In fashion modelling, having an agency contract is perhaps the most crucial step to breaking out into the big leagues.
The best model agencies have access to brands and industry networks, without which, it would be near impossible to succeed as a model.
In this article, we will explore modelling agencies, what they are and how they work.
What Is A Modeling Agency
A modelling agency is an organization that acts as an intermediary between professional fashion models and the brands and businesses that need modelling services.
Modelling agencies have different requirements for recruiting and representing models.
The most common criteria by which modelling agencies recruit models are beauty, height, waist, hips and bust measurements as well as shoe size in some scenarios.
What Do Modeling Agencies Do
Modelling agencies represent the models signed under their umbrella to brands, photographers, advertisement agencies, fashion magazines and companies that require the services of models.
Modelling agencies do this by;
- Sourcing modelling contracts
- Negotiating compensation on behalf of the models they represent
- Booking gigs for the models they represent
- Collecting money from brands and paying the models.
Types Of Modeling Agencies
There are many different types of modelling agencies in the fashion industry, the same way there are many different types of modelling.
Understanding the types of model agencies that exist is crucial to any would-be model.
So they don’t apply to be recruited by agencies that don’t represent the kind of model they are.
There are modelling agencies that recruit almost all modelling talents while others, especially the top modelling agencies, specialize in certain modelling talents.
The main types of modelling agencies include;
- General agencies (that sign all types of models)
- Baby or child agencies
- Male model agencies, female model agencies or both
- Swimsuit or lingerie agencies
- Plus-size model agencies
- Body part modelling agencies and petite model agencies to name a few.
The Best Modeling Agencies
1. Elite Models
Elite Models is one of the biggest and most famous modelling agencies in the world representing many of the best male models and the best female models in the world.
Elite Model Management was founded in 1972 and has offices in New York, Miami, Los Angeles and Toronto, Canada.
The company is credited with creating the now famous “supermodel” status for high-flying models.
Over the years, Elite model has represented some of the biggest names in the modelling world including;
- Linda Evangelista
- Naomi Campbell
- Cindy Crawford
- Gisele Bundchen
- Chanel Iman and many more.
The company, according to its website, holds that it believes in empowering and promoting diversity within the modelling industry.
To apply to become an elite model, check out their model application page here.
2. Ford Models
Ford Models is a big name in the model industry, founded in 1946 by Gerard Ford and his wife Eileen Ford.
The couple started the business in their home in New York City and even allowed models signed to them who came from far away to stay in their home.
The company was for the longest time the only modelling agency in the city until Elite Models started in 1972, Leading to a period of intense competition called “the model wars”
Today, Ford models have diversified and represent not only models but also fashion stylists, art directors, set directors and photographers.
The Ford modelling agency has offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami and Paris. To be a Ford model, check out their application page here.
3. IMG Models
IMG Models is a new-generation model agency taking on the old guard quite fiercely.
In 2013, the company decided to hire models without paying attention to height, age, weight or race requirements.
Because of this, IMG models has perhaps the most diversified model portfolio under their umbrella.
In 2015, IMG models had over half of the highest-paid models in the world under their belt. Talk about strategy.
IMG Models has offices in New York, Los Angeles, Paris, London, Milan and Sydney.
To be scouted by IMG models, check out their website linked above.
Honourable Mentions
Other top modelling agencies include:
- Next Models
- Storm Model Management
- One Management
- The Society Management
- Kult Models
- Premier Model Management
- Wilhelmina Models.
Why Do Models Work With Modeling Agencies
The modelling industry is one of the most competitive and expensive sectors within the fashion industry.
To succeed, models often have to be scouted and recruited by modelling agencies.
The reason why most models end up working for modelling agencies is that, as an aspiring model, one is often short of cash and without networks to provide a stepping stone for their modelling career.
To be a world-famous model, one has to be featured in fashion magazines the likes of Vogue and GQ, they have to participate in the biggest fashion runway show, like the big four fashion weeks that happen in New York, London, Paris and Milan.
Achieving all these requires a tone of advertising.
Something only the biggest modelling agencies can provide by listing models signed to them on their website.
These websites get hundreds of thousands of views from brands every month.
How Much Do Model Agencies Pay Models
In exchange for listing models on their website and negotiating fees with brands, model agencies typically charge models a percentage of the fee they are paid by brands.
If a brand wants to hire a model, typically 20 to 25% of the agreed fees go to the model’s agency.
In addition to this, some model agencies charge models a one-time fee for being listed on the model agency’s website.
This fee is often paid if the said model got a gig in said duration.
Can A Model Succeed Without A Modeling Agency?
Yes, a model can succeed without being represented by a model agency. However, this rarely happens.
You have to understand that over the years, model agencies have garnered a lot of networks and an in-depth understanding of the industry.
Succeeding by going solo would require a lot of financial investment on the part of the individual, something most people don’t have.
However, with the growth of social media, it is possible to grow an enormous following on Instagram for example and charge brands directly to work on their campaigns.
A good example of a model or famous personality who continues to do this with huge success is Kim Kardashian.
Related: The best looking fashion models by country
Summary
To conclude, modelling agencies are most often the gatekeepers in what is a massively competitive and rewarding career.
To find out how to start and pursue a career in fashion modelling, read our post “Helpful Tips On How To Become A Fashion Model“
I hope this article has given you a better understanding of modelling agencies, what they are and how they work. Thank you for reading.
