs that run in high exposure formats. For instance, if a model's ad is placed on a billboard, poster, side of a bus, point of purchase (those cutout items in stores), on the internet, etc., we are generally paid bonuses. This happens because we could lose other bookings do to conflicts with other products or through overexposure in a market. If someone had a billboard ad for Pepsi, there is almost no chance that any other soft drink will hire that model because they worked for a competitor. A friend of mine earned $50,000 from having his face and hair on a hair coloring box. The ad ran for 3 years. I also know people who have earned less than $1,000 for the year as a model. The most important thing is that you love doing the work itself, regardless of the money you can earn.
From Lee, FL:
I am a subscriber of your newsletter and I am seriously considering moving to Los Angeles to break into the commercials/film industry. I am over 30 but look very young. Should I tell agents my real age, or will this prevent me from getting representation. I would appreciate any advice you can give.
Dear Lee:
The funny thing about commercials is that generally, there is more work for people in their late 20's, 30's and 40's. Most of the commercial modeling and TV commercials involve moms, dads, doctors, real estate agents, etc... So, I would not be concerned about your age. Now for TV shows, the desired ages change. We are beginning to head out of an area where the majority of the pilots cast people in their late teens, early twenties. There seem to be more shows casting people older than that now.
As far as telling your agent your age, you absolutely should let your agent know. Your actual age does not matter; it is the age you look that matters.
I am a subscriber of your newsletter and I am seriously considering moving to Los Angeles to break into the commercials/film industry. I am over 30 but look very young. Should I tell agents my real age, or will this prevent me from getting representation. I would appreciate any advice you can give.
Dear Lee:
The funny thing about commercials is that generally, there is more work for people in their late 20's, 30's and 40's. Most of the commercial modeling and TV commercials involve moms, dads, doctors, real estate agents, etc... So, I would not be concerned about your age. Now for TV shows, the desired ages change. We are beginning to head out of an area where the majority of the pilots cast people in their late teens, early twenties. There seem to be more shows casting people older than that now.
As far as telling your agent your age, you absolutely should let your agent know. Your actual age does not matter; it is the age you look that matters.
From Jerry, MO:
I get the feeling that my agent has no interest in working with me. When I call, she seems to only want to get me off the phone as quickly as possible. Is it time to find a new agent?
Dear Jerry:
I would not pay any attention to the fact that the agent kind of blew you off on the phone. That is normal. They are very busy, and might have been right in the middle of having to make 3,000 phone calls to models for go-sees. Agents make their living on the phone. That is how they get work for the models and actors they represent. When their time is taken up with phone calls from their talent, who want to chit chat, or find out if there is anything happening for them, then there is less time for the agent to do her job.
If you want to have a stronger relationship with your agent, call him/her up and set up an appointment. Sit down with the agent and tell the agent that you haven't heard from him/her and wanted to know if there was something you can do to help get more work.
You might find out that the agent was out of your head shots or composite sheets, and therefore was not submitting you for jobs. Maybe your photos that are being submitted are not strong enough, and you need to get new photos taken. Maybe you are being submitted for the wrong types of jobs.
That exact situation happened to me. for many years I was being sent out regularly by an agent in New York. All of a sudden I hit a stretch of about 3 months where I was not hearing from the agent. I set up an appointment and the agent told me that she was told not to call me unless I either had a booking or had a request go-see. That is when the photographer or people from the ad agency specifically ask for a model to attend the go-see (audition). She said that neither of those situations occurred, so that is why she hadn't called. I told her there must have been some mistake because I never set up those conditions, and to please call me for any go-see that is appropriate for me. After that conversation, I started getting phone calls again.
I get the feeling that my agent has no interest in working with me. When I call, she seems to only want to get me off the phone as quickly as possible. Is it time to find a new agent?
Dear Jerry:
I would not pay any attention to the fact that the agent kind of blew you off on the phone. That is normal. They are very busy, and might have been right in the middle of having to make 3,000 phone calls to models for go-sees. Agents make their living on the phone. That is how they get work for the models and actors they represent. When their time is taken up with phone calls from their talent, who want to chit chat, or find out if there is anything happening for them, then there is less time for the agent to do her job.
