For everyone with a great face and a dream, there’s someone out there that will take advantage of it. At least that’s the way it’s been. The internet and abundance of information has made it more difficult for scammers to get away with it. Also, there’s a murky in-between group of individuals that are sort of legit… but are lousy at what they do except collect money from talent. They offer lots of products but no jobs. Here’s a checklist that may help you…
– Trust your gut instincts. Does the agency look busy? Is there a license on the wall? Is the staff professional? If you feel uncertain, leave. You’re not missing an opportunity if you don’t initally trust the people involved.
– It’s all about the dollars. Anytime an “agent” or talent scout wants cash upfront, don’t believe it. They work on commission alone. As for classes… personally I’m not a fan of “schools.” You can learn everything you need from an episode of Top Model or by trail and error with local photographers. Many are always looking for local talent to shoot, especially young women. Just be sure everyone keeps it professional.
– Most real agencies do not beg for talent. You find them, they don’t find you. Be skeptical of people advertising for fresh faces.
– Most scam artists make money by offering high end photo shoots and expensive comp cards. It’s the digital age, if they want you to shoot with a particular photographer, chances are someone’s getting a referral check. A great photo is a great photo, regardless of who shot it.
Most important, know that you alone are in control of your career. Many places like to make promises and say one website, one photo, one perfect thing is going to whisk you away to stardom. It doesn’t work that way. It’s a business and you are selling your image to sell something else. That’s the bottom line. The best way to discover opportunities is by networking with others. Comp cards, websites, all of that is secondary to a handshake and a one-on-one conversation with the right people. Sometimes I think the best way to start is to get your comp cards and be an agent to yourself. Get mailing lists for editors of local fashion magazines and popular photographers, market yourself to them. Most of the time they choose models by sifting through piles of postcards and head shots. It doesn’t matter where they came from. Once your career is moving, the agencies will seek you out personally, and you’ll have a successful track record, and a lot more to bargain with.
boojazz
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