We understand that there are a lot of questions in regards to a career in modeling. The fact is that there are more opportunities to become a professional model right now than there have ever been in history. Companies need ways to market and advertise their products and employing models is a unique and personal way to connect with their potential customers. This information is provided for the development and education of upcoming and aspiring models courtesy of Alpha Model Group.

Question: What’s the difference in a modeling school, an agency, and a scouting company?
Schools teach modeling, they make their money from the classes they sell. Most schools charge anywhere from $1200 to $2000.00.
Agencies get jobs for models, actors, make-up artists, photographers, and even sometimes athletes. Modeling fees are 20%; acting fees are usually 10%.
Scouting companies find talent for agencies. Scouting companies make money selling the tools needed to model, example portfolios, comp cards etc. Some scouting companies also develop the models. Some agencies develop the models, others would rather sign someone who knows and understands the business and what’s expected. Scouting companies and models searches also receive a finders or mother agency fee of 5%, which is paid by the agency NOT the model.

Question: If your called for a modeling job, do you have to accept it?
Answer: Although in the beginning you need experience, the answer is No, you have the right to accept or reject any job offered.

Question: How many times do I have to buy a photo shoot?
Answer: Test shoots can be shoots to start a portfolio. Most agencies will want you to do a test. The cost is usually $150.00 to $350.00 depending on how many looks and images taken. A test shoot is NOT a portfolio! A portfolio is a collection of images from different shoots and tear sheets of modeling jobs you have done. As long as you model your book will always have to be updated from time to time.

Question: Are taxes taken out of modeling assignments?
Answer: No, as a model, you are an independent contractor, if your agency contract is non-exclusive, you can work for as many agencies as you want, when you want, and for whatever compensation you agree. At the end of the year, agencies you have made over $600.00 with will send you a 1099. Keep receipts, you need some guidance in this area.
Question: What’s the difference in an exclusive and non-exclusive contract?
Answer: Non-exclusive means you can sign with multiple agencies. Exclusive means you can only work with that one agency.

Question: I’ve heard that if an agency wants you, they pay for everything!
Answer: Sometimes NY agencies will shoot models and pay the upfront costs. That is with models signed on an exclusive basis only. The model has an account with the agency, when the model works, any money for not only photography, but for overnight shipments of portfolios, comp cards, EVEN LONG DISTANCE PHONE CALLS ARE DEDUCTED from the check. As soon as the model works, the money is paid back to the agency, any money left goes to the model.
By paying for your own test shoots, you have possession of the images and portfolio. Most models sign with more than one agency, it is far better for you to own your portfolio.

Provided by Alpha Model Group Development
©Copyright 2004 Alpha Model Group