If you want to have a stronger relationship with your agent, call him/her up and set up an appointment. Sit down with the agent and tell the agent that you haven't heard from him/her and wanted to know if there was something you can do to help get more work.
You might find out that the agent was out of your head shots or composite sheets, and therefore was not submitting you for jobs. Maybe your photos that are being submitted are not strong enough, and you need to get new photos taken. Maybe you are being submitted for the wrong types of jobs.
That exact situation happened to me. for many years I was being sent out regularly by an agent in New York. All of a sudden I hit a stretch of about 3 months where I was not hearing from the agent. I set up an appointment and the agent told me that she was told not to call me unless I either had a booking or had a request go-see. That is when the photographer or people from the ad agency specifically ask for a model to attend the go-see (audition). She said that neither of those situations occurred, so that is why she hadn't called. I told her there must have been some mistake because I never set up those conditions, and to please call me for any go-see that is appropriate for me. After that conversation, I started getting phone calls again.
From Jessie, TX:
What do I need to do to start a great agency?
Dear Jessie:
First, you have to absolutely love the acting and modeling industry. It is also necessary to really enjoy working with people involved in the industry. You will be spending your days on the phone and meeting with actors, models, photographers, art and creative directors, producers, directors and casting agents.
Your job will be to find and help promote new talent and models and develop strong relationships with the people in the industry who either directly or indirectly hire them. Helping your clients get auditions, jobs and paid are part of the job description as well.
Helping your clients put together strong head shots and composite sheets is a must. Creating a strong agency web site to help promote your talent is getting pretty standard these days.
Once you have great photos of your clients and strong marketing materials, then you have to hit the street and begin showing everyone in the industry why they should contact your agency when models and actors are needed. Set up appointments and talk with them to let them know how wonderful you and your talent are.
You also want to contact businesses that hire models and actors for trade shows and conventions. Perhaps contacting your local Chamber of Commerce would be helpful. Speak with companies that put on special event programming would also be helpful.
You will need to check with your local government to see if or what kind of license is needed to open up your agency. The law changes from state to state.
The most important thing is to have an honest relationship with your clients and the people who hire them. Stand up for your clients and treat everyone with respect. Be available for those who need your help emotionally. It can be very hard for people who really want to work in the industry and consistently get turned down after auditioning. It is also important that you set very clear agency policies with your talent and models. It is crucial that you stick with your policies and that you take a strong stand when they are broken or ignored.
What do I need to do to start a great agency?
Dear Jessie:
First, you have to absolutely love the acting and modeling industry. It is also necessary to really enjoy working with people involved in the industry. You will be spending your days on the phone and meeting with actors, models, photographers, art and creative directors, producers, directors and casting agents.
Your job will be to find and help promote new talent and models and develop strong relationships with the people in the industry who either directly or indirectly hire them. Helping your clients get auditions, jobs and paid are part of the job description as well.
Helping your clients put together strong head shots and composite sheets is a must. Creating a strong agency web site to help promote your talent is getting pretty standard these days.
Once you have great photos of your clients and strong marketing materials, then you have to hit the street and begin showing everyone in the industry why they should contact your agency when models and actors are needed. Set up appointments and talk with them to let them know how wonderful you and your talent are.
You also want to contact businesses that hire models and actors for trade shows and conventions. Perhaps contacting your local Chamber of Commerce would be helpful. Speak with companies that put on special event programming would also be helpful.
You will need to check with your local government to see if or what kind of license is needed to open up your agency. The law changes from state to state.
The most important thing is to have an honest relationship with your clients and the people who hire them. Stand up for your clients and treat everyone with respect. Be available for those who need your help emotionally. It can be very hard for people who really want to work in the industry and consistently get turned down after auditioning. It is also important that you set very clear agency policies with your talent and models. It is crucial that you stick with your policies and that you take a strong stand when they are broken or ignored.
