How to Become a Male Model: 3 Tips to Confidently and Professionally Enter the Industry

Many people think that being a male model is a red carpet path: beautiful photos, luxurious events, and easy money. But the reality is different. According to statistics from international model casting platforms, only about 10–15% of new models achieve stable income in their first 2 years. This profession demands high discipline, perseverance, and a lot of time for self-training.

On the positive side, compared to women, male models have more flexible standards, are not as strict about measurements, and can work long-term, even into their 40s–50s. If you are looking for how to become a male model from scratch, without experience, and don't know where to start, this article will help you understand: what to prepare, how to get noticed in the industry, how to find a suitable agency, and practical steps to gradually earn income as a male model.

Tips for New Male Models to Succeed

Build a clear personal brand on social media

• Create professional accounts (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook) focusing solely on male modeling and posing skills.

• Photos and videos need good lighting, clean composition, and simple outfits to highlight your face and physique.

• Post regularly 3–5 times/week for the algorithm to recognize stable activity.

• Show a consistent style (commercial, fashion, fitness…) for viewers and recruiters to easily identify.

Increase credibility with genuine interaction

• Actively respond to comments, send polite messages, avoid buying followers or fake engagement.

• Collaborate with new photographers and stylists to get more real content.

• Tag relevant people to increase natural reach and visibility.

Proactively seek opportunities instead of waiting to be discovered

• Research and contact model agencies directly that fit your style.

• Send a concise portfolio: headshot, full-body photos, basic measurements, height, social media links.

• Only work with transparent agencies that do not charge joining fees or require upfront payments.

Maintain physique and professional demeanor

• Maintain a stable routine: sufficient sleep, balanced diet, regular exercise.

• Be on time, communicate clearly, respect the team—these are factors that lead to male models being rehired repeatedly.

Secret 1: How to build a professional male model image

Step 1: Basic standards for male models

Understand the correct standards of the male modeling industry

• Compared to women, male models have a more flexible range in appearance and age.

• You don't need to meet 100% of the standards to have an opportunity, as the industry still prioritizes "distinctive faces" and styles suitable for each segment.

• If you are shorter or heavier than average but have charisma, you can still find suitable work.

Common height for male models

• General standard for the international market: 1m83 – 1m90 (6’0” – 6’3”).

• The Asian market and commercial advertising can be more flexible, especially for lookbook and lifestyle models.

Age for male models

• Unlike women, male models can work until 40–50 years old if they maintain their physique.

• The industry is divided into main groups:

  • 15–25 years old: young male model market

  • 25–35 years old: adult male model market

• Each age group has specific needs, suitable for different types of advertising, fashion, or lifestyle.

Suitable weight and physique

• Common weight: 63–75 kg (140–165 pounds).

• Weight is not considered in absolute terms, but rather based on BMI and body proportions.

• A lean, toned body makes it easier to access more jobs than someone who is too thin or too muscular.

Basic measurements and body shape

• Common jacket sizes: 40 Regular to 42 Long.

• Balanced shoulders, straight back, and good posture create an advantage during castings and photo shoots.

Appearance and grooming requirements

• The modeling industry often does not prefer men with excessive chest or arm hair.

• Attention to personal grooming is necessary:

  • Waxing or trimming when needed

  • Keep skin clean, hair neat, and overall appearance tidy

• This is a small factor but greatly impacts professional perception.

Step 2: Choose the right male model niche to start correctly

Clearly define the type of male modeling you pursue

• Choosing the right male model direction from the start helps you:

  • Know how to prepare your appearance

  • Shoot a portfolio with the right purpose

  • Find suitable agencies and jobs, avoiding going in the wrong direction

• Each type has different standards, markets, and approaches, with no single "superior" type.

Fashion model

• Specializes in promoting clothing and fashion accessories.

• Often requires:

  • Balanced, tall physique

  • Good posing and expression skills

• Suitable for fashion brands, lookbooks, campaigns.

High fashion model

• Works with fashion designers, couturiers, or luxury fashion brands.

• Stricter standards:

  • Angular, distinctive face

  • Standard height and physique

• Fewer jobs but high recognition, intense competition.

Editorial model

• Photographed for magazines and specialized publications.

• Prioritizes:

  • Charisma, storytelling through gaze

  • Unique style, not necessarily "mainstream"

• Jobs are often not consistent but help elevate professional image.

