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DPChallenge Forums >> General Discussion >> Need info to help young man get into modeling...
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 09/01/2008 11:22:09 AM · #1
I figured someone on dpc knows the answer to this:

I have a friend, a young man who is 24, who is interested in modeling, but doesn't know how to go about getting into it. A lot of the "modeling recruiting" things he has seen look like scams. So, how does one go about finding legitimate modeling agencies to see if he even "has what it takes" to do this?

He is in the greater Wash DC area, though I don't know if that makes a difference.

Thanks for any help and direction,
Linda

09/01/2008 12:18:41 PM · #2
The loaded question 'Do I have What it Takes?'

First thing you need to do is tell him to NEVER.... NEVER ask that.

Next, he needs to figure out what type of modeling he wants to do. Research that type of modeling.

Next, Never pay a 'recruiter' or 'finder'. Look in the Yellow Pages, find a Modeling Agency and contact them. If Told to Pay, Walk Away.

Though, the first and foremost thing he needs to figure out is what type of modeling. Because truth be told, anyone can be a model for a particular type.
09/01/2008 12:33:08 PM · #3
Originally posted by littlegett:
The loaded question 'Do I have What it Takes?'

First thing you need to do is tell him to NEVER.... NEVER ask that.

Next, he needs to figure out what type of modeling he wants to do. Research that type of modeling.

Next, Never pay a 'recruiter' or 'finder'. Look in the Yellow Pages, find a Modeling Agency and contact them. If Told to Pay, Walk Away.

Though, the first and foremost thing he needs to figure out is what type of modeling. Because truth be told, anyone can be a model for a particular type.


What he said.

I may add...

Depending on the type of modeling he does, make sure he sells it, and takes care of himself in the process.

There are thousands of people that he will be up against. Yes, thousands. Think world wide. America is not the only market.

Start locally, get a resume together, head shots, and start beating the pavement.

BE PERSISTENT, DO NOT STALK. Persistence is one tactic to have someone get to know you. Especially when he upgrades his head shot, or resume.

DC probably has some agencies, but New York and L.A. are the kings of the coasts when he is ready to go big time.

Good luck.
 09/01/2008 12:36:37 PM · #4
What littlegett said...

In my experience, many modelling agencies will want you to take a course. Then go to photogs they choose or recommend for the shots for his book. Then pay to be on the headsheet. Then...well, sit and wait til agent sends you on a go-see.

Frankly, I got much more work as an extra than I ever did as a model. Small registration fee, they generally take your pic anyway so you don't need a book. And if you're on set and the bigwigs notice that you happen to bear a striking resemblance to an actor, you may end up getting work as a double or stand-in.

And trust me, extra work takes noooo skill at all - other than that of learning set etiquette and doing as you're told by the wranglers. Yes, you do often have to bring your own wardrobe. Two words: Sally Ann. Value Village. I put together my extra wardrobe together from those fine establishments.

But if he's really set on modelling, then he should be between 5'10-6'2, work out (no, not ginormou muscles, but what he has should be defined), I would imagine being willing to get *ahem* waxed/shaved in certain areas and be able to look good with short/long hair. And is he not only photogenic, but does he know - as Tyra Banks would say - his angles - does he know from which angles he looks good?

If you have a few shots of this young man to post, then I'm sure those photogs on this site who do shoot models can offer advice too in terms of his look.

Hope this helps!
 09/01/2008 05:47:01 PM · #5

Thanks so much to all of you for your input!

You've given me some things to pass on to him to think about. I don't think he has any shots at all yet, but maybe I can get a chance to get some and post them - that's a great idea.
 09/01/2008 06:24:28 PM · #6
Go for it! And if there is a local college offering Photography courses, he may be able to get some decent pix with a senior student photog. I didn't get any stunning shots from sessions like these, but the cost is generally a lot less than going to pros. In my day, I paid for the film, that was it.
Keep us posted!
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