Modeling agencies in NYC?

Question

Can anybody out there name me big model agencies in NYC and their websites? Thanks.

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 in teh US or Trading Standards in the Uk or Similar organisation elsewhere.

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.

Depending how old you are I may require parents permission before i will do any work.

Answer 2

Modeling is not like a regular job, so anyone who tells you that you don't have to pay out any money to model is incorrect.

1. You need two or three decent snapshots to submit to agencies. A headshot and a body shot, with at least one smiling, very little to no makeup, with clothing that shows your shape off. These do not need to be professional photos, so having a friend or family member snap a couple of polaroids is just fine.

2. You can either mail in your photos or go to open calls. If you decide to go to an open call, you'll need to take your snapshots with you. Wear a nice, clean outfit, don't go overboard on makeup or accessories. Act professional, be polite, and don't expect to be seen by an agent that day.

If you are signed by an agent, you will have to test with a photographer to build a book. If you have an exceptional look, they might send out polaroids initially, but you WILL have to test with a photographer. This WILL cost money.

Legitimate agencies will not ask you for money upfront for 'classes' or other such things. You should not pay a modeling agency for photos, but the photographer(and usually cash, by the way). A modeling agency WILL take a percentage of what you make, as they are the ones who are marketing you. It isn't a glamorous job... clients can and will be rude, you'll have every flaw imaginable pointed out to you, and you'll have to work hard to be desirable to clients.

Answer 3

Elite and Ford.

Answer 4

http://www.models.com/model_culture/top10agencies/nyc_top10-6.html