From Susan, GA:
I signed my daughter with an agent about 1 year ago and so far we had one fashion show and it was a freebee. We signed an exclusive contract, so are we really stuck with agent or the year? Any suggestions?
Dear Susan:
First of all, I need to make it clear that I am not a lawyer, and can't give out legal advice. However, I am an actor and commercial model, and I currently work with 125 agents, so I can give you some non-legal suggestions.
It is important for you to keep in mind that agents make their living off of the percentages of the bookings their models and actor get. If your daughter is not getting much work, that means that your agent is not making any money either.
This is something you might want to try. Call and set up an appointment with your agent. Ask the agent if there is anything you can do to try and get more go-sees (the model's audition) and work for your daughter. Do not start blaming things on your agent. You might find that your daughter needs different photos. Maybe the agent stopped sending your daughter's pictures out because she ran out of them and didn't realize that she needed more.
If you are truly unhappy with the representation, and you have tried everything possible, but things still are very slow, then ask your agent if you can be released from the contract. I don't see why an agent would want to enforce a contract on someone who isn't getting any work. If the agent still says no, then show the contract to a lawyer. There are generally provisions in a contract that will allow people to end the agreement if one or both parties are not satisfied with the relationship.
Actually, before anyone signs a contract make sure you completely understand what you are signing. If needed, show the contract to any attorney. It does not have to be an entertainment specialist. This is true even if you are told that it is just a standard contract.
I signed my daughter with an agent about 1 year ago and so far we had one fashion show and it was a freebee. We signed an exclusive contract, so are we really stuck with agent or the year? Any suggestions?
Dear Susan:
First of all, I need to make it clear that I am not a lawyer, and can't give out legal advice. However, I am an actor and commercial model, and I currently work with 125 agents, so I can give you some non-legal suggestions.
It is important for you to keep in mind that agents make their living off of the percentages of the bookings their models and actor get. If your daughter is not getting much work, that means that your agent is not making any money either.
This is something you might want to try. Call and set up an appointment with your agent. Ask the agent if there is anything you can do to try and get more go-sees (the model's audition) and work for your daughter. Do not start blaming things on your agent. You might find that your daughter needs different photos. Maybe the agent stopped sending your daughter's pictures out because she ran out of them and didn't realize that she needed more.
If you are truly unhappy with the representation, and you have tried everything possible, but things still are very slow, then ask your agent if you can be released from the contract. I don't see why an agent would want to enforce a contract on someone who isn't getting any work. If the agent still says no, then show the contract to a lawyer. There are generally provisions in a contract that will allow people to end the agreement if one or both parties are not satisfied with the relationship.
Actually, before anyone signs a contract make sure you completely understand what you are signing. If needed, show the contract to any attorney. It does not have to be an entertainment specialist. This is true even if you are told that it is just a standard contract.
From Denny, GA:
Can I be a single mom and work as a model?
Dear Denny:
It is very hard being a single mom, no matter what type of employment you have. The nice thing with modeling is that you generally aren't away all day for go-sees or bookings. Quite often jobs only last an hour or two.
The most important thing for you is to have a backup for the times when you are supposed to pick up your children, or when they are home etc... If you can find someone that is responsible and loves your child, then you can pursue anything you desire.
Can I be a single mom and work as a model?
Dear Denny:
It is very hard being a single mom, no matter what type of employment you have. The nice thing with modeling is that you generally aren't away all day for go-sees or bookings. Quite often jobs only last an hour or two.
The most important thing for you is to have a backup for the times when you are supposed to pick up your children, or when they are home etc... If you can find someone that is responsible and loves your child, then you can pursue anything you desire.
From Lydia, MA:
I've had a few agencies request a "reel". This may sound like a stupid question, but what do they mean by reel?
Dear Lydia:
That is not a stupid question. A "reel" is a videotape filled with excerpts of your acting work. It can have excerpts from your performances such as: TV shows, commercials, feature or training films or even theater performances.
I've had a few agencies request a "reel". This may sound like a stupid question, but what do they mean by reel?
