Many men are wondering if they can be in the modeling industry. The answer is yes. However, be warned, this is an industry that chews up and spits out the weak and frail. Like most of the fields in the entertainment industry, the modeling field is one that attracts many but only a few chosen ones make it. It is a highly lucrative business and the competition makes it hard for most to succeed. To even out the odds one may have to use the ability of a premier modeling agency so as to stay relevant and blossom in this industry. Choosing to be a freelancer in modeling is not the best option. The agents will go through all the dirty work that comes with securing assignments for the model, and he or she only concentrates on the modeling work and nothing else.
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One can sign with an agency with a dry call. This is where comp cards are sent to the agencies by the model, hoping to generate some interest. The comp card is like the business card for the model and features the most recently taken pictures of the model in his or her portfolio. Here the model has the option to talk to a photographer or simply make the comp card on the computer. A number of online companies can accept their photos too, and they make these cards for the model model agency at a fee. It is wise to join a good agency because they take care of these.
One can also attend one of the many model casting calls that the agents hold occasionally to fish for new and fresh modeling talent. Once the models have impressed the agencies, the chosen ones are signed up and the agents get them assignments for a commission. If the agency asks for commissions that exceed 10 to 20 percent of the assignment, then this is a sign of a scrupulous dealing and one should look for the next modeling agency.
One can boost their chance of their male modeling career by looking for these agencies in the big cities. Most of them will not have offices in the country and so moving to the modeling cities like New York or Los Angeles might aid. Although it might be a little expensive than it is back home, if someone is serious about making it in this industry, sacrifices and a lot of determination and hard work are crucial. If one posses these qualities and is confident enough to radiate the casting directors and the agencies, he or she can be guaranteed representation through a good modeling agency.
A good modeling agency is well versed in the industry and has your best interest in mind. They are there to guide your career and make money. They are busy people but should be providing you with honest feedback to enhance your career. Check their credentials as they should be reputable. One of my four agents is a SAG, AFTRA, EQUITY, AFM, and WGA franchised agency. In addition they are also Minority Business Enterprise certified.
An excellent agent knows if you are serious about the business just from judging how you respond to their advice. If they tell you to lose 15 pounds and you keep on eating they will stop sending you out on auditions. If they tell you to consider some acting classes and you don't they know you are not really serious about the business. If they tell you to cut your hair and you do they know that you are a winner!
Please also make a note that their exclusive talent sometimes will get priority over their non-exclusive talent. The reason is because the exclusive talent has probably been with the agency for years and they have several clients that request their services specifically. The exclusive talent also probably has listened to their agent and gotten more training on other areas to make themselves more marketable.
A great agency expects you to check in with them periodically. They sometimes won't tell you that to see what you'll do. You can check in to find out if they have any checks for you to pickup, if they need some more pictures, ask questions, or just to say hi. Again, this demonstrates whether or not if you are serious about the business. Responding back to them when they call about your availability for an audition in a timely matter is important. It shows them that they can count on you and you are reliable. You represent the agency when you go on an audition and they are serious about their reputation.
Last but not least, a good agency will keep you informed of upcoming seminars, and classes throughout the modeling community. They also should be communicating with you through Actors Access and have their own website. Most business is done via electronic submissions so this is a must.