Questions to Ask a Potential Modeling Agent

When looking through child modeling agencies and picking the perfect agent, there are a lot of things to consider. It is important to know exactly what you are signing up for, to make sure your child’s representative will do everything they can to ensure their success. You should always make sure to trust your agent and make sure that they are well-versed in the world of kids modeling as well as getting along with you and your family. In order to help you, we have come up with a list of the most important questions to ask your potential modeling agent.

What is the size of the agency?

You may know this by the time you apply, however, it is important to understand what kind of agency you will be joining and the scale at which they operate. Large agencies may have more clout in the industry whereas a smaller agency will have more time to make sure your child gets the job that is perfect for them. It will be key to understand this before moving forward so you can make a decision on what kind of agency you would like your child to be working at.

What industries do they specialize in? 

When you understand more about the types of industries your potential agent typically works with, you’ll have a better idea of what jobs your child may book. If you know you want your child to get Nike ads, then it's better if the agent has already booked jobs for other models within the Sports gear industry. These conversations are important because you want to make sure that your child's natural abilities shine and have a chance to work in the industries that are best suited for them.

What kinds of jobs do other models in the agency book?

Talking to your agent about the types of jobs their other models book you can have better insight on what they can do for your child. Do most models book print ads? Commercials? TV? Movies? These are all industries that you’ll need to be prepared to work in. If you have the idea that your child will be in movies but the agent tells you that they mainly work in print modeling or retail, then this is something that needs to be known from the beginning.

What are your commission rates?

One of the most important things to know when talking to a new agent is their commission rates. You’ll need to ask what kind of contract they use and how they affect what your child will get paid. A kids modeling agency will have specific language in their contract that can be confusing — which is why it is best to talk about this before you start. In general, agencies will get paid 10-20% of what is earned on a job. There is also a service fee that can cost up to 20%. Once you have this discussion you’ll have a better idea of what your child will be paid per job.

What makes them different from the rest?

Especially with agents in larger agencies, it can seem like many of them are similar. You want to make sure that the agent you are picking is the perfect one for you and your child. It is important to ask them what makes them stand out — so you can see not only that they are experienced in the kids modeling industry, but that they also will get the best jobs for your child.

How many models are they working with?

Agents that have a ton of models they are responsible for may seem to be a great fit due to experience, however it can also be a negative. You want to make sure that your child is taken care of as if they are the only model the agent is responsible for. Once you know how many models they work, with you’ll have a much better idea of how much time they can dedicate to your child

Is your modeling agency also a modeling school?

Many agencies also have modeling schools attached to their business. This can be very helpful for when your child is breaking into the industry. If they offer a modeling school then they will be able to help train your child, which can help them improve their modeling skills, and in turn, book more jobs. 

Signing with a new kids’ modeling agent can be intimidating for those that have never been in the industry. For this reason, we wanted to make sure you know what information you have to know before signing on the dotted line. At Bensimon Models & Talent, we make sure to not only answer these questions, but any other ones you can think of as well. We want you to feel that your child is getting all the attention they deserve, and the fit is picture perfect!