For anyone keen to make it as a model, working out how to get a modelling agent is a key piece of the puzzle.
Look at any of the stars of fashion today, from Kendall Jenner to Precious Lee, and you’ll see that all of the top models have agents. For Brits, UK modelling agents are the gatekeepers to the fashion world. They have the contacts, expertise, and clout that can help you land top clients, earn big money, and even break into the realm of celebrity (if that’s what you’re looking for).
It all starts with getting signed.
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A modelling agent balances their time between nurturing their talent (the models they represent) and managing their clients (the people who hire the models).
“Developing talent” can mean scouting for new models, catwalk training, or planning specific career strategies for individual talent.
Noelle Doukas, the managing director of Storm LA, told Stylist that managing clients often includes making sure the models are protected, as well as managing relationships when there is an issue with the talent.
Good agents know their industry inside and out. Hannah Sneath, who worked at Select Model Management for 22 years, says an essential part of the job is to “familiarise yourself with photographers, stylists, new publications, models, and designers.”
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Aside from your physical measurements and features, a modelling agent is looking for the right kind of personality and attitude. Agencies that specialise in editorial and runway modelling will be interested in different body types than an agency that focuses on more commercial and lifestyle work. Often the trick to finding a modelling agent that works for you is picking one that is suited to your physique.
Restrictions have changed a lot over the years, however, and many high-fashion agencies now represent a variety of body types, from nonbinary to plus-size.
Your age will play a role too. There are agencies that represent older models, but many – especially fashion modelling agencies – are looking exclusively for younger talent in their teens or 20s.
And then there’s your attitude. Your looks are never enough, even in the aesthetic world of modelling. “I look for personality, for a soul connection, a little crazy, a lot of thoughtfulness, and a work ethic,” IMG Models director Mina White told 10 magazine. “Anyone can be beautiful, but to have drive, charisma, passion – that is not something you learn along the way.”
1. Do your research.
It can be tempting to jump at the first offer, but it’s worth shopping around to find the perfect modelling agent. Make sure they are a legitimate modelling agency by checking their website, socials, and credentials on models.com and the British Fashion Model Agents Association. Home in on agencies that represent models with your look, height, and age range.
2. Visit scouting hot spots.
Every modelling agency is on the lookout for fresh new faces – and their next potential star – and many send scouts out on the hunt. Shopping centres, gigs, festivals, and fashion events are all likely hot spots for UK modelling agents. Of course, there’s only a slim chance you’ll find yourself in any of those locations at the same time as a model scout, so best to be proactive too.
3. Snap some digitals.
You don’t need a polished professional portfolio to apply to an agency. What agents look for in an aspiring model are their “digitals” – photos of you wearing no makeup and a basic outfit – so they can see your natural features clearly. These usually include a headshot in natural light, a three-quarter shot, a profile shot, and a full-length image.
4. Submit your application.
Most UK modelling agents accept online applications through their websites. Follow the instructions closely. You’ll usually need to submit your digitals, your measurements, and your age. You can apply to several agencies at the same time, so there’s no need to be exclusive at first. If you’re wondering whether models have agents in more than one city in the same country, the answer is yes. They may have what’s known as a Mother Agency in their local city (e.g., Manchester) who can help them get representation in a bigger city, such as London.
5. Visit in person.
Some UK modelling agents offer open castings where they invite anyone to come in to apply. It’s also possible to arrange a more private go-see at a specific time; this will happen anyway if they like your online submission. This is a great opportunity for a modelling agent to see your personality and enthusiasm, which is an important factor that gets overlooked in the online application.
6. Prepare for a test shoot.
If you’re lucky enough to get a callback, you may be invited for a test shoot. The agency will have probably taken digitals of you when you visited in person, but a test shoot gives them an idea how you perform on set with styling and a professional photographer. Make sure you get plenty of rest and eat well in the run-up, because you’ll want to be full of energy for the shoot.
7. Be persistent.
This is one of the most critical factors in how to get a modelling agent. The modelling world is not only very competitive, but modelling agents are also very busy. They may have missed your online submission or have had a lot on their plate when you visited in person. What’s more, rejection is an inevitable part of the job, so it’s worth developing a thick skin early on. If you have the drive and the passion, then don’t stop at the first hurdle.