Common Questions

How can I get involved in modeling?
If you’re interested in the modeling industry and want to know if you have what it takes, please send us some snapshots, (head and full length shots – nothing professional needed.) Do not be creative, just be yourself and as natural as possible. Click here to submit your photographs and measurements to us online. We’ll be in touch if we think you might have what it takes.

Should I get my child into modeling?
You should consider putting your child into modeling or acting if they have a genuine interest or enjoy doing it. Putting your child in modeling may also help to improve their self-confidence, poise and gain valuable life experience.

What are the general height and age requirements for professional models?
Women should at least 5′7″ with measurements of approximately: bust 34 (a-c), waist 24, and hips 34. The best age for females to begin modeling is between 14 and 20. Men should be at least 5′11″ with measurements of approximately: jacket 40 to 42 and 31 waist. Men typically start their careers later then women – typically between 19 and 30. The above is typical of the largest segment of the market. Smaller, more competitive markets do exist, (for example petite models under 5′6″).

What are some of the requirements for starting an acting career?
There is no age, height or specific requirements for acting. In this industry, talent is the essence. Therefore, attending acting classes, or joining your local theatre group is a definite asset. But don’t be fooled – the biggest scam in the business today has been created by unscrupulous people who try to convince everyone that spending money on development will lead to success. Remember that hard work, commitment, practice, personality, and a willingness to learn will go a long way in helping you succeed – but do not take the place of talent.

What is the modeling industry like?
The modeling industry is tough. Like any business, you need to invest time, energy and of work hard to succeed. You will also learn to deal with rejection as part of daily go-sees (interviews) with clients who, more often than not, turn you down for the job. As a professional model, you must be prepared to work 8, 10 or even 12 hour days, not including travel time. Flexibility is also important as usually, you don’t know much in advance, who, where or when you’ll be working. The key to remember is that modeling is a business – as a model, you are in the business of selling yourself. You must keep yourself in good physical shape, stay healthy, be friendly and have a great personality to succeed. And remember, it doesn’t happen overnight!

What does an agency do for you?
An agent will arrange for go-sees with clients and photographers. Your agent will handle your schedule and take “bookings” as well as negotiate rates and other fees involved with the shoot. An agency will promote you in a variety of ways including: through their agency book; on their website; by sending your comp cards, (a photo business card) and portfolio to clients. Your agency will be responsible for collecting fees on your behalf, and, in some cases, will advance money against future earnings for jobs already performed.

How does an agency make money?
Agencies typically make money in two ways: First, they charge an agency commission to their clients for all jobs you are sent on. Second, your agency takes a commission from your total pay, (typically 20%). For example, if you worked for a client at a daily rate of $1000, your agency would invoice the client $1000, deduct a $200 commission and pay you the remaining $800. Agencies also typically charge you for mailing fees and other expenses incurred in sending your portfolio to interested clients.

Is it true that if an agency likes you ‘they will pay for everything?’
No, this is a common misconception. If an agency advances funds to a model or actor for photos, accommodations, transportation or other expenses, it is a loan that will have to be paid back. Once a model has a proven track record of being able to generate income, some agencies will advance payments on jobs performed – the agency basically pays you in advance, minus their commission. If the client does not pay, you will be liable to pay back the advance. Lakehead Models•Talent does not advance money to new models.

Should I be represented by more than one agency in different markets at the same time?
Since agencies typically operate in one particular market, to gain worldwide exposure a model must be represented in more than one market. Once you find a local agency, your agency will promote you to other markets in order to place you with several agencies at once.

What is a modeling contract?
A modeling contract is no more than a power of attorney. It basically gives an agency the right to represent and promote you, use your name and likeness, and collect fees on your behalf for a specified period of time.

How much money can a model make?
Like any business, the rewards can be huge. An established model can earn from $1,250 to $10,000 per day. The rate of pay depends on the market, the type of work being done, the level of experience and a number of other factors.

What are tear sheets?
Tear sheets are pages from a magazine, containing ads models have appeared in. The magazine cover is the most sought after tear sheet. They are important because they demonstrate your marketability to future clients. The more tear sheets you have, the more money you can make on future catalog and advertising jobs. Since aspiring models don’t have tear sheets, “testings” (test shots with fashion photographers) are used instead to promote you to international agencies and other clients.