Dear Lydia:
That is not a stupid question. A "reel" is a videotape filled with excerpts of your acting work. It can have excerpts from your performances such as: TV shows, commercials, feature or training films or even theater performances.
From Jessica, FL:
Can you give me some advice on how I can join AFTRA?
Dear Jessica:
AFTRA is the easiest union to join because all you have to do is contact your local AFTRA office and pay an initiation fee. It is not based on work experience.
Can you give me some advice on how I can join AFTRA?
Dear Jessica:
AFTRA is the easiest union to join because all you have to do is contact your local AFTRA office and pay an initiation fee. It is not based on work experience.
From Jessica, FL:
Can you give me some advice on how I can join AFTRA?
Dear Jessica:
AFTRA is the easiest union to join because all you have to do is contact your local AFTRA office and pay an initiation fee. It is not based on work experience.
Can you give me some advice on how I can join AFTRA?
Dear Jessica:
AFTRA is the easiest union to join because all you have to do is contact your local AFTRA office and pay an initiation fee. It is not based on work experience.
From Jill, FL:
Is it possible to get work if you are only 13?
Dear Jill:
There are plenty of 13 year olds who model. Look at any magazine that is geared for teens, and you will see quite a few ads with teenagers. Keep in mind, that as you get older, there will be more and more work available.
Is it possible to get work if you are only 13?
Dear Jill:
There are plenty of 13 year olds who model. Look at any magazine that is geared for teens, and you will see quite a few ads with teenagers. Keep in mind, that as you get older, there will be more and more work available.
From Ariel, PA:
What exactly does a manager do for an actor?
Dear Ariel:
A manager is someone who helps guide and build a career as opposed to an agent who strictly helps the talent get work and negotiates fees for bookings.
What exactly does a manager do for an actor?
Dear Ariel:
A manager is someone who helps guide and build a career as opposed to an agent who strictly helps the talent get work and negotiates fees for bookings.
From Bryan, GA:
I am a 25 year old actor/model, and have been having problems getting an agent. Is it necessary for me to book modeling jobs through an agency, or can I try and find photographers on my own?
Dear Bryan:
You can absolutely get bookings directly from a commercial photographer - without an agent. However, you do have to be careful, because in the modeling industry, unlike acting, we do not have the backing of unions like SAG and AFTRA. Since there are no set rules that people have to follow, agents will negotiate booking fees and additional charges for billboards, posters and other high exposure formats. Make sure you know how much you should be earning before accepting commercial modeling bookings on your own. You can learn more about "high exposure formats" from the marketing section of my book.
I am a 25 year old actor/model, and have been having problems getting an agent. Is it necessary for me to book modeling jobs through an agency, or can I try and find photographers on my own?
Dear Bryan:
You can absolutely get bookings directly from a commercial photographer - without an agent. However, you do have to be careful, because in the modeling industry, unlike acting, we do not have the backing of unions like SAG and AFTRA. Since there are no set rules that people have to follow, agents will negotiate booking fees and additional charges for billboards, posters and other high exposure formats. Make sure you know how much you should be earning before accepting commercial modeling bookings on your own. You can learn more about "high exposure formats" from the marketing section of my book.
From Lynn, LA:
How can I find a list of photographers that are testing? I have tried to call schools and colleges but they would not give me any student's phone numbers. Your book it's great by the way!!!
Dear Lynn:
Thanks for the kind words about my book. There are two options for you to find testing photographers. Schools will not just give out names, but if you set up an appointment with the photography instructor and show him/her the ideas you have, then the instructor can ask the students if they are interested. You might want to contact a few camera stores and see if you can put up a flyer about your testing desires. You could even try calling a few photographers to see if they have any assistants interested in testing.
How can I find a list of photographers that are testing? I have tried to call schools and colleges but they would not give me any student's phone numbers. Your book it's great by the way!!!
Dear Lynn:
Thanks for the kind words about my book. There are two options for you to find testing photographers. Schools will not just give out names, but if you set up an appointment with the photography instructor and show him/her the ideas you have, then the instructor can ask the students if they are interested. You might want to contact a few camera stores and see if you can put up a flyer about your testing desires. You could even try calling a few photographers to see if they have any assistants interested in testing.
