Modelling Safety Tips
“Be careful of anyone who promises they can make you a star overnight. The reality is- an agent will set you up for appointments and go-see opportunities but YOU are the one that land's the job.”
Photography: Simon Carter
The modelling world is a vast and diverse one, with different areas emerging all the time however, you should be intelligent enough to be safe. Dodgy agencies or scammers will tell you what you want to hear: for example 'you are just what we are looking for' to make you sign up and pay unnecessary or excessive fees. Be careful of anyone who promises they can make you a star overnight. The reality is- an agent will set you up for appointments and go-see opportunities but YOU are the one that land's the job. So if you arrive intoxicated no one will book you.
Ask the agency questions and be suspicious of anyone who can't or won't provide clear answers. Reputable agencies will tell you that the industry is very tough to get into and only a very small number of people have what it takes to succeed. Lots of good-looking and talented people struggle o get enough work. Beware of companies who scout you on the street and tell you that you have the 'look' A client is keen on your look BUT you must have professional photographs to be considered for it, of course the next thing is the HARD SELL.
Of course you MUST use their photographers and are pressured into purchasing large portfolios, and comp cards sometimes for as much as £1000+. You'd be amazed how often this occurs.... And sadly, how many times I am told people fall for it. We all love being complimented and this appeals to our desire to be wanted, however often jobs they have told you about often do not exist and they do not intend to find you work. Always check out an agency that approaches you on the street to see if they are genuine.
Photography: Simon Carter
Top Tips:
• A good model is a smart model – use your common sense and don't be afraid to say NO. • Never let an agency pressure you into doing anything you are not comfortable with.
• Avoid companies with no address or contact number and ensure to check out the websites, social media and other sources of the agency. A good agency will also have an out of hours emergency number.
• Be cautious of adverts in local papers, classified ads and the Internet looking for models – always check an agencies legitimacy and reach out to models who may have worked with them.
• Always check photographers out and their work & Always take someone an adult with you to photoshoots especially if you under the age of 18.
• Never pay an agency to sign onto their books – an agency makes money from the commission they earn from getting you work. • No one can guarantee you work or an easy route into modelling
• Never sign a contract without reading it and understanding its contents first particularly when dealing with potential international work.
• Know what type of model you are before you start going to castings. You need a portfolio - and it must represent you and what type of model you'll be.
All my love Rhiannah x
Photography: Simon Carter
