Modeling Agency

Do you think you can spot the next Gisele or Tyra Banks? Do you have an eye for that “special something” in child, female or male models? You might be able to launch a successful modeling agency. Since there are many so-called modeling agencies out there that try to lure wannabe models into huge fees and even illicit activity, you will want to work hard to set yours apart as professional and legitimate. Having a home office in a nice, safe location will go a long way toward accomplishing just that, but so will a high-quality, detailed Web site that showcases your agency and its personal, professional service. Such “down-home” touches will quell the fears of many worried parents—and win over skeptical clients. You will spend some of your time soliciting new models to join your agency, supervising photo shoots, and helping your models to build their portfolios. But you will also spend some time schmoozing with the best advertising agencies in town in order to secure auditions and well-paying gigs for your models. So plan to be in and out of your home office a lot.


You will likely want to partner with a good photographer to help your models build strong portfolios, and this may cost you a retainer fee (some of which you can charge back to the models as part of their sign-up fee with your agency). Since yours is a people-oriented business, comfortable chairs in your office are also a must. Don’t forget a computer with digital camera and photo-editing software; you may also want to design and/or update your own Web site. All said, you could spend anywhere from $5,000 to $25,000 on starting your modeling agency.


In addition to networking with ad agencies, you might also consider partnering with event planners and promoters who specialize in fashion shows. Be sure that you carry your marketing materials with you everywhere you go. All the world is a runway, as far as you are concerned.

Approx. cost of start-up: $5,000 to $25,000


Approx. potential earnings:$45,000 to $250,000+


Typical fees: 10–15 percent commission on modeling jobs; $150– $1,500 to train models (depending on your market and your experience/reputation)


Where to promote: Local newspapers, Web site, schools, bulletin boards, direct mail, participation in local events


Qualifications: Experience in training models for runway and portfolios, connections in the world of media and advertising


Things needed: Professional-looking home office, video equipment, music equipment, photography and portfolio books, business cards, Web site with extremely high-quality photos


Required staff: Yes, a receptionist/scheduler and perhaps more trainers (who can work on a commission basis)


Hidden costs: Liability insurance, equipment upgrades, TV/radio ads, business travel