Freelance Models Guide to Finding Gigs
As someone who's been modeling for past 4 yrs, I've developed a list of sites and contacts that I use to find modeling work. I've found these resources through consistent networking and research, and I've created this guide to share them with you. I'll also share with you how to find your own contacts in the modeling field.
Modeling Sites
Sites that are specifically geared towards models are the most common place you'll find modeling gigs as this is where there's lots of other models. The pros are that there'll often be a lot of gigs posted by various clients and photographers, but the con is that there's a lot of competition for these gigs as it's a modeling site. Common modeling sites are:
www.onemodelplace.comwww.musecube.comwww.modelmayhem.comwww.onetalentsource.comwww.freelancemodels.comwww.retrokitten.com
If you happen to notice photographers or clients that post looking for your type constantly, it's in your own best interest to talk to them and try to find out when their next casting is so that you can possibly get head-way on the competition. This is also a good idea for anyone that's posted a listing for your type. I recommend sending a basic query letter, that's friendly, not pushy in which you ask if they'll people again like "blank posting". You'll be surprised how often you'll get a positive reply.
Craigslist
Craigslist has such a broad market in the industry and outside it. It's an asset because you can find a large range of gigs, but it's a hindrance because atleast 50% of them are scams. You also don't know who you're auditioning with on the real gigs, so knowing whether or not your wasting your time, or headed in the right direction is a tough call.
Again, your best bet is to try to find those that are making legit postings and keep in touch with them. You should save the emails of good leads and go back after a month or two and touch base with them and see if they possibly need anyone else.
Agencies
Agencies will always have the best paying gigs available. If you can get with a legitimate agency, then go for it. What it costs you in an agent's fee is nothing compared to what you're getting in return. You'll never have to worry about getting paid with a real agent, or getting low-ball or questionable offers. An agent looks out for your best interest at all times. And if your agent isn't, I'd drop them in a New York minute.
Occasionally agencies in small markets will accept gigs, and then try to outsource them to freelance models via craigslist or the local newspaper*. If they can't get someone already with them to fill the job. These gigs are sometimes low paying for the agency, but high paying for freelance models. If you manage to get the gig, you'll more than likely get a contract with the agency as well.
- More of than not, these agencies will just hold an open call in order to attract new talent. Unless ofcourse they're crunched for time.
Photographers
Photographers, some pay, some don't, and for some it depends. You're much more likely to get a paid gig from an amateur photographer than a seasoned professional. The exception being that they need your exact type for a specific project, which normally means that the client, not the photographer, is paying. It's best to find photographers that often shoot the type of model you are, and get to know them. Even photographers who don't shoot major projects, but shoot your type will occasionally be able to throw you some info about who's hiring for what through their own networking.
Keep in mind that with a lot of photographers, the only time they'll pay a model is if she has a large reputation in the industry and/or if she poses nude/adult. There are exceptions, but their not the rule.
Models
Oddly enough, other models can be a great source of paid work. I've been known to refer models to photographers who are looking for someone like me, but don't live anywhere near me, and can't pay for transportation. In turn, I've had most of those models bless me with good work in return.
Again, the best models to network with are models that are close to your type. Not necessarily those that look like you, but those that are established in the same niche as you.
Industry Contacts
Outside of agency, photographers, and other models are pure industry folk. They're often the clients you've worked for previously, or a client you're looking to work for. By starting and keeping a dialog with these people you'll guarantee that you'll be the first to hear about any future castings that might occur. And while it might not mean that you'll get picked, it'll give you a better chance at it.
Niche Specific Sites
For each modeling niche there are sites that support that branch of the modeling industry. You should take the time to figure out who those sites are, and build a presence on them. These sites will often provide the best work for the niche that you're in and often the most residual work. I've personally garnered more modeling work through niche specific sites, than I ever have on modeling sites.
There's probably a lot more sources that I could list that you could venture into, but you probably already know by now who you should be talking to. Like writing, modeling is more about persistence, than talent. If you can take rejection and still keep moving, then you can make a career of it.
