Model Advice - Don't learn the Hard Way

Model Advice

Breaking into the modelling world can be challenging and involves a lot of work and thick skin in order to get to where you want to be, with there being so many model agencies around and many asking you for upfront payments or to purchase portfolio’s over £500 it’s time to say NO.
You should never pay a model agency upfront to join their books, If a model agency is to want you on their books they will take a commission from paid work which is bought in by the agency as they will be getting you the work and NEVER sign anything without understanding the agreements which is being processed.

It’s also important that you NEVER let anyone pressure you into doing anything you are uncomfortable with, before attending castings know which type of model you would like to become which will then help you focus and get where you want to be.
If you are to take a serious interest in your modelling career it is important that you are prepared to get professional images done which could be by a professional photographer and cost around a maximum of £100 for a full portfolio of images which you would own the copyright too, a student photographer may do these for free for their portfolio and this is acceptable too.

Child Modelling:Any person under the age of 16 or in full time education must be licensed to work in modelling or entertainment industries. Reputable agencies which represent children are aware of and adhere to Child Licensing Laws and will organize this for you when needed, At Dream Street Models & Events this will be discussed with a parent or guardian prior to the first casting / paid work is received.

Contact Numbers:It’s vital that when working with clients or as a freelance model you have a separate contact number to give out for safety precautions, not everyone you meet is trustworthy. Always check references and if you feel something isn’t right then it probably isn’t.

Chaperons: When attending shoots and castings it’s important that you take someone with you especially if it’s the first time you are meeting an agent or on a job, Photographers and agents who ask you to attend alone should be kept away from as a reputable company would be happy for you to bring along a friend and talk you both through everything to give you a clear understanding on what is expected. Don’t attend alone and make sure you keep your feet on the ground and be well aware of everything which is going on around you.

Sizes and Photos:It’s vital that you are to keep an agent up to date with your current look even if this is something simple as to changing your hair color, it’s vital that the agency are aware of this as it may mean you are suitable / not suitable for certain jobs.

Restrictions:Many agencies take on Models from 5’7 female and 6’0+ Male as a requirement, Petite models are usually from a minimum of 5’2 female and 5’7 for a male. Plus size varies from anything from a 14+ however at the Dream Street Group we have strong ethical beliefs in which we stand by when representing models, Always check before applying to an agency their restrictions.