The world of modeling comes with highly competitive opportunities with the increasing number of modeling agencies in the world. If you want to grow, be successful, and eventually be one of the top models internationally, you first need to have all the resources you need. These mainly include a portfolio and client opportunities.
The thing is, if you’re a standalone freelance model that has just started, it can be hard to find clients. This applies no matter how good your portfolio is. It’s because you need to have connections, and you can’t get these if you don’t have an affiliation with credible parties.
This is where a modeling agency comes in. They will serve as a bridge between you and potential clients and, thus, more opportunities. Your career path will rely largely on how your agency performs.
That said, if you typed in “modeling agencies near me,” you’re in the right place. Today, we’ll walk you through the five best modeling agencies globally up to date and how you can apply for them.
1. Women Management
Location: New York, Los Angeles, Paris, Milan
Women Management has been in the modeling field since 1988. They stand for diversity and inclusivity, which means that, unlike traditional agencies, they don’t lock their model hunt to societal beauty standards. They have worked with numerous high-end brands, including Dior, Prada, Gucci, Burberry, and more.
Note that this agency is exclusive to women, so you may have to look for other companies if you identify as any other gender.
To apply, simply go to the official website of Women Management, fill-up the form, and attach three photos for initial screening.
2. New York Model Management
Location: New York
New York Model Management was established in 1985. They are open to women, men, and children. Their main goal is to constantly break through fashion and style and be two steps ahead of trends.
Models in NY Model Management have been a regular sight in brands like Gucci, Fendi, Acne Studios, and Celine. It is also home to renowned fashion icons like Amy Wesson, Olga Sherer, and Megan Collison.
If you want to apply, you need to go to the agency’s official website and opt for either open calls or email submissions. You will also need to adhere to certain requirements for pictures, height, and other demographic-related factors.
3. Next Management
Location: New York, Paris, Milan, London, Miami, Los Angeles
Next Models Management was founded in 1989 and is home to models, actors, and musicians. The company focuses on building creativity, recognition, and diversity, apart from just business opportunities. Undoubtedly, they’re one of the most popular and successful modeling agencies in the whole world.
The agency at hand has worked with several luxury brands like Alexander McQueen, Prada, Fendi, and MaxMara.
Considering that Next Management is one of the top agencies, expect that they have relatively high standards for applicants. If you’re interested in being a part of their team, you need to fill-up the form on their website. You will also be asked to attach your photos for screening.
4. Elite Model Management
Location: Paris, New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, Miami, Philippines, Thailand
Elite Model Management has been around since the early 1970s, which means that they can be considered as one of the veterans in the industry. This agency is the definition of going global, considering that they have a lot more branches compared to other famous companies.
Not only that, but Elite is also one of the best when it comes to inclusivity and diversity. They are open to breaking unconventional traditions, such as having transgender people walk the runway.
Some of the most famous brands they have worked with include Saint Laurent, Celine, Versace, and Chanel. It’s also the agency of global models like Naomi Campbell and Cindy Crawford.
Signing up to become a model for Elite may take longer than others. You need to fill up the form they provided, consisting of details about demographics and brief interview questions, and attach six pictures according to their requirements.
5. IMG Models
Location: New York, Los Angeles, London, Milan, Paris, Sydney
The last on our list is considered one of the top choices of the majority of aspiring models. IMG Models is also a renowned modeling agency despite starting in the early 2000s.
IMG is also included in the most popular agencies because of the icons included in their line. Take the Hadid sisters, Bella and Gigi, Hailey Bieber, and Lily Aldrige as examples. As for brands, the agency’s models are often seen in Gucci, Celine, Versace, and Burberry.
Another distinct quality of IMG Models is its focused view on education. They offer camps and mentorship courses mainly revolving around fashion and its industry. To apply, you can start with the said camps or directly submit requirements on the agency’s official site. They need a fully-accomplished form, photos, and videos.
Summary
Easily said, the modeling agency that you’ll work with will be your ultimate weapon against the fierce competition in the industry. Not only will you be provided with more modeling opportunities, but you’ll also be able to be guided by professionals like agents and models who have long been in the field.
Keep in mind that looking for the best agency should not only rely on popularity but also on how perfect they will be for your needs and goals. Take factors like an agent’s offers, coverage, culture, and environment into account. You shouldn’t also limit your search to just nearby modeling agencies since doing so will highly narrow down your choices.
