Very important point:
It is absolutely important to find an agency which is right for you! Different agencies in different places have different markets and requirements. Sometimes a well-known respectable agency is a wrong place for you, because your look, your style and your modeling market just don't belong there. And sometimes a whole city with its modeling market is not a right place for you.

Do agencies charge you to represent you?
No! Agents make their money by charging you a commission (15-25%) on the contracts they negotiate for you. If you don't work, they make nothing. But you need to pay to photographers for your shots and printing companies for composite cards. Also you can be required to participate in agency books. Agency books are usually published once a year.

Very important point:
Don't be naive. Even if some agencies declare that they care about their model as own children, the truth is: they will care about you as long as you work and make money. And they definitely stop care about you when you stop working and making money! There is no reason why they shouldn't. It's a business.

Very important point:
It's your job to convince the agent to take you not the other way around. Unless you have earned a lot of money as a model you are a nobody and an agent who takes you is doing you the favor. There are a thousand times more models than real agents. Even if all your friends said you were terrific means nothing. It is very hard to get a good professional agent. You must better be prepared to be very humble in the beginning.

Always dress properly for interviews with agents!
Dress sexy, fashionable, and look tall. Wear high hill shoes. Clothing that highlights your best assets help greatly. Small, open dress is a good choice. Do not dress like a stripper. Sexy is very different that cheap or vulgar. Hair, skin, nails must be done perfectly. Makeup must be light and natural.

Never!!!
• Never tell the agent you have to leave to go to another appointment!
If a good agent is talking to you stay as long as he needs. When you go to agency always reserve enough time.
• Never mention your personal problems!
• Never tell an agent or photographer that you will always remember him when you are famous!
• Never criticize your own face and figure! If even you don't think you are so good, why anybody else will?
• Never talk bad about other agents! Many agents know each other and it may go back to the other agent.

Myth: Looking at your pictures any agent will know immediately if you have a potential.
Truth: Do not expect that all staff of modeling agencies are so professional to recognize a good modeling potential from a poor snap shot.

Read carefully about initial modeling portfolios!