Modeling Agencies Key Terms

Understand the industry by knowing modeling agencies key terms

By Nikki Wheeler

When looking for a modeling agency to fulfill the certain needs of your small business, it is important to do your homework researching agencies to find one that suits your needs. During the search there are some common modeling agencies key terms that will be encountered, and an understanding of them is necessary for finding the best agency to work with.

Modeling agency

A modeling agency is a company that is hired to market a model and find work for him or her based on their attributes and the client's needs.
Try: Find out in-depth information on modeling agencies, and what to look for in finding a good one at NewModels.com.

Booking

When a model agency has come to an agreement with a photographer or other client securing a specific assignment or job for a model, it is referred to as a booking.
Try: Read about bookings and booking agents at How Stuff Works.

Exclusive contract

An exclusive contract between a model and a modeling agency is a binding contract that limits the model to only booking jobs and making money through that particular agency.
Try: Read about the dangers of signing an exclusive contract at Modeling Scams.

Open call

An open call is a block of time when a modeling agency allows anyone to walk in for an impromptu interview or audition to meet and get hired by an agency or client.
Try: Find a detailed description of what a modeling open call consists of at Joe Edelman Photographics.

Submissions

The term submissions refers to the process a model goes through to market themselves to an agency, and usually includes sending a cover letter, head shot and resume.
Try: Have a look at sample submission guidelines from a modeling and talent agency like Marla Dell Talent.

Commission

A commission is a percentage of the model's earnings paid to the agency for finding the modeling job. A standard commission percentage in the modeling industry is between 10 and 20%.
Try: Visit Modeling.net to find more on standard modeling agency commission rates.