The Pros And Cons of Modeling Agency Representation

Although it's generally understood by many models that no agency, no modeling career, the system of agencies representing models is by no means 100% perfect. Just as how freelance modeling has its own merits and de-merits, and also, signing up with a modeling agency can also have its fair share of advantages and drawbacks. Knowing the positive and negative aspects of agency representation is important before you begin your search for modeling agencies.

Here's a quick look at the pros and cons of being with an agency.

Pros

They Provide Legal ProtectionA reputable modeling agency will see to it that their models' interests and welfare are protected. An agency almost acts like a guardian, seeing to it that models are compensated fairly, contracts are within legal bounds, and that models are safe when on assignment.

They Ensure that you Work with Legitimate ClientsLegitimate modeling agencies work with legitimate clients 99 percent of the time. As a model signed with a particular agency, you may no longer need to worry about having to deal with scam artists or "clients" with questionable motives.

You Get the Best Pay RatesWhen a model is paid, an agency is paid, so it's in the best interest of the agency to find jobs that pay the most money to models. If a client isn't willing to pay the rate the agency has set for you, you won't have to worry about unfair compensation-an agency will look elsewhere for jobs.

Cons

Agencies Require you to Have a Flexible ScheduleMany of the clients modeling agencies work with need models at the very last minute. With casting calls coming in at the 11th hour, you'll need to have a very flexible schedule that allows you to be ready and available when required, you can have as little as 14 to 50 hours to get set for a shoot or gig.

You Have to Deal with CommissionsUnlike the freelance models, those who get the total value of their talent fees, the modeling agencies would deduct a percentage from your pay as commission. Agencies currently take out as much as 25 percent for each booking they make.

You're Dependent on an Agency for WorkAs a model under an agency's care, you're obligated to work under the agency's rules. Models have little control over how agencies negotiate contracts for models, so some of them may feel like they're being controlled.

These are just some of the pros and cons model agency representation. It's just a matter of weighing the pros and cons of agencies and deciding if the cons are worth it.