From Jeff, NJ:
Should I put my commercial modeling credits on my resume?
Dear Jeff:
No. Your acting resume should only have acting information. People still have this idea that models can't act, so I would not list anything that has to do with modeling on your acting resume.
Should I put my commercial modeling credits on my resume?
Dear Jeff:
No. Your acting resume should only have acting information. People still have this idea that models can't act, so I would not list anything that has to do with modeling on your acting resume.
From Sherry, AZ:
I am a 17 year old model and I was asked to do 2 jobs. One TFP and one paid. Will I need a model release form? If so, where can I get one?
Dear Sherry:
Your TFP (Trade for Print) can be a very helpful way to get photos taken free. Keep in mind that a model release form is so important that I have a copy of one in my book. When you read the book, you will also learn how to properly fill out the form and make the necessary changes in order to protect yourself. It is the photographer's responsibility to give you the model release form. Without you signing this document, there could be some legal issues with your image being used.
I am a 17 year old model and I was asked to do 2 jobs. One TFP and one paid. Will I need a model release form? If so, where can I get one?
Dear Sherry:
Your TFP (Trade for Print) can be a very helpful way to get photos taken free. Keep in mind that a model release form is so important that I have a copy of one in my book. When you read the book, you will also learn how to properly fill out the form and make the necessary changes in order to protect yourself. It is the photographer's responsibility to give you the model release form. Without you signing this document, there could be some legal issues with your image being used.
From Karen, FL:
I will be auditioning for a film in the near future. Should I bring my composite sheet along with a head shot to the audition?
Dear Karen:
I would not bring a comp card. People will associate you with being a model. Unfortunately, many people still have this crazy idea that models can't act. The fact is that many commercial models are very talented actors.
I will be auditioning for a film in the near future. Should I bring my composite sheet along with a head shot to the audition?
Dear Karen:
I would not bring a comp card. People will associate you with being a model. Unfortunately, many people still have this crazy idea that models can't act. The fact is that many commercial models are very talented actors.
From Lynn, LA:
How can I find a list of photographers that are testing? I have tried to call schools and colleges but they would not give me any student's phone numbers. Your book it's great by the way!!!
Dear Lynn::
Thanks for the kind words about my book. There are two options for you to find testing photographers. Schools will not just give out names, but if you set up an appointment with the photography instructor and show him/her the ideas you have, then the instructor can ask the students if they are interested. You might want to contact a few camera stores and see if you can put up a flyer about your testing desires. You could even try calling a few photographers to see if they have any assistants interested in testing.
How can I find a list of photographers that are testing? I have tried to call schools and colleges but they would not give me any student's phone numbers. Your book it's great by the way!!!
Dear Lynn::
Thanks for the kind words about my book. There are two options for you to find testing photographers. Schools will not just give out names, but if you set up an appointment with the photography instructor and show him/her the ideas you have, then the instructor can ask the students if they are interested. You might want to contact a few camera stores and see if you can put up a flyer about your testing desires. You could even try calling a few photographers to see if they have any assistants interested in testing.
From Ava, Nevada:
I am trying to do fashion and runway modeling. I am 5'9", 34-24-34. I am planning on going to New York soon to attend as many open calls as possible. Do you have any suggestions?
Dear Ava:
I think it might be better for you to send some snapshots of yourself to as many New York agencies as possible before going to New York. Let the agents know when you will be arriving, and that you would like to meet with them. You should also create some commercial shots and send them to commercial agents. That way you will be exposed to many more agencies. My book will not only teach you how to create the perfect photos, but also how to write a great cover letter and find the agents.
I am trying to do fashion and runway modeling. I am 5'9", 34-24-34. I am planning on going to New York soon to attend as many open calls as possible. Do you have any suggestions?
Dear Ava:
I think it might be better for you to send some snapshots of yourself to as many New York agencies as possible before going to New York. Let the agents know when you will be arriving, and that you would like to meet with them. You should also create some commercial shots and send them to commercial agents. That way you will be exposed to many more agencies. My book will not only teach you how to create the perfect photos, but also how to write a great cover letter and find the agents.
