"Focus In" Focusing on Florida's Film, Television & Arts Industry

Published- January 2003 By Cristina DeHart

In response to Rick Pamlin's article titled "Sex, Lies, Cash and Casting" in December's issue I would like go further from acting into the modeling industry. Having spent the past eight years in New York City as a professional model I have had only good experiences through legitimate agencies and their affiliates. But a whole different world exists outside the industry for innocent young girls, boys and their families who dream of a career in modeling. Thousands of dollars are spent for the opportunity of "meeting agents" at "model searches" for a so-called "great opportunity". Unfortunately young hopefuls are not aware that these searches include up to 300 participants with only two to three unknown agents in attendance. They are enticed by being told they have "the look" by those who are not or ever have been in the modeling industry. This abuse of the innocent is widespread and abundant. But why does this continue? Most of those who attend these model searches have no idea how to approach these agencies independently. And when they do they are offered expensive classes, pictures, composites and/or Internet sites with the "promise" of future work to lessen the blow of cash. They have no idea how to secure an agent, find a quality photographer, build a portfolio and most important- avoid a scam!   What actually happens if an agent in NYC, Miami or LA chooses you for representation? Getting an agent is only the beginning of a long journey of test photos, castings and relocating to that market.    Six months ago I was actually approached by one of these "searches" to work for them attending their "conferences"- seventeen a year! Their intention was to use my image to entice innocent consumers into attending their search. I declined. But their invitation really made me think. How can I use my experience in a productive and beneficial way that educates these modeling potentials before they are taken? This is when I began "the Agency Forum"- for models by models. It is comprised of a panel of professional models whose objective is to educate industry hopefuls on every aspect of  the modeling profession. It is not only for fashion model hopefuls. The panel extends further to every division such as commercial print (for all ages), beauty, runway, editorial, fit, showroom, parts, promotions etc. We know because we have done them all.   Many actors I know in NYC and L.A. supplement their income with commercial print work. This division of modeling is open to everyone with no restrictions and pays up to $250.00 per hour excluding additional usage or buyout fees. You can also present products through narration and demonstration at convention centers throughout the country paying up to $1,200 per day. The agencies associated with the aforementioned bookings are scattered throughout the country and often book in your local area off your headshot, resume and/ or demo.   It is this type of quality information that is lacking throughout the industry. It is papers like "in focus" that make it available to the public and is much appreciated. The Agency Forum joins in that effort by trying to reach as many industry hopefuls as possible before they are taken advantage of. Our goal is educate consumers therefore making the "scams" of today a thing of the past.   I would like to offer some tips for those interested in pursuing a career in modeling or the entertainment industry. •         Steer clear of modeling companies that require you to use a specific photographer. You should always compare fees and work quality of several. •         Be suspicious if a company requires an up-front fee to serve as your agent. Their percentage should only come from the bookings they obtain for you. •         Be cautious if a school has a special referral relationship with a specific modeling agency. The two could be splitting your fees, or the agency may not be suited to your needs. •         Avoid high-pressure sales tactics. Never sign a document without reading and understanding it first. In fact, ask for a blank copy of the contract to take home and review with someone you trust. If the company refuses, walk away. •         Be skeptical of local companies claiming to be the "biggest" agency or a "major player" in the industry, especially if you live in a small city or town. If you think you've been scammed by a bogus model or talent scout, contact your local consumer protection agency, state Attorney General, or Better Business Bureau. They're in your local directory assistance. The more who complain will eventually put them out of business! If you are interested in a career in the modeling or entertainment industry I suggest you determine what division within the industry best suits you. Then locate the market where that work is heavily produced. For example, while New York City is known for their fashion modeling, Washington/ Baltimore is known for industrials and training films, then Miami is known for a mixture of fashion and commercial print, etc. In addition, more quality work is moving out of  NYC and L.A. to smaller cities so companies can achieve lower costs in our current economy. I strongly recommend working in smaller markets to obtain experience before forging ahead to larger markets where competition is fierce.   You can log onto our site @ www.theagencyforum.com for more information about our seminar. The next is being held at the Hard Rock Hotel Universal the weekend of February 22 and 23rd.  Attendance is limited...