You hear that top models have a great modeling agency, and you think, "If I can only sign with a modeling agency I will be set." But what exactly is a modeling agency and what does it do? This is not an easy question to answer. A modeling agency will operate with small businesses with no two agencies working the same. A lot depends on the market in which a modeling agency operates and the owner(s) and agency's personnel. The other problem with a certain modeling agency might be that they could be rip off or scam artists. You should be very careful before signing with any modeling agency.

Let's look at what a modeling agency might be at its best and worst and what they can do for your career as a model. A modeling agency will help to find models work and work as representatives or agents for the models. As an agent they seek and negotiate contracts of employment for the model or talent who is an independent business. For finding the model work, the modeling agency will take a percent of what the model makes. This could be anywhere from 10% to 33%. In some states a modeling agency is considered to be private employment agencies and must be licensed by the state. That sounds fairly simple and straightforward, but it is amazing how it can vary.

Hosting a modeling agency portfolio on portals is important so your website doesn't get lost among other web sites like yours. You will have to spend lots of time promoting your modeling agency so it can be found by clients. Internet promotion includes an independent search and emailing to potential clients and target audience on a daily basis.

Contrary to what has been said when a modeling agency submits its portfolios to specialized portals, there is a possibility to attracting clients who use the services of other modeling agency websites to look for fresh faces. Submitting your modeling agency portfolio to modeling websites gives you the possibility to benefit from additional services they offer such as news, model and model agency databases, galleries, mail distribution, etc.