From Myra, San Francisco:
I have a question about finding representation. Most agencies ask that you submit your resume and headshot with a cover letter attached. I've only written cover letters when applying for regular employment, which are usually very detailed and extensive.
What is the standard format and content for a cover letter to an agency?
Dear Myra:
In my book, How to Become a Successful Commercial Model, I spell out exactly how to create a good cover letter. You might want to get a copy of it from my site, www.howtomodel.com. Basically, you want it short and to the point. Tell them you are a "fresh face" in the market, and let them know which categories would be best suited for you (mom, doctor, student etc.). I also like having my head shot on the top of the stationary, so they can see my face while reading the letter.
I have a question about finding representation. Most agencies ask that you submit your resume and headshot with a cover letter attached. I've only written cover letters when applying for regular employment, which are usually very detailed and extensive.
What is the standard format and content for a cover letter to an agency?
Dear Myra:
In my book, How to Become a Successful Commercial Model, I spell out exactly how to create a good cover letter. You might want to get a copy of it from my site, www.howtomodel.com. Basically, you want it short and to the point. Tell them you are a "fresh face" in the market, and let them know which categories would be best suited for you (mom, doctor, student etc.). I also like having my head shot on the top of the stationary, so they can see my face while reading the letter.
From Karl, Denver:
I have been booking a lot of print jobs in the past few months. I noticed that a few of them were shot over 90 days ago, and I have not been paid. I called the agent and they blamed it on the client not paying. I'm confused as to how I go about this. Do I contact the better business bureau? Is it the agents fault? I wonder if it's even worth pursuing any legal action since the pay is under 500 dollars. Is it best just to let it slide?
Dear Karl:
The first thing you want to do is call the agent. Tell her how you both should have been paid by now. If the agent is having some doubts of ever receiving a check, then let the agent know that you are going to look into going to Small Claims Court. That would be another option for you.
I have been booking a lot of print jobs in the past few months. I noticed that a few of them were shot over 90 days ago, and I have not been paid. I called the agent and they blamed it on the client not paying. I'm confused as to how I go about this. Do I contact the better business bureau? Is it the agents fault? I wonder if it's even worth pursuing any legal action since the pay is under 500 dollars. Is it best just to let it slide?
Dear Karl:
The first thing you want to do is call the agent. Tell her how you both should have been paid by now. If the agent is having some doubts of ever receiving a check, then let the agent know that you are going to look into going to Small Claims Court. That would be another option for you.
From Haley, Philadelphia:
Is it appropriate to email a head shot & resume rather than mail it snail mail if no preference is specified?
Dear Haley:
You can always try e-mailing your information, but you never know what will happen with an unsolicited e-mail. I always send a head shot and resume through the US mail. Agents will definitely look at your head shot and if they have it in their hands, it can be placed it in their files.
Is it appropriate to email a head shot & resume rather than mail it snail mail if no preference is specified?
Dear Haley:
You can always try e-mailing your information, but you never know what will happen with an unsolicited e-mail. I always send a head shot and resume through the US mail. Agents will definitely look at your head shot and if they have it in their hands, it can be placed it in their files.
From James, WI:
I am interested in being a model and have two fairly small tattoos one on each arm. Will this hurt my chances at modeling?
Dear James:
It could be a problem for certain jobs. If the tattoos are on your upper arm, and not visible when wearing a shirt, then you will probably be fine for most jobs. I do not get many bookings with my upper arm exposed.
I am interested in being a model and have two fairly small tattoos one on each arm. Will this hurt my chances at modeling?
Dear James:
It could be a problem for certain jobs. If the tattoos are on your upper arm, and not visible when wearing a shirt, then you will probably be fine for most jobs. I do not get many bookings with my upper arm exposed.
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OneModelPlace.com™ and its affiliated sites, are owned, operated, maintained and hosted by TvTaxi, Inc.
Originally Created by and Software © 1996-2009 Stuart Burden.