How to Find Truth in the Modeling Industry

The modeling industry is fascinating, compelling, and confusing. You may not know who to trust, how to enter, if you are qualified, and what is a “scam.” You see lovely models on the runway, their photos in magazines, their faces on TV. You’d like to try this, but you may have heard stories about bad businesses or bad outcomes. What’s the best way to start? The best way to start modeling is through education. Read and learn as much as you can before you begin.

However, be careful of self-appointed “experts.” Often, they simply want to publicize a sensational story. Investigate their background and qualifications. Make sure that your guide has the right credentials, no ulterior motives, and ignore anyone that gives advice anonymously.

How do I know if an agency, photographer, modeling school, convention or “expert” is reputable?

It’s hard to know who to trust and you are smart to be careful. We would like to help you to learn the difference between good companies and bad ones. Every industry has them. When you are interested in modeling and you meet someone new, ask yourself (and this individual or company) the following questions:

1. What is their history?: How long have they been in business? Do they have a business license? Are they members of the Better Business Bureau? A new person or company is risky in this industry. Let someone else “test the waters.” In addition, what are their qualifications or background to be in the modeling industry?
2. What is this company’s reputation? What do others say about them? (such as the Better Business Bureau, clients, or other reputable businesses) Also, get referrals or references from their customers, clients, or prospective models, like yourself.
3. Who are their Success Stories? Who have they represented and what have these models accomplished? (Like Millie Lewis, any reputable company or person with success stories will be proud of them and publish or display them.)
4. What is your gut feeling? How does this company or person make you feel? Trust your instincts. Is this company representative too “slick” or “sexy?” Do they talk “big” and promise you work or representation? If anyone promises you anything, walk away.

Experts

Read as much as you can about modeling. At Millie Lewis, we have parents and models who become experts on the industry. They learn about modeling before becoming models, and, of course, they learn even more through on-site experience. You can learn about modeling and be a smart consumer, too. Many excellent books exist. Please see our “Recommended Reading” Section. However, keep in mind the four questions above when you are evaluating an “expert” or potential advisor. Be wary of “gossip” advisors; “I heard this…” or “My friend said that…” As the soap operas have taught us, many people love to hear and spread sensational stories, whether they are true or not. Always consider the source.

Children in Modeling

How do you know if your child is “right” for modeling? The first question to ask yourself is, “Is this my dream or my child’s dream?” Moms and Dads, for a child to succeed in modeling or talent, this child must want to perform himself. Following are some questions which may help you determine if modeling or acting is right for your child.

1. Is your child naturally outgoing? Does he or she willingly answer questions and talk with strangers? This may not be a desirable trait in some situations, but in modeling and talent, it’s a necessity.
2. Does your child love to play-act? Does he or she sing, dance, imitate TV commercials or performers? Does he like to pose for pictures?
3. Is your child above average in intelligence? Does he learn and memorize quickly? If he is in school, are his grades excellent?
4. Does your child relate well to adults?
5. Is your child patient? For parents of small children, this question is especially important. On a modeling job or a TV commercial set, you and your child will be waiting- a lot. A Director will not expect your child to be perfect, but will your child entertain himself by coloring, quiet games, and reading? A Director will not tolerate an overactive, disruptive, whining, demanding, or complaining child.

The five questions above are usually answered with a “yes” for children who are the most successful. Please note that we do not list beauty as the most important attribute of success. Certainly, being handsome or beautiful can be desirable. In some modeling situations, it’s a necessity. However, we have all seen unusual kids, plump kids, kids with glasses or braces, kids with funny hair or different looks in lots of ads and TV commercials. They’re making money and having a great time, too. Therefore, no one look can be considered at “perfect.”

At the Millie Lewis AMTC, we will work with children as young as three years old, if they are exceptionally mature. Otherwise, ages four and five might be good starting points. We have had excellent results with our children. Work is always plentiful for the young, and competition is keen.

What do you with your adorable baby or toddler? If you live in or near a major city, check out agencies on the web or in the yellow pages who handle babies. Call and get their requirements and procedures. If you do not live within easy driving distance of a major city, your baby will have difficulty being accepted by a national agency. A reputable agent will not represent a baby or toddler who cannot come in for auditions without undo trouble or expense. Remember that every big city has lots of cute babies who live right there. An agent with a conscience will not want this baby and parent from small town U.S.A. to travel to New York for an audition when 100 other babies from the city will be there, too, and only one will get chosen. What about smaller agencies that might be near to you? Check them out.

Modeling Schools and Agencies

Check out reputable agencies in your home town or within driving distance. How do you know if an agency is reputable? Investigate their history, reputation, success stories, and clients, as detailed above. You also can call your local department stores, upscale fashion boutiques and large advertising agencies to find out how they hire their models. Is there one main agency with whom they work? That would be an excellent starting place.

