Although most of the BA’s have many different divisions the focus of their scouting efforts is always for new teen girls. This is true for agencies all over the world. The ideal candidate is 18 years old (so she has adult status legally), 5’9” in height, and willing to devote time and effort to promote herself. Being a year or two younger than 18 is OK also. The agencies will normally then have the girl come out to New York for the summer to test with different photographers and clients and then either get her a studio teacher if she really takes off, or keep developing her until she can permanently move to New York or one of the other major markets.

Mostly all of the BA’s have “models apartments” where the models they fly into town can stay for free. The number of models who have to share a room and what type of house rules are in effect vary by agency. The length of time models stay at these is anywhere from a few days to a few months. They are not meant as permanent housing.

And now for a word about working in different countries. Although it seems like it from reading all the magazines, models are not exempt from obtaining legal working status in whatever country they are working in. Therefore it is not possible to legally simply apply to an agency in another country get accepted and start working without going through the proper paperwork. For the BA’s this is not usually a problem. They will handle everything for you. For you own peace of mind make sure and check what type of legal arrangements have been made on your behalf before starting work in another country.

What about fees and expenses? This is grey area for the reason that the general rule is that agencies do not pay the expenses of their models – except – if they really want the model to be with their agency and have to sweeten the deal to entice her. Some of these incentives can be to pay for her expenses. Sometimes these incentives can even go over to how much commission the agency charges the model. So instead of say the normal 20%, the agency offers 15%. It is therefore possible to have 3 models in the same models apartment with different commission and expense arrangements with the same agency. Of course this can make people mad so it’s normally not talked about.



Model Agents may want more or different types of pictures before they give you a decision, but spending on professional pictures before anyone commits to you is generally a waste of time and money - unless you are sure your aunt or grandmother will want them anyway.

If a legitimate agent is interested in signing or representing you then go ahead and spend as little money as possible on pictures. Some new photographers will trade you pictures for you letting them take pictures of you. That way they can build their book and you get pictures you can use. Check your local Craigs List or similar for listing. On the other hand the most you should spend is about $300.

Once you start making money modeling then you can spend some of that money on getting new pictures to further enhance your portfolio and/or comp card.