Skip to main content

Signing that Contract!


You've found an agency that's interested in you! YAY! This is the moment that all model hopefuls wait for. But just because there is someone who wants to represent you, that doesn't necessarily mean it's a complete green light.

Thoroughly check out the agency (if it's a top market agency like FORD, Elite, etc., then it's a given that they're the real deal), learn how long the agency has been in business, how many models it represents and what the list of clients are and who they've worked with in the past.

When you meet with the interested agent, take your time getting to know them and don't just listen to them talk about themselves. Ask questions, even ones you may think are dumb and make sure you are satisfied with every answer they give you.

Lay out a clear outline of what the agency expects of you and vice-versa. In other words, make sure that you know how the agent is going to market and represent you and let them know the type of modeling and project you are interested in being submitted for.

If you've caught the interest of more than one agent, then that's great but don't tell the other agencies that. It's not very professional and can backfire on you. Be subtle and look over all the info and contracts from each agency on your own time and then make your decision based on what will suit you best.

When turning down an offer, you don't need to go into detail. A simple, "Thank you but I have to politely decline your offer" will work just fine. Don't flaunt that you decided to sign with a different agency...even when turning someone down, you never want to burn bridges. It will always find a way to bite you in the butt later on.

If everything checks out and you're ready to roll, sign the contract --BUT-- take time to look over the contract and PLEASE READ THE FINE PRINT! Bring a magnifying glass if you need to. Ask them to clarify anything in the contract that you don't understand and be fully aware of the bigger picture--don't just limit your knowledge to what is going on at the moment.

No agent will pressure you to sign a contract. If you are underage, your parents may want to take the contract home or get a copy of it so they can take a closer look. This is fine by all means, so don't think that your parents are trying to ruin your life. If the agent is legit, they won't have a problem, but will let you know that the offer won't stay on the table forever.

Be sure to note whether it is an exclusive contract (meaning you can only work for that agent and can't be representated by anyone else) or a non-exclusive agent (meaning you're free to receive bookings from another agent who isn't in the same location/market). Each type of contract has its ups and downs so make sure you know what you're getting into and that it won't be a decision you'll regret.
Labels:

Comments

Birdbath said…
How should I go about investigating local agencies for my teenager? I know one does charge for classes to "get you ready". We are not near the bigger, more reputable agencies. Do they have a presence in most big cities?
February 21, 2014 at 9:38 AM
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Birdbath! You'll find the answer to your questions in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #717," which can be found on my other blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
February 21, 2014 at 5:50 PM
Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Modeling and Weight

One of the first things I hear potential models ask is what the weight requirement for modeling is. Sometimes that is the main issue they worry about when it comes to pursuing modeling. Let me tell you right now that weight should NOT be one of those concerns. Obviously, the height requirement reigns supreme when measuring up to the modeling standards sought out by agencies. If you meet the height requirements--whether it's for fashion and runway or commercial/print--that is the first step towards starting on the path to modeling. How much you weigh shouldn't be your biggest fear. It is rare that anyone can look at someone and say, "Oh, my gosh, he/she looks like they are 5 pounds over our weight requirement!" It just isn't realistic. If you look at many modeling agency websites, they clearly list the age and height requirements--rarely, if at all do they list any weight restrictions. The general rule of thumb when it comes to weight is that for models who ...
6 comments
Read more

Modeling & Pay Rates: How Much Should You Charge?

(This post is more targeted towards freelance models and not those with agency representation, although it may apply to those that have an agent but continue to find their own work.) A part of being a successful model is making money from the jobs that you book. However, being a freelance model comes with many challenges--figuring out what you should charge is one of them. I will say upfront that there are no established black and white rules when it comes to pay rates. Each modeling job is different, each client is different and budgets vary. Ultimately the factors that should influence what you charge should be the amount of experience you have, the strength of the images in your portfolio and the client's budget/needs. Not every client is going to pay what you want to charge. There may be times when you will be skipped over for charging too much or taken advantage of for charging too little. It's going to happen so be prepared for it and do not take it personally. It...
37 comments
Read more

What Are Male Models Supposed to Look Like?

The modeling world is filled with women. That's never been a secret and sadly, that often means male models fall by the wayside. There are successful male models in all categories across the industry but the fact that the modeling business revolves around women can make it challenging for newbies to figure out how to pursue their goals of male modeling. It is important to know that because there are different types of modeling categories out there, that means there are also different types of male models. They aren't all supposed to look alike and what ends up being in demand does change every year. Let's break down the common attributes that come with male modeling in various popular categories, shall we? THE MALE FASHION/RUNWAY/EDITORIAL MODEL These are the typical types of models most of us tend to think of when it comes to men in modeling. What is important to know and understand if you're an aspiring male model is that agencies have all different looks ...
4 comments
Read more