Does this agency promise or imply modeling success to sell a course, photos, or a service? If so, be careful. No matter how attractive you are, modeling success cannot be guaranteed. True success relies on many factors beyond physical appearance, such as personality, intelligence, motivation, family support, and desire. Rely on your “gut feeling.”

What about modeling school? We at AMTC believe in a good modeling or personal development school. This specialized education helps improve appearance, poise, self-confidence, business and social skills, and interview techniques. Personal Development and Modeling help lift pre-teens and teens above peer pressure. That benefit alone may be worth the cost of tuition. However, be careful of franchise schools with “hard sell” tactics. If a school promises agency representation after a course of study, that, too, may be misleading. A Modeling or Personal Development Course should be taken with education and self-improvement as the goals, as well as an introduction to modeling.

Internet Representation

When internet representation for models and talent began, it seemed to offer great promise. You might think this type of representation would help local models get seen all over the world. Unfortunately, it has become quite a playground for scams. The truth of the internet is that reputable clients (ad agencies, magazines, stores, major modeling or talent agencies and casting directors) seldom “surf the net” for future stars.

Why don’t they look on the internet for models? First, the internet is overwhelming. Too many sites exist with thousands of “would be” models, who are largely unqualified. Second, they don’t have time. Finally, an agency or client is not going to risk their own reputation in booking an unknown model for a job. She may not look like her pictures. She may not know what to do. She may be late, undependable, or hard to work with. Major clients want to work with models who are approved, tested, professional and prepared- those who are listed with reputable agencies. A lot of money is put into a photo shoot for a fashion, beauty or commercial product, and all of the technicians and people involved, including the model, must be professional.

Also, a good agent would not want you to risk your money flying in for an audition when many dozens of qualified models are right there within their own city. Yes, you will see some of the major New York Agencies on the internet. They are there to advertise their agencies- not their models. Bookings still happen the “old-fashioned” way- through auditions and referrals. Our advice from AMTC is stay away from internet companies.

Web Sites

Although we do not recommend internet representation for unsigned models, check out a few of the major agency web sites, such as www.fordmodels.com, www.wilhelmina.com, www.dnamodels.com, www.newyorkmodels.com or www.jetsetmodels.com. You can see what types of models are signed with major agencies, as well as their pictures and their composite cards. Wilhelmina’s site has many different types of models, such as Fashion, Teen, Plus, Children, Mature, and Commercial. That information is helpful, as it may guide you toward what pictures may be right for you. Another helpful website for young teen girls is the www.rlgirl.com site. It has featured several AMTC models, including Lindsey Fingerle and Caroline Pires. The site actually shows live modeling on location.

The only website we recommend for consumer advocacy is The Better Business Bureau, www.bbb.com. The BBB lists all companies in cities who have had complaints within the last three years, whether or not these companies are members of the BBB. In addition, they list whether the complaints were resolved. The Better Business Bureau is an internationally respected organization with strict policies to protect consumers, as well as judging the validity and resolution of complaints. Be wary of anonymous experts or anonymous web sites giving you information on modeling. As an example, the BBB requires approved company web sites to list all contact information (Owners, physical address, telephone) and background.

Modeling Conventions

We are a modeling and talent convention, and we believe in what we do. Millie Lewis stands alone as the safest, most time effective, cost effective, educational, inspirational, and family-centered way to see meet many reputable agents, managers and casting directors from all over the world in one place at one time. However, many types of modeling conventions exist. You must check out their history, reputation, success stories, and the quantity and quality of the agencies attending. Study their web sites. Read what the agencies and participants think about the event. Does the event include instruction before attending? Will you be prepared and represented by an agency within your area before, during, and after the convention? Have you met this local agency and do you feel comfortable with them?

Modeling Searches/ Mini-Conventions

In the 1980’s traveling model searches began sweeping the nation. These companies were largely out of New York and traveled around the country selling mini-conventions directly to the public. These events did not include any training. Many went out-of-business, such as Model Search America, NYC Fame, Manhattan Model Search, and New York Model Contracts. Certainly, new events may emerge. They are categorized by “big talk,” “hard sales,” and heartless tactics. Worst of all, they leave many hopeful models feeling worse about themselves, rather than educated and uplifted. Many searches disparage local modeling schools or agencies and every other type of event or representation, except their own. Some of them also claim to help acting or talent participants, while allowing them no opportunity to perform. These “New York” search firms do have agents attending; some are reputable. Others may be new or questionable.

Can this type of event help you? Again, check them out as outlined above (history, reputation, success stories, testimonials, and the Better Business Bureau). Follow your “gut feeling,” and remember that this is only an introduction to the industry. It is not personal. Depending on the company, you may leave an event of this type feeling like a “number,” still unsure of where you may fit into modeling and what is the best way to start.

