What is the purpose of a modelling agency?

Have you ever asked yourself what the purpose of a modelling agency actually is or if there is any point in working with one? It is an established fact that there is a lack of awareness and publicity regarding the work that modelling agencies do and the advantages they bring to a model.

There are different types of modelling agencies, however, in this article we will discuss the purpose of a mother agency. It is a company that represents models and talents in the fashion field. The mother agency is the link between models and designers, photographers, advertising companies, etc. This is valid within the country where the agency is registered and abroad. Mother agencies aim at securing jobs for their models in different countries. Whilst working in foreign modelling markets, the models are represented by local agencies with which the mother agency has signed a contract.

When a contract is signed with a new model, the modelling agency is responsible for building their work image and endeavours to establish and highlight the model’s best features. This is done through training and portfolio development, which serves to represent the model on the market. Therefore, the modelling agency has the role of a marketing specialist and possesses the knowhow of proper talent and character promotion. This is the reason why the modelling agency negotiates with third parties in order to secure the best available terms for models and to protect their rights. 

Big brands working on the global fashion market and in the advertisement industry always collaborate with modelling agencies rather than single freelance individuals. A well developed  modelling agency has a great number of contacts and clients. It is due to this that they can offer models an array of work engagements, which would be inaccessible to a freelancer. What is more, the agency ensures that the model shall receive the established payment from a work engagement as per the contract signed between the model and the agency.

As the modelling agency carries out all the aforementioned duties, the agency receives a commission and receives some percentage of the profit. This is how it achieves financial stability and is able to carry out its work.The key role of the modelling agency is of great importance to the model’s sense of security and career development. Working with a modelling agency can greatly benefit models and companies alike.

Author - Teodora Maude