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CAO Modelz FAQ
LisaW, CAO Modelz Board moderator, answers frequently asked questions (as compiled by a volunteer CAO member and LisaW)
Where do I start if I want to model?
Modeling agencies have "open calls" a time each week where a new model can go and see and an agent. From this meeting you might be asked to sign on with this agent. I would recommend seeing several agencies before committing to anyone. If a particular agent isn't interested in representing you they will give feedback and advice (if asked). Advice from the top agents (see partial list) should usually be listened to. An agent has nothing to gain by not giving truthful feedback.
What are the required measurements for modelling?
Standard measurements for a female model are 5'9" and taller with 36" chest, 24" waist and 34" hips. Good teeth, good hair, nice smile, great legs.
What are typical male model statistics?
You're looking at being at least 6 feet, 40 inch chest (but probably not much bigger than a 42, or clothes won't hang right), not over a 32 inch waist, inseam probably about 34 inches.
Suit size would be either a Regular or Tall coupled to his chest size (i.e., if you had a 40 inch chest, your suit size would be either 40R or 40T).
Shoe size should be between say, 9 and 12--otherwise you're getting into uncommon sizes for men.
What is a good plan to follow when looking for an agent?
There are really only so many good modeling agents in any city. Go and see them all (see the section on "open calls") and go with whoever is the most interested and you have the most rapport with. If no one is interested in taking you on at that moment find out why. Is it something you can change? Then decide if it's worth it to you and change it. If it's something you can't (or won't) change (you height, your nose) then talk to another agent. If none of the top agents are interested, I would put some thought into why.
I want to model and act. Should I have two different agents?
Yes, it is usually a good idea--most models that act in film, TV and theatre are represented by a separate acting agent. Although if you are interested in doing commercials and small roles a good modeling agency can be OK. Depends on the agency (see our partial list of agents in this FAQ). Some agencies have a strong talent division--Ford Models / Ford Talent and some have sister agents Elite/ Butler Rustin Bell. So it does depend on the specific agency but generally if you are serious about acting you should have a separate talent agent.
You are going to a modelling agency open call. You do not have any test shots or tear sheets, so you want get some regular snapshots to bring in to show the agency. You want the agency to sign you with these very snapshots. Any suggestions on how to impress the agency with regular snapshots?
I would take one snapshot with light makeup (or no makeup) and your hair unstyled (down with little or no product in it). And one full body shot in a bathing suit or tight fitting clothes. Don't try to make them look like model shots...just great snaps.
I have helped friends who just borrowed a reasonably good camera, bought a roll or two of regular color film and snapped away. Keep them casual, relaxed. Maybe with and without smile. Just keep it simple. They just want to see how you photograph plain and simple.
Can you recommend some modelling agencies here in Toronto?
Here are a few that I think every serious aspiring model should visit (not a full list):
Ford, Elite, Armstrong, Sherrida, Sutherlands, Giovanni, B & M, NEXT Models.
I am a 5'5 petite girl. Do I have a realistic shot at modelling?
There is literally no work for petite models in Toronto. If you are serious about being a model you should go see the top agents (check out my partial list) and talk to them about what market they think you would be good for. They could then set you up with an agent in that city.
Shorter girls work in Asia (especially blondes) and there is a good petite market in some American cities (a bit more difficult because of the work visa). Be wary if an agent tells you there is petite work in Toronto.
However, there are opportunities in acting. Commercials absolutely. There is also some commercial print work (not fashion) that doesn't have height requirements.
I know some international markets take shorter girls but usually more like 5'7" or 5'8". New York and some other cities do have a petite market. Although I don't know specifics about their requirements--the one thing I know is the body measurements (for petite fashion) are very small.
I am not a traditional looking model type but I'd like to try it out. I've heard catalogues pay well. The people in catalogues don't look like models anyway.
Something to keep in mind: modeling is a business like any other. The odd person flukes into quick work but most of the people you see in catalogues are seasoned working models with fantastic portfolios. For catalogue work you have to have the specific measurements of certain sizes-the clothes have to fit perfectly (see required measurements above). Flipping through a catalogue you wouldn't know that the person smiling out at you has often spent thousands on portfolio, has perfect measurements, a top agent, has paid their dues in the industry for a few years, and has spent endless weeks pounding the pavement meeting catalogue houses and photographers. A model gets a high hourly rate but if you factor in all the countless hours of auditions and go-sees and networking, the fees are not that high. It is not a quick way to make money. Be wary of anyone who tells you this.
I'd like some advice on things to do once you have a modeling agent, besides going to the gym and knocking on doors.
You're totally right about going to the gym! And pounding the pavement.
Although, I would say that you should put some thought into who's door you knock on. In Montreal it's a lot more acceptable to knock on photographers doors to meet them. Years ago I did this in Toronto (knocking on doors) and was often met with the cold shoulder and "you should really get your agent to set something up".
My advice would be that once you have an agent establish the best rapport possible with him or her. Whether that be friendly drop ins (when they're not swamped) or taking your agent out for lunch. Definitely not sucking up but just making yourself known to them as a partner in business.
I always looked at it as any other business. Anyone I work with I want to get to know. This can be tricky when there are many models to one agent. Be sensitive to not waste their time and be up front about what your goals are.
If you want to go abroad first tell them and then take the appropriate steps. If they say they need a copy of your book, do it right away!
Be to them the business partner that you want them to be to you. If you feel you're not getting enough castings, let them know. Figure out with them: do you need a new look? some new pictures? or is it a slow time of year? perhaps you feel you're not seeing the right type of clients?
I would say the more communication the better.
Socializing can also play a really big part. Networking at parties with clients is a really helpful thing, but only if it comes naturally.
I would say to always have your composite cards with you. If you meet one of your parent's friends who owns a clothing store give them a card. You run into a show coordinator you worked with once, remind them who you are with an updated card.
Also, always be ready for your agent to call. Sometimes bookings and castings are so last minute...so if you're really serious about modeling always carry your comp cards with you. Always have a small makeup kit so if you get a panicked call to go for a catalogue shoot, you'll be prepared.
Always keep yourself up. I've seen models who say "I was JUST ABOUT TO get my haircut/ get a manicure/ deep condition my hair/ pluck my eyebrows so I didn't look my best at the casting."
The ones who are the most successful tend to always be ready and look great. This can feel tedious at the beginning of a career when you're not working that much...but I would say it will pay off. And you can very easily do all the up-keep yourself, there is no need to go to expensive salons. You can get student haircuts at Vidal Sasoon (in most cities) for a fraction of what they normally cost, you can go to Edith Serei school of esthetics (Toronto) and get facials and manicure. Or you can do things yourself at home (except maybe haircuts!!!). It's just important to always look your best.
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