Traveling “Agencies” Selling Photos and Comp Cards

Some “agencies” will travel through your city selling pictures and composite cards (model’s business cards with photos on them). They will then offer to represent you as an agent. No reputable agency does this. It is a scam. You are paying an inflated price for photos and will soon learn that this agency on your comp cards is no real agency at all- at least not in your area. Don’t waste your money and your trust.

Fashion Photographers

The best way to find a good fashion photographer is by referral from a reputable modeling or talent agency. A fashion photographer usually lives in a major city. He or she most often travels with a professional makeup artist and stylist. Both the photographer and the stylist should have worked for large, professional agencies with names and web sites that you can check out.

Do not spend money on unknown photographers, unless it is just for experience, and it is very inexpensive. Always take a parent or an adult with you on a shoot with an unknown photographer. A genuine fashion shoot often ranges between $300.00 and $500.00, including the stylist. Many photographers will give you your images, in the form of slides or a photo CD. This is a great savings, because you then own your negatives. You can have them enlarged inexpensively. You sometimes need a photo release from a photographer, so make sure you get one.

What Types of Photos Do I Need?

• Don’t allow yourself to be talked into buying a “portfolio.” A portfolio is a collection of pictures and “tear sheets” (printed work) from many different photographers, situations, jobs, and settings over a period of time. You cannot “buy” one. It comes with experience. Many hopeful models are given misinformation by traveling photographers and companies who support themselves with your naivety. As a new model, you only need good enough photos to interest a reputable agency. After that, your agency will guide you. Following are a few suggestions with which to begin:
• A new model only needs 2-6 photos (in general) to show the Agents. An Agent eliminates potential new models by remembering the weakest picture that they see. Only bring the very best photos to AMTC (or to any other industry professional.)
• Actor’s photos are usually 8×10. Models Photos are 8×10 or 9×12. 8×10’s should be completely acceptable until you are with a major agency. Good laser prints are acceptable.
• The types of pictures generally required:
• Fashion models need a good headshot (natural, hair out of face to show bone structure), a swimsuit shot or body shot, and 0-4 other photos of your choice. Less is more. No makeup.
• Commercial models needs a good headshot (natural), and 1-4 other photos showing you in a variety of age appropriate outfits and situations, including career shots or sports shots. Little makeup, if any.
• Actors need a headshot in a very simple setting, with natural hair and makeup (just as you look everyday). Do not try to look older. It is a gift to look younger in the acting industry. 3/4 shots are acceptable, too. Your one-page resume should be stapled on the back. Although black and white headshots used to be the “norm,” color shots and 3/4 length shots are becoming more standard.
• Singers and Dancers should have a good headshot, one-page resume stapled to the back, showing you at your bookable “best.”
• Models who wish to act must also have an actor’s headshot and resume. A comp card will not be taken seriously by Acting Agents.
• Snapshots are acceptable (if you do not have the access, referral or income to shoot with a major agency photographer), as long as the rules above are followed, and you only have 2-6. Don’t show an agent your scrapbook or photo album.

Model’s Composite Cards

Model’s Composite Cards have photo(s) of the model printed on them, along with hair color, eye color and sizes. A new model’s card may have 1-4 photos on it. It can be one or two sided, in color or black and white, and can range between $1.00-$2.50 per card, depending on the printer. This card is like a large “business card,” to be left with or sent to an agent, client or casting director. We do not recommend that beginning models print a lot of cards (or any), as you may change looks or agencies and have to “start over.”

A Fashion Model or a Commercial Model

Two main forms of photographic modeling exist: fashion modeling and commercial modeling. Fashion modeling is more publicized and “glamorous.” The fashion model is selling clothes or a beauty product, like makeup, skin care, or perfume. Fashion models have very specific size and height requirements. They are usually tall and thin, with well defined facial bone structure and symmetrical facial features. They often photograph better than they look in person. Salaries are high. Competition is intense.

Commercial modeling encompasses 90% of the industry. In commercial modeling, the model is selling anything other than a fashion or beauty product; the model is holding a Pepsi can, standing by a computer, playing tennis, or eating in a restaurant. The commercial model is selling a product or may be representing a service or a company. Spokesmodels are also commercial models.

Commercial models come in all shapes and sizes, as long as they are “bookable.” Commercial models are often attractive, but they may also be ordinary, interesting, or even, character types. Salaries are good. Work is often part-time. Many commercial models also act in TV commercials.

Other Ways for a Model to Get Started

Does a model have to go to a convention or a school to get started? Certainly not, although either one can increase your education, exposure, and knowledge of the industry. We believe educatio, excellent grooming, and preparation are vital for success. What other ways exist for a model to get seen by Agents?

