GETTING NOTICED

The vast majority of new clients are signed to talent and modeling agents as a result of a personal relationship that elevates the model in question from the status of "one of the anonymous talented masses" to " someone to take seriously". However, if you can't swing a referral from someone the agent care more about , try to find some way to make the agent care more about speaking to you. One of the best angles: you went to the same college or high school (never underestimate the strength of the old school tie since many people like to reminisce about the alma mater and are more charitable towards alumni). other angles? Same hometown, for similar reasons; ultimately, just about anyone in common could help-same hairdressers, kick boxing teacher or priests. Let's take a look at the common methods of making that personal connection work to get you an agent.

Mailing Pictures and Resumes

This is an easy way to target a wide variety of people in a time-honored fashion and no experience is required. Realize the two downsides though: it is expensive and regrettably, all you have to sell is two pieces of paper, many agents won't care. Also, it's very easy for your material to get lost in the pile of resumes agents receive every day.

If you choose to go this route, give yourself an advantage and call the agency first and see which agent actually looks at pictures received through the mail. Why send four when one will do?

Seminars

These amount to mini-showcases with guaranteed attendance by casting directors and agents. You pay to see and hear them. Do be aware that talent quality tends to be very mixed at these things. There is a risk that you will be judged not as an individual, but as one of a group of terrible actors. Also realize many industry people do these just for money.

If you choose to attend seminars, first try to be selective about those you attend. Inquire about a seminar's reputation ahead of time. Next, choose appropriate material. Classical parts are usually a bad choice.

Managers in New York tend to be unnecessary for most agented models because the biz here is neither big enough nor lucrative enough to require two teams of people working for you. Or to take 25 percent of your pay. It's different in Los Angeles, where mos agencies have many more clients, and the amount of personal attention paid to individual is much smaller. Also, the are many more people to know there. Two teams can make a difference i those circumstances.

Showcases

These are very easy to get into, and offer you the chance to work with other models. They also give you the opportunity to actually act. But to be frank, most are just a waste of time that no one bother to attend. They can give the illusion of progress without actually furthering your career.

If you do choose to participate in a showcase, make sure the location is convenient. Midtown is best and forget anything in the outer boroughs. showcases should be under 90 minutes long when possible. When choosing a showcase, find out if anyone came to the producer's last showcase. Also, find out if anyone in the cast or crew has an agent coming. Remember, it's all about being seen, not art at this point.

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