I am an aspiring model but I dont have professional pics of myself. How could I approach a modeling agency?

Question

I am 5'10", of model propertions, and am often told I should try my hand at modeling. I know I have the look and the desire but I dont have the funds to get professional pictures taken of me. I went to an open call at Elite recently and every girl there had either a portfolio or a comp card. I often hear of agencies who will scout models then photograph them and give them the early tools they need to suceed. How do I get such an agecy to look at me and aside from taking in professional pictures, is there any other way to get other modeling agencies to take a look at me? I'd appreciate any advice or leads anyone might have on this subject!

Answer 1

I have heard a lot of bad thing about SOME (not all) modelling agencies and how they make you pay for photos and photo sessions before they take you on then never give you any work. Always check with the local Better Business Bureau.

I think a better starting place before you go to agencies is if you have a friend who is reasonable with a camera (do not have to be a professional or even that good just okay) Just take 100 photos of yourself in different poses, clothing and backgrounds then pick out 10-20 nice photos. You can then use this as a portfolio, and even better instead of printing them which cost you money every time, host them on a website and get some business cards print with the website address on and just hand these out instead. This is a far cheaper way of doing it and with no RISK. You should never have to pay to get a job if you do there is a high chance it is a scam.

However if you would like a personal portfolio site please contact me and I will set you on up for free. I can design you a fully personalised flash website with as much or little information and then host it for you. This site can contain a gallery of your photos, personal information, list of work, contact details, etc or if you prefer just a couple of photos and nothing else. It can be password protected and all images will be protected as is humanly possible, or the photos can be available to download.


Examples of work can be provided on request. Just message me here if you want, I am a professional website designer but have lots of free time (and enough money) so I am currently doing free sites for small bands, small artist etc, basically anyone who could not afford them otherwise. I have my own hosting server so can offer hosting servers or you can host the site yourselves. No images sent to me will be used for anything other than your site and I will not give anyone your detail or link to the site. You will have complete control and the site can be removed or changed at any time. This is not a scam and I will design a site for FREE, I do not need the money, and enjoy working. If you do want it message me you can tell me what you want and how you want it done and I will help.

Answer 2

As a past professional wedding/portrait photographer ... I highly suggest speaking with a modeling agency if you truly desire modeling as a career. If you just want some fun pics, any good photographer will do. Any and nearly all professional photographers have the ability to improve any photo. They can make you look like a Goddess or as normal as any other kid on the block. Modeling is a cut-throat industry and it isn't for everyone. Beauty can take one in a variety of directions. Be true to yourself. Are you sure that this is what you really want for your future? My daughter is a smart, beautiful young lady (14) - but I would rather she chose a college degree over a modeling 'career'. Just my humble opinion! The Ol' Sasquatch Ü

Answer 3

I suggest you should start to develop your portfolio 1st. not having one is like going to an interview and u don't have a resume. U have 2keep in mind that agencies are very brutal bcuz they have a 'i dont have time to waste' attitude so if you go to casting calls and go-sees without a portfolio u may jus end up getting the door slammed in your face.
The only thing I could tell you is be determined. not just going to open calls but how about u schedule to meet with the agency & basically storm in their to prove yourself. Not many agencies want a girl from scratch. so try caqsting calls or u kno what... try america's next top model. that's what you're looking for

Answer 4

Check in the paper. There are often ads looking for extras and models. But be verrry careful. There are some shady people out there! Other than that, get a portfolio together. There are also modeling agencies that will take you on.

And for the record. Models come in ALL shapes and sizes. You'll be getting all kinds of replies from those "expert" models. Lol!!!!

Answer 5

Agencies that offer to do your headshots and provide other services not in the description of a typical agency are usually rip-offs. You might get a profile on a website or something similar and not hear from them again while they disappear with your money. The best way is to contact reputable agencies with your own headshots and portfolio if you have one.

Answer 6

FIRST GET A PORFOLIO. EVERY MODEL NEEDS A PORFOLIO. YOU CAN GET YOUR FRIENDS TO TAKE SOME PICTURES OF YOU OR YOU CAN GET IT PROFFESIONALY DONE. THEN TRY FINDING SOME AGENCIES IN YOUR AREA, YOU CAN GO TO YAHOO LOCAL AND TYPE IN "MODELING AGENCIES" SOME SHOULD POP UP. GET AN ITERVIEW WITH THEM. YOU CAN ALSO ATTEND OPEN CASTING CALLS. USUALLY SCOUTS MAY COME TO YOUR AREA LOOKING FOR TALENT. YOU CAN ALSO GET A ONLINE PORFOLIO. SOME ARE FREE!
TRY THESE-
www.starsearchcasting.com
www.model.com
www.oneplacemodel.com
www.instantcast.com
www.talentrock.com

GOOD LUCK IN YOUR FUTURE MODELING CAREER! ^_^

Answer 7

This may sound silly, but have you tried to apply to the show "America's Next Top Model"? If you are happy with your appearance, and have good self esteem, make a video of yourself and send it in.

You never know :)

Answer 8

If you live in USA Go and sign up for free to be the next MsUSAonline, the public will vote for you and you win many exposure opportunities (to be in UNBLEND magazine, photo shoot,etc.)

Answer 9

Sorry...you need to have head shots made and start a portfolio.

Answer 10

Okay this is simple: write a RESUME telling them that you love making yourself puck 24/7, that your breast finish growing at age 2 , your face is full of silicone and you laugh like you had a vibrator stuck up your butt. I hope i answer your question