Runway model

• Performs at fashion shows.

• Requirements:

  • Good height

  • Standard stride, stage presence

• Suitable for those with formal catwalk training.

Showroom model

• Displays clothing at boutiques and fashion events.

• Less pressure than runway, leans towards:

  • Tidy appearance

  • Polite, friendly communication

Commercial print model

• Appears on:

  • Magazines, newspapers, billboards, advertising posters

• Prioritizes an appearance that is:

  • Approachable, easy to create rapport

  • Appeals to the general public

• This is an accessible and busy segment for newcomers.

Catalog model

• Photographed for product catalogs.

• Requires:

  • Good posture

  • Natural, consistent expressions

• Less demand for strong personality, but requires professionalism.

Promotional model

• Works at fairs, exhibitions, trade shows.

• Requirements:

  • Pleasing appearance

  • Good communication skills

• Suitable for newcomers looking for early income.

Specialty model

• Focuses on a specific body part:

  • Hands, feet, neck, hair, legs

No need for supermodel-standard height.

Suitable if you have a prominent physical advantage.

Character Models

• Play ordinary people: fathers, office workers, middle-aged people, etc.

• No need to be overly attractive; the important thing is:

  • Correct age

  • A face with "real-life character"

• Many real-life advertising jobs require this group.

Glamour Models

• Focus on the model's image rather than the product.

• Requirements:

  • Know how to control your physique

  • Clearly understand professional boundaries

• Need to carefully consider long-term direction before pursuing.

Step 3: Safely Increase Visibility for Male Models

Actively create appearance opportunities to gain real-world experience

• Having initial images and experiences helps male models more easily convince agencies.

• Can start with:

  • Local newspaper ads

  • Small TV shows, TVCs

  • Local magazines, lookbooks

  • Mid-scale fashion shows

• In many cases, you might be noticed directly without needing to sign with a management agency yet.

Select work to maintain a long-term image

• The goal is to build a personal brand, not to accept every offer.

• Avoid jobs that:

  • Have unclear image usage purposes

  • Don't have a professional team

  • Don't reflect your true style and personality

• A few high-quality jobs are always more valuable than many cheap, unreliable ones.

Safety principles when photographing male models

• Do not shoot semi-nude or nude for free in any form.

• Offers to "shoot for portfolio building" or "artistic shoots for no pay" often carry risks.

• Only agree to shoot:

  • With a clear contract

  • Working with reputable companies or brands

  • With transparent remuneration and agreed-upon image usage rights

Protect your image and personal rights

• Nude or sensitive photos, if they fall into untrustworthy hands, are very difficult to control the consequences of.

• In male modeling, a clean and professional image helps you:

  • Easier to sign with agencies

  • Trusted by major brands

  • Develop sustainably, without "losing points" later

Step 4: Prepare Professional Male Model Photos to Standard

Invest in professional photography from the start

• Quality photos help you appear serious and trustworthy when approaching male model agencies.

• You should choose a photographer who:

  • Has experience in fashion, commercial, or editorial photography

  • Knows how to pose, light, and compose for models

• Avoid shooting with amateur photographers, yearbook-style photos, or common portraits, as they are not suitable for modeling purposes.

Always sign a model release agreement

• Each shoot requires clear documentation on:

  • Who has the right to use the photos

  • The scope of use

  • The duration of use

• This helps you control your personal image and avoid future risks.

Shoot the right type of photos for models

• Do not shoot "ID card" style portraits or souvenir photos.

• Photos need to show:

  • Face

  • Physique

  • Overall style

• This is what management companies and clients care about most.

List of basic photos needed in a male model's portfolio

• 1 standard headshot: clear face, even lighting, no heavy makeup

• Multiple full-body shots from different angles

• 1 full-body shot wearing:

  • Shorts or underwear

  • Tank top
    → Helps show body proportions and shape clearly

• 1 casual outfit photo

• 1 business casual or suit photo to show versatility

• Include both color and black and white photos for increased professionalism

Build a portfolio with depth and diversity

• Conduct test shoots to demonstrate various styles:

  • Fashion

  • Commercial

  • Editorial

• A portfolio doesn't need too many photos, but each one must have a clear purpose.

• In parallel, you should:

  • Participate in open calls

  • Expand your network in the industry

  • Actively introduce yourself to suitable agencies

Step 5: Avoid Scams When Pursuing a Male Modeling Career

Identify photographers who charge unusually high fees

• Be wary of those who demand tens of millions of VND to "create an agency-standard portfolio."

