A modeling agent works in the fashion industry, representing models and placing them in various areas of modeling. They review model cards and portfolios, negotiate contracts, advise on fashion and makeup, and maintain ethical standards to retain models.
As implied by the job title, a modeling agent works in fashion modeling and works with books for men, women and children. Modeling agents work with high fashion, catalog, commercial and other models and may specialize in a particular area of modeling or place models in multiple areas. They can work for big modeling agencies or for themselves. A reputable modeling agent normally earns their salary as a percentage of their models earnings, hence they are motivated to put models in good modeling jobs.
A day in the life of a modeling agent might include trying to discover new models by reviewing model cards, also called Zed cards, which are basically the model’s calling card. The modeling agent also reviews model portfolios to find models with the look and feel needed by designers, advertisers, apparel manufacturers, and others who employ models. They contact modeling employers to find out what they are looking for and submit models for model calls. Modeling agents negotiate contracts on behalf of their models or advise models on contract negotiations. They can also track payments to ensure their models are paid as required by their contracts.
Modeling agents often advise their models on what to wear to modeling calls and how to apply makeup for calls. They can also give models recommendations on experienced portfolio photographers who they feel will best bring out the models looks. The modeling agent is usually the primary adviser to the models he represents and is concerned with looking out for the best interests of his stable of models.
Modeling agents can have a large steady number of models or a small number depending on the size of the agency. Most modeling agents are located in major modeling centers such as New York, Milan and Paris. Modeling agents can also be found working in areas that are not generally considered hot spots for modeling. Modeling agents working outside of modeling epicenters may focus more on placing commercial or catalog models rather than in the runway and fashion fields.
A modeling agent usually needs to be highly immersed in the modeling world and have strong contacts to be successful in this competitive industry. There are many scams in modeling, so the modeling agent must maintain high ethical standards to retain models. Finding legitimate work for their models is very important for modeling agents if they want to retain models and make a living in the profession.
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