How to get Scouted by a New York Model Agency
A guide to getting spotted by an Agent
New York modeling agencies may seem plentiful in New York City, with dozens of top agencies always scouting for beginner models, but getting signed to an agent is a lot harder than most people think. This guide breaks down the 3 best ways to get scouted by a Manhattan Modeling agency.
As an aspiring model, many assume that you have to be super tall and very thin to get started. While this was once the case (and still is for some top agencies) many new agencies have relaxed the guidelines for what they determine is beautiful and bookable. Many advertising companies, which work hand in hand with casting agencies, are now looking to have their brands represented by a normal customer. This is refreshing and great news for upcoming models.
Step 1: Get good photographs
Like a resume, photographs for a model is what they are booked on. A modeling agency cannot book you with a client if you do not have professional pictures. While digitals, which are candid pictures, may work to get you scouted online, a real modeling agency will only submit you out to their clients if you have the right materials.
There is no need to spend thousands of dollars on professional pictures. You can find new and upcoming photographers in your local area that charge a couple of hundred bucks. Remember, you get out what you put in so those pictures taken from a family member will NOT work!
When shooting, avoid too much glitz and glam. Many people mistake glamour shots for actual head shots so going natural is best. If you are not ready to invest in modeling, this is not the industry for you. Many aspiring models think that because they want to be a model, someone else will foot the bill to get them started. This is NOT the case in the decade of 2020 and you can ask any legitimate modeling agency and they will tell you the same.
Step 2: Find Casting Calls
Many models make the mistake of first trying to find a modeling agency to sign with. They submit out to hundreds of agencies they find online and wait to hear back. Well if you haven’t heard back, you are NOT alone! Agencies are very particular on who they want to work with, so by showing them you are bookable, you should first look for casting calls in your area. They can be hard to find at first but there are many inexpensive casting blogs online like BuildCasting.com that can help you get started.
If you have a really unique look, alternative modeling agencies scout unconventional looks for models who have different physical features.
Step 3: Get Help from Industry Professionals, Not Just Photographers
Trying to do anything alone is hard. Working with a photographer is a start to building your experience but nothing compares to the real thing. If you’re having trouble landing or finding casting calls, especially public casting calls in New York, you should try an alternative to a modeling agency.
Latitude Talent Studios is a marketing service for models in New York, dedicated to helping beginners get started. To learn more, visit www.latitudetalent.com/join
Model work-shops and schooling can also help get you started however, it is important to work with a real team that understands what your objectives are and how they work to help you get there.
Like anything new, becoming a model can seem overwhelming at first , but once you have the tools to get started, you can be on your way to starting your true passion.
