Skip to main content

Answering a Reader Question #43


Anonymous Wrote:

Thanks for this...

I hope people learn, I went through this when I was seven. Got contacted by a smaller agency, but never heard from them afterward. My mom and I have learned definitely.

I have a question, that coincidentally relates to the video in a way. When you send pictures to agencies online, some (for example Ford, Elite and IMG) have a "message box" separate from entering your measurements, height, etc. What do you suggest you type in there to catch their attention? And if you don't mind, could you provide an example.

Any help is great! And thanks again for the video, though my mom probably wishes she would've seen it eight years ago lol.


Hey, and thanks for the question! I'm sorry to hear that you've experienced what I'm sure many others have. I hope that I am able to tune in to the full episode when it airs...I'm sure it will go pretty in depth and really show people what to be on the lookout for and what to avoid.

As for your question, yes, I know exactly the box you're talking about. Most message boxes are optional so you don't have to fill it out but it is totally up to you. I personally don't think it will put anyone at a higher advantage. However, putting the wrong thing can definitely harm your chances of gaining an agency's interest.

There really is no formula to writing something in the message box but you definitely want to keep it short and sweet. Most have a character limit anyway to avoid long, drawn out pleas for model stardom. Ha ha. But I would advise writing a few sentences, introducing yourself and what type of modeling work you are interested in. Depending on your situation, describe what you are looking for. In my case I used to have agency representation but am now freelance and seeking new agency representation. Below is a sample of a similar message I've written in a message box when submitting to agencies online:

Hello, my name is Dania Denise and I am seeking representation through your agency. I parted ways with my agent in December of 2008 and am now freelance until I can secure new representation. I have years of experience in commercial/print modeling and am known for being dependable, punctual, fun, professional, and easy to work with. Thank you for your time and I hope to hear from you soon.

I never mention the name of my previous agency in these message boxes or in general to another agency unless they ask. The industry is filled with competition and while the name-dropping could work in your favor, some agencies may have their own notions/stereotypes of what another agency is like as well as their models. This could result in them unfairly thinking one thing or another about you, making it their reason to not consider you altogether. It may be far fetched but in the past I've had an agency respond to me saying, "I am no fan of [previous agent]. As a word of advice, do not state who you used to be with unless you are asked." Ouch! Ha ha.

Be sure to at least mention your name, that you are seeking representation through their agency, what type of modeling you want to do (or are doing), and whether you have experience or are a new model. Keep it basic, keep it simple, and keep it short and sweet.

Comments

Anonymous said…
Thanks so much for answering my question! I'm sorry one more please (sorry I'm being a bother), when does a model's shoe size become a problem? When she exceeds a size 9, 10, or 11?
Dania Denise said…
No bother at all...I love answering questions! You can find your answer in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #45." I know many other people may benefit from these questions, which is why I like to post the answers instead of just answering them in a comment. Questions are always welcome!

Popular posts from this blog

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

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

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