• After signing with a management agency, you can absolutely build a portfolio with the right direction, without needing to buy expensive packages from strangers.

• Reputable photographers will:

  • Provide clear quotes

  • Not pressure you to "shoot immediately"

  • Have real products and clients for verification

Avoid agencies that demand high joining fees

• Standard male model agencies do not charge upfront fees.

• Their income comes from commission after you get a job, not from registration fees.

• Signs of an unreliable agency:

  • Demands large application fees, portfolio fees

  • Few or no active models

  • No clear partners or clients in the industry

Be cautious of expensive modeling schools

• Currently, there are no officially certified modeling schools.

• Skills such as catwalk, posing, and expression:

  • Can be self-taught through materials, videos, short-term workshops

• Places that promise "guaranteed employment after studying" are often untrustworthy if they cannot demonstrate real results from former students.

Beware of strangers approaching you unexpectedly in real life

• Being randomly scouted can happen, but most of the time it's a trick to flatter your ego.

• If a stranger:

  • Doesn't clearly identify their company

  • Asks for vague payments or transfers

  • Avoids meeting at an office or transparent location
    → You should stop contact immediately. Only continue if they can prove a genuine connection in the industry.

Do not share personal information for online money

• Never provide:

  • Bank card numbers

  • Personal identification information

• Some model networking platforms can be exploited for identity theft.

• Legitimate recruiters never pay just to get personal information.

Step 6: Should you move to a big city to become a male model?

Understand the role of large markets in male modeling

• If you're serious about male modeling, staying in a small area will limit opportunities.

• Major cities are hubs for:

  • Reputable agencies

  • Brands, designers

  • Continuous castings, shows, and advertising jobs

• More opportunities mean a higher chance of being tried and selected.

Central cities for the modeling industry

• Leading international markets:

  • New York

  • Los Angeles

  • London

  • Milan

  • Paris

• Regional markets still offer many jobs:

  • Chicago

  • Miami

• Each city has its own strengths: high fashion, commercial advertising, or lifestyle.

If you can't move immediately, there are still ways to start

• You don't have to move immediately to become a model.

• You can:

  • Attend open calls for models in your area

  • Submit online applications to agencies remotely

  • Build your portfolio and social media presence where you live

• Many male models only move when:

  • They've been signed by an agency

  • They have specific castings or jobs scheduled

Realistic strategy for beginners

• Start locally to:

  • Gain experience

  • Understand how the industry works

• Once financially and skillfully ready:

  • Move to a major city to expand your market

  • Increase income and career development pace

Tip 2: Experience signing a contract with a modeling agency

Step 1: Attend male modeling agency open calls

Understand what an open call is

• An open call is a direct casting session held by an agency, open to anyone.

• You'll meet with agents who will quickly assess your appearance, aura, and potential.

• This is a common way for new male models to approach agencies without connections.

Prepare for waiting times

• You'll often have to queue with many others.

• Waiting times can last several hours, but your actual viewing time will only be 30–60 seconds.

• This is normal in the industry and doesn't reflect your personal worth.

How to present effectively in a short time

• Wear simple, neat clothing so agents can clearly see your:

  • Face

  • Physique

  • Body proportions

• Answer questions concisely and clearly when asked about:

  • Age, height, experience (if any)

• Maintain a confident, polite attitude, no need to "act."

Things to note to avoid unnecessary pressure

• Being rejected doesn't mean you're not suitable; it might just be the wrong timing or segment.

• One agency saying "no" doesn't represent the entire market.

• Many male models have to attend multiple open calls to find a suitable fit.

Utilize open calls as a training step

• Each participation helps you:

  • Get used to the casting atmosphere

  • Learn how to stand, walk, and interact with agents

  • Understand the industry's actual standards

• Consider this a mandatory part of becoming a professional male model, not just a gamble.

Step 2: Participate in local model searches

Understand what a model search is

• A model search is similar to an open call but involves agencies actively traveling to smaller towns and cities to find models.

• This format helps male models in areas with fewer opportunities still access the industry.

Participation fees and reasonable costs

• There's usually a small participation fee, commonly around 25 USD per assessment.

• This fee covers the agency's organization and travel costs.

• Avoid programs with high, unclear fees or those that don't clearly state the organizing entity.

