1. Meaning of working with an agency

Before making this decision, it is essential that aspiring models know exactly what it means to be represented by an agency. Modeling agencies work to find job opportunities for their models. Once the model is selected for the job, the modeling agency takes care of all the paperwork needed, such as agreements, contracts and payment. In exchange for all the work they do on the model’s behalf, they take a commission of the initial payment, which is usually around 20%,  but it will depend on the country.

2.   No payments needed

Regarding money, you have to know that it is not usual that the agency asks the model for money. The money the agency gets is from the model’s commissions, period. Otherwise, you may be being scammed. –­– We recommend you to check our Safety & Trust page, where you can find more information about scams, fraud, and tips on how to stay safe.

3. Specialized agencies

When you are trying to find an agency to represent you, you have to take into account that not all agencies seek the same types of models. Actually, it is common that modeling agencies are focused on a field, whether it is high fashion, commercial, talents agency, plus-size, or kids.

In this case, you will have to inform yourself of all the different options available to find your modeling discipline or talent. Once you know what type of modeling you want to do, you will have to find the right agency. This can take you some time, but it will be definitely worth it. –– You can find all the information about modeling types in the first chapter of the Model Academy which you can access for free!

4. You might not get jobs either

Unfortunately, signing with a modeling agency does not necessarily mean you’ll get hundreds of jobs. In any case, it is important you know what it means exactly to sign exclusivity with an agency. Exclusivity can be local or international and it is an agreement between the model and the agency where the model commits to only work with that agency in a specific territory –as mentioned before, it can be local or international. Exclusivity could be a good option for the model if the agency really tries to find jobs. However, if your modeling agency fails to do this, exclusivity can be a barrier to take on other projects you might be interested in.

5. Payment can take some time

Let’s be honest: when we are working, money is one of our top motivations, there is nothing wrong with admitting it. You may adore your job, but you are doing it for a living, so money is important.

When you are working through an agency, payments can take longer than expected, and longer means many days. Payments through modeling agencies can take on average from 30 to 120 days. It will depend on the country you are working in and how fast the client pays the agency.

These were 5 facts about modeling agencies every aspiring should know. However, remember that working through an agency is not the only way you have to start your modeling career. ModelManagement.com offers you thousands of job opportunities from your pocket and you can use it even if you’re signed to an agency ––as long as you don’t have an exclusivity agreement. At ModelManagement.com models manage their careers at 100% and there are no commissions, which means the model receives the entire payment.

Besides, many modeling agencies around the world seek new models to sign to through ModelManagement.com, so create your account and open up to the modeling world!

The post 5 Facts to Know About Modeling Agencies appeared first on ModelManagement.com's Blog.

How can you build up your own social community on Instagram?

1. The Power of Likes

Like as many pictures as you can and follow many people with your same interests. As soon as you break the ice with a kind like on other profiles they will start to check your account and reply back.

2. Show some interests!
Ask a question in the caption of your post and create a buzz under your picture. Posts which end with a question give the chance to your followers to share they own thoughts.

“How was your day?” , “Do you like my outfit?”, “What do you think about it?” … and the comments flow has just started.

3. Quality beats quantity
Don’t share random photos of you and even don’t do it all day. If you want to build up a succesful social community, you need to keep in mind that quality is way more important than quantity. You want to look professional on social networks as well, right?

Then create your posts prudentially!

4. Use tools to get the most out of Instagram

You are able to find many applications which help you to manage your account like a Pro. There is one called Piqora which helps you to see which kind of photos are the most successful on the platform. After you realize what pictures your followers are interested about, the only thing you need to do is upload more of them.

Another application, called Latergramme which is also very useful. Creating great posts and pictures take so much time every day. This app helps you to schedule your post some days before the publication. What a good one, right? In this way, you have time to make posts some days before just in case you are busy.

5. Tell a story

Use an image and tell a story with it.

Why is that picture important for you? What happened during the shoot?

Create some emotional backgrounds for your picture and let your followers get to know you a bit more.

6. Apply to #FFSocial15

Modelmanagement.com provides you the chance not only to show off with your picture but win! Fresh Faces Social Instagram contest is back! The only thing you need to do is add #FFSocial15 to your Instagram picture and you are already a probable winner for the Premium Unlimited Model Membership and an article about you on our blog! Make sure you are also part of our Fresh Faces 2015 contest, as it’s a requirement!

Get more exposure and let’s network together. Make some cross voting during the contest and get some more followers!

Instagram can be only a platform to keep in contact with your friends but you need to keep in mind that it is also an effective way to promote your interests and drive your talent all the way up to success.
Use it in the right way!

Do you know any other tips to reach Instagram followers?
Share it with us!

The post 5 Free Ways to Increase Your Instagram Followers appeared first on ModelManagement.com's Blog.