A model can travel to a major fashion market and go to “open calls.” Some major agencies (not all) have a certain small amount of time each week or month where new models can walk in and get seen by a representative for a few moments. Open Call has worked for a handful of girls or guys, who had the right look in the right place at the right time. Some agencies do this more as a courtesy to the public than as a serious avenue to find new models. Even if they have open call, they sometimes send an intern or a low level employee out to see the potential models that come in. If you need development, i.e. to lose or gain a little bit of weight, to get pictures, change your grooming, self-confidence, or to work on your skin, they will not take the time to tell you the constructive criticism that will get you on the right path to a career in this industry.

Of course, you may be unsure what doors in what cities to knock on. What about European agencies or Japanese agencies? Many viable markets exist outside of the U.S. What if you choose the wrong agency or never visit the right one? Different agencies want different looks. How many cities can you visit? Every option has its risks.

You can also mail pictures to any fashion or modeling agency. Many thousands of prospective models do this, and surely, a few get discovered in this way. It’s certainly cheap and relatively easy. However, again the question is raised; what if you choose the wrong agency, send the wrong snapshot, or never get seen by the right person at the right agency for you? Do you know what photos or grooming may get you noticed?

It is as important for models to take acting, voice, dance, and speech classes as it is for actors and entertainers.

Models do not just have to look good, have good skin, good bodies, good hair, and good teeth. A successful modeling career is about presentation. You have to be able to move on front of a camera, to interview, to convey emotion, to seem magnetic in person and on film. If you want to be a model, take acting classes, join your school’s drama program, take a dance class. Prepare yourself for any kind of job that might come your way.

The Five Attributes of Success

Millie Lewis, as a company, has been in existence since 1960. Through these 40+ years, tens of thousand of girls and guys have tried to make modeling or entertainment a career. We have seen many successes. We have seen more failures. Worthy of interest, some of the most beautiful or talented people became “failures.” Even more interesting are “unlikely” candidates who succeeded beyond all expectations (except, perhaps, their own). So what, then, are the common attributes of modeling or talent success?

Success Attribute #1:

Appearance for Models and Talent for Entertainers.

Both appearance and talent have one thing in common; they are largely God-given. God, your parents, and genetics gave you a striking face, a handsome figure, or the ability to act, sing or dance. Of course, your gift should be honed and practiced. Great athletes have a gift, too. But none of these gifts are valuable without the hard work to perfect them. Interestingly, we have all seen models who were not attractive, actors on TV that cannot act, and singers on MTV that cannot really sing. So, Attribute #1 is highly desired and can open a door, but it’s not 100% necessary.

In addition, please know that most models and talent are achievers in many areas. Many are athletes, scholars, linguists, musicians, and community, school, and business leaders. The more skills you can “bring to the table,” the better.

Success Attribute #2:

Personality.

Having a warm and outgoing personality can make a break a career. If you are beautiful on the outside but ugly on the inside, you will not succeed. Too much competition exists. Beautiful models and talented actors are in abundance in major markets. What separates those who work from those who do not? A special “sparkle” and a warm personality will get you noticed and booked. In addition, if you are fun, non-complaining, and easy to work with on a job, your chances of getting re-booked are high.

Success Attribute #3:

Intelligence.

AMTC will not work with students who have below a “B” average in school, unless extenuating circumstances exist. “A’s” are preferred, If you are a great student, that achievement usually means that… you do your homework, come to class regularly, get along with your teachers, and have discipline. To an Agent, they want to know, if you are booked on a job, that you will… be dependable, show up on time, get along with your employers, and be prepared. Good students make good models. If you are an under-achiever, work harder. The myth of the “empty headed model” is a myth indeed. Many adults in professional careers also embark in the modeling or talent fields. Models and entertainers are smart, and they are achievers.

Success Attribute #4:

Family Support.

The AMTC is the only event of its type in the world that is completely family-oriented and family-owned, with three generations of the same family. As a family business, we feel your best chance of success in modeling or talent lies with your own desire built on a foundation of family support. How much does your family want you do this? Do they care enough to understand the business with you? If you are a teen, will a parent or guardian travel with you to out-of-town interviews and jobs? That type of commitment what we recommend. A parent’s place in the modeling and talent industry is for transportation, safety, and emotional support. We recommend that families be involved every step of the way.

On the other hand, the industry has no room for “stage parents.” Your children or teens must want this opportunity themselves. They must be able to speak for themselves and interview without prodding.

Success Attribute #5:

Desire.

How much do you want to do this? How strong is your desire and determination? Desire is the only attribute of success that you cannot do without. Desire, alone, is the largest determinant of your ultimate success. How many actors were turned down for jobs repeatedly before they got their “big break?” Supermodels may also be rejected. Lauren Hutton had a space between her teeth, Cindy Crawford had a mole on her face. AMTC success, Charlotte Dodds, was too short. If they had not had the desire and determination to keep trying, they would not have succeeded.