When to choose a model search

• It's suitable if you:

  • Live in an area with few agencies

  • Are not yet able to move to a major city

  • Want to try out and learn real-world casting

• This is a reasonable stepping stone before investing in further travel.

Realistic expectations when participating

• The selection rate is not high, similar to open calls.

• The greatest value is:

  • Being seen directly by agents

  • Learning how to introduce yourself

  • Building initial industry connections

How to effectively leverage model searches

• Prepare simple attire and a concise portfolio.

• Communicate clearly and maintain a professional attitude.

• Request contact information if you receive positive feedback to follow up after the event.

Step 3: Participate in model competitions to gain a foothold

Understand the true role of model competitions

• Modeling competitions are highly competitive and not easy to win.

• However, if successful, they can be a powerful boost, helping male models gain attention faster than taking small, individual steps.

• Many reputable competitions are directly linked with agencies and brands.

Only choose competitions with clear credibility

• Prioritize competitions:

  • Organized by well-known entities

  • With a history of winners being signed or getting real jobs

• Avoid competitions that:

  • Charge excessively high participation fees

  • Have vague advertising or over-the-top promises

  • Don't clearly disclose judges and partners

Benefits even if you don't win

• Even if you don't win, you still:

  • Get exposure to agents, producers, photographers

  • Gain experience performing, casting, and working in front of the camera

  • Increase your personal recognition within the industry

• This is an effective way for newcomers to "get their face out there."

Thorough preparation before applying to competitions

• Carefully research the requirements of each competition, which often include:

  • Age, height, and suitable style

  • A basic set of photos meeting male model standards

• Photos should be:

  • Clear face, clear physique

  • Not overly edited

  • Accurately reflect current appearance

Practical participation strategy

• Avoid participating in too many competitions at once.

• Choose 1-2 competitions that best suit your niche for serious investment.

• View this as a step in a long-term male modeling career, not a guaranteed "shortcut" to success.

Step 4: Attend modeling fairs and conventions

Understanding modeling conventions correctly

• Modeling conventions are events that bring together agencies, agents, and professional models.

• This is a highly concentrated environment to:

  • Increase visibility

  • Meet many agents in a short time

  • Understand the real standards of the male modeling industry

Participation costs and realistic expectations

• Participation fees are often quite high, typically ranging from 200 to 4,000 USD depending on the scale and organizer.

• This is a serious investment, not suitable for casual exploration if you are not well-prepared.

• There is no guarantee of getting a contract just by attending.

When to consider attending a convention

• Suitable if you:

  • Already have a basic portfolio

  • Understand which male model segment you fit into

  • Have the ability to communicate and work in a professional environment

• Do not attend if you:

  • Don't have standard photos yet

  • Are not financially ready

  • Don't know how to introduce yourself yet

How to effectively utilize a convention

• Always maintain professionalism:

  • Be punctual

  • Dress neatly and in appropriate style

  • Communicate concisely and clearly

• Be proactive:

  • Meet as many agents as possible

  • Listen to feedback and take notes

  • Ask for contact information to follow up after the event

The greatest value of a modeling convention

• It's not just about getting a contract immediately.

• More importantly, it's about:

  • Understanding where you stand in the market

  • Knowing what needs improvement

  • Building a network of contacts in the industry

Step 5: Proactively contact agencies to get signed

Find reputable agencies yourself instead of waiting to be discovered

• A very practical way to become a male model is to proactively approach agencies.

• You can find a list of reputable management companies online, such as Elite Model Management or Major Model Management.

• Prioritize agencies that:

  • Have clear websites

  • Showcase their active models

  • Have real clients and partners in the industry

Prepare your portfolio before submitting your application

• Before contacting them, you need basic male model photos for agents to evaluate.

• A minimum portfolio should include:

  • Clear headshot

  • Full-body photo showing body proportions

  • A few different poses and angles

• Photos should have:

  • Good lighting

  • Minimal editing

  • Accurately reflect current appearance

Compose professional, concise emails

• Email content should:

  • Introduce yourself briefly

  • Provide basic information: age, height, living location

  • Attach photos or a link to an online portfolio

• Avoid:

  • Writing too long

  • Using unprofessional language

  • Sending low-quality photos

Patience and follow-up

• Not all agencies respond immediately.

• Not receiving a reply does not mean you lack potential; it might just not be the right time.

