The modeling agent’s core focus is finding work for a model. When the model books a job, the agent will get a percentage of the money the model makes. This is their commission; their income. Top agencies will help train models, get test shoots, layout portfolios, and put together a comp cards (marketing tool for models which serves as both a portfolio and business card). They will invest money into developing a model so that he or she will be more marketable, which means more money for them and their agent.

Auditions and Open Calls:
Modeling agencies are often looking for new faces. There are a few ways that they accomplish finding them. One way is to have a dry call—where models mail or email comp cards to the agency. Another way is a walk-in—a model makes an appointment at an agency and goes on an interview, where he or she will discuss their modeling experience and show their portfolio to an agent. The third and most popular process is the open call—a day is selected when anyone can show up for an interview at an agency. Depending on the size and popularity of the agency, anywhere from a few dozen to a few hundred people might show up.

To find the right agency, do your research and find out when and if an agency is holding an open call. If they are, make sure you show up early and bring a few snapshots with you: One full body, One 3/4 body, and One head shot. These can all be taken with a regular digital camera. Do not spend a lot of money. If an agent signs you, they will walk you through the process of what you need to do for pictures, as well as all other pertinent information you will need to know.