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Where are you
located? |
As it is truth that in
India, Bombay city is known for advertising
agencies, TV production, films, photographers,
ad film makers with lots or pre production and
post production studios, creative people, events
management organization, contest organization,
set designers, fashion designers and houses.
Obviously, if you are not located in Bombay then
you must be capable to travel to Bombay. It said
in this industry that everything is required
yesterday. So for any appointment or call with
clients, you must be available e across the
table. And you must spend sizable time for your
personal approach under the guidance of your
coordination or agency. Again it needs hard
work, time and money.
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The ultimate
test for an aspiring Model |
Well almost... Send your
photo and resume to reputable coordinators.
Set-up an appointment and you will find out very
quickly if you have what it takes. These people
are very busy, if they don't like the photo you
won't get an appointment. If they like it you
will be invited for an assessment. Then again if
you don't have what it takes they will tell you
on the spot. (they want quality models). If
rejected don't give up yet! Each
coordinator/agency is different and has
different expectations and requirements from
their models. Always ask about any immediate
physical changes (haircut, weight loss, skin
treatment, dental work etc.) and work on it for
the future. Some coordinators/established models
offer good training in the form of
workshops/courses) for local fashion shows and
print work. This can be a great way to gain
confidence and experience.
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How to get
started and some tips to Succeed?
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An
agency or co-ordinator should represent models.
The model must have a portfolio, and comp cards.
The agency/coordinator provides you with work
(That is their main purpose. It is safe to say
that they work for you!) They make a commission
on your fee (15 to 20%). Be warned about
agencies/coordinators who ask for money up
front! Also check to see if they are reputable
and genuine. The agency/coordinator should
provide you with a few photographers name. It's
your choice to get the photographer you want.
Pay the photographer for the photo shoots not
the agency/coordinator. The agency/coordinator
provides you with safe working environment and
looks after legalities of the paper work for the
job. They provide their clients with
"Professional" models. Keep copies of
all-important papers, such as contracts etc. You
may need these if you have a dispute with the
agency/coordinator. It is wise to choose the
agency/coordinator carefully so you can stay
with that them. Constantly changing them gives
you a reputation of being flighty and
unprofessional
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How to find an
agency/coordinator?
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Since
in India there is no system for accrediting
Modeling Agencies per sa. It would be best
advised for you to look up our coordinator
section. If you are outside India, please check
out the INTERNATIONAL DIRECTORY of MODEL and
TALENT agencies & schools, a book with phone and
address of all agencies across the world.
Printed by Peter Glenn Publications, ltd.
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How to approach
an agency / coordinator?
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The
oldest way to go about it is to visit them. Book
an appointment ahead of time by phone. Bring at
least 2 pictures. They don't have to be
professional pictures. A head shot, natural and
clear. Also a full length shot that somewhat
reveals your figure, a clingy dress , swimsuit,
figure flattering clothes or other tight
fittings garments should be worn. Forget about
baggy clothes! It will tip off viewers that you
have something to hide. Ask lots of questions.
Ask to see what work their models are currently
doing? Ask for names and phone number of clients
and call them to verify the information, be
concerned if they promise you work right away or
promise you high salaries. If they don't allow
you time to think about it or if they use
pressure techniques to sign the contract, be
concerned. They should not ask for money
up-front for classes or training. Be concerned
if the they claim to be looking for ordinary
people. Reputed agencies/coordinators might have
open interviews during the week, give them a
call and find out. Also you can send your photo
and resume as mentioned earlier.
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