Model Tips from On Display Men

Don't allow the fact that you are a new model to be an excuse or crutch for not knowing the industry. Anything worth having, takes work. Modeling is a job and unless you're ready to give it attention, you're not ready to be a model.

You are a brand and only you control your brand image. You should find an agent or manager that has the same career plan for you as you have. You have to clearly discuss your goals with any person working on your career.
In everything you do, be professional, courteous and on time.
Be aware of scams. Beware of anybody that asks you for upfront money to put you on their list or to train you in model techniques.
Beware of model searches. You can always attend; never sign any agreement and beware of the outcome. Realize that any pictures taken at the event are most likely the property of the search company. The most important thing to know is: a male model does not need classes! That is the number one scam in the industry; they get you “signed up” and then tell you they will work on your career if you pay thousands for their classes.
You should consider not signing exclusive arrangements or contracts with agencies, photographers or managers. Those agreements will only limit the people you can work with. Contracts and agreements with out exclusivity are important.
You should NOT start your career with nudity or artistic nudity. If that is what you show in your portfolio; that is the kind of future offers you will get. If you show fashion and fitness that is a positive direction for your career. Think about it, would a respectable client hire a model that has nude pictures that may be uncovered and possibly ruin their campaign?
You or your agent should research every photographer and/or client prior to working with them.
You must know what a photographer is looking for before you agree to a photo shoot. What looks, styles and expectations. Our agency can help you.
Work with photographers that will benefit and grow your portfolio. You need to work with many different photographers to get a diverse portfolio of different looks. You will get more offers from different clients with a diverse portfolio. Include some headshots, fashion, fitness and edgy looks.
You should always sign an agreement for every photo shoot; even if it is a TFP or TFCD. You need to have control over the future use of your images. Our agency can help you.

• For modeling assignments under $1000.00 ask for cash payments.
  
• Do not take checks (even if the amounts are over $1000.00) from individuals or from small companies that you or others have not heard about before. In these cases ask for cash or a certified check.
  
• If you need to travel for an assignment, make sure your airfare is paid for in advance and by the client.
  
• Never agree to pay for airfare and then have your client reimburse you.
  
• Always ask to stay in a hotel. Make sure the client pays for the hotel expenses including room, taxes, and meals. Always confirm this by calling the hotel before you leave for your destination. If the hotel differs with you let the client know this immediately and do not leave/travel for your modeling assignment until the hotel confirms that all room and room expenses are looked after by the client.
  
• Agree in advance on the nature of the modeling assignment, the duration and the fees. If the fees are under $1000.00 you may agree to an email outlining the assignment and the fees. If the fees are higher, you definitely want to obtain a contract and legal counsel.
  
• Keep receipts for all your expenses that are not included in the hotel charges, like taxis, limos, lunches, etc. for reimbursement by your client.