• You can:

  • Send to multiple suitable agencies

  • Update your portfolio after a few months and try again

Benefits of a proactive approach

• Helps you:

  • Understand the industry's real standards

  • Develop professionalism from the start

  • Increase chances of getting signed without intermediary fees

Step 6: Register with a scouting company to find male modeling opportunities

Understanding the role of a model scouting company

• Scouting companies act as intermediaries to introduce male models' profiles to major agencies.

• This approach helps you:

  • Avoid contacting each agency yourself

  • Save time promoting yourself

  • Increase the chance of your profile being seen by the right people

Costs and reasonable investment

• Registration fees usually range from 60–150 USD, much lower than conventions or large-scale promotional packages.

• This fee is used for:

  • Profile review

  • Distributing your information to many suitable agencies

• Be wary of companies that charge abnormally high fees or do not clearly explain their services.

How to choose a reputable scouting company

• Prioritize companies with a clear operating history, for example:

  • ModelScouts.com

  • Minx Models

• Before registering, you should check:

  • Their official website

  • Reviews from models who have used their services

  • A publicly announced list of partner agencies

Preparing your profile when working with a scouting company

• You need to send:

  • Basic personal information

  • Measurements, height, age

  • Clear male model photos (face and physique)

• The tidier and more standardized your profile, the higher the chance of being introduced.

Realistic expectations when using scouting services

• A scouting company does not guarantee you will be signed.

• Their role is to:

  • Expand reach

  • Get your portfolio to the right people

• Whether you are chosen or not still depends on:

  • Appearance

  • Market segment

  • Agency demand at the time

Step 7: Sign a contract with a male model agent correctly

Only sign with agents who do not charge upfront fees

• Male model agents only earn commission after you get a job.

• If you are asked for:

  • Registration fees

  • "Holding fees"

  • Mandatory portfolio fees
    → Stop immediately, as this is not industry standard.

Always check the contract before signing

• Even if an agent seems reputable, you should still:

  • Have a lawyer review the contract carefully

  • Understand the duration, scope of management, and income split

• A fair contract will help you avoid:

  • Being exclusively locked in for too long

  • Being forced to take unsuitable jobs

  • Losing control over your personal image

Clearly communicate rights and limitations when working

• When speaking with an agent, you should ask directly:

  • If you can join any associations or unions

  • If you can take outside (freelance) jobs

• These questions show that you are serious and understand the profession, and will not offend a professional agent.

Prepare for financial management early

• If you sign with a major agent and start earning good income:

  • You should meet with an accountant to learn how to track income

  • Learn how to manage taxes and professional expenses

• This is a step many new male models overlook but is crucial for a long-term career.

Tip 3: Male model life: Realities and challenges

Step 1: Start job searching after signing with an agent

Understand the workflow after getting an agent

• After signing the contract, the agent will help you build a portfolio tailored to the market they are targeting.

• From there, you will be introduced to go-sees (direct castings with clients).

• Your tasks are to:

  • Attend go-sees on time

  • Act professionally

  • Maintain a cooperative and serious attitude

The reality of go-sees and job opportunities

• A go-see usually is:

  • Quick

  • Highly competitive

  • Has many models in the same segment

• It's completely normal not to be chosen immediately, especially for new male models.

The true role of an agent

• An agency cannot guarantee immediate work, as the final decision rests with the client.

• However, a reputable agent will not sign with you if they don't believe you:

  • Have a suitable appearance

  • Have potential for development

  • Have opportunities to generate actual income

Maintain realistic expectations to avoid discouragement

• Don't believe the idea that:

  • A go-see guarantees a job

  • New models immediately work for big brands

• You won't get jobs for brands like Calvin Klein on your first go-see, and that doesn't reflect your ability or long-term potential.

Factors determining career advancement

• Successful male models often have:

  • Perseverance

  • Consistent demeanor

  • Ability to take feedback from agents and clients

• Each go-see is an opportunity to:

  • Better understand the market

  • Improve your image

  • Increase opportunities for the next time

Step 2: Maintain professionalism for a long-term career

Always be on time for all appointments

• Arrive 10-15 minutes early to prepare mentally and physically.

• Being late is a major taboo in the male modeling profession, whether you are famous or new.

• One late arrival can cause you to lose long-term collaboration opportunities.

Be polite to everyone

• Maintain a respectful attitude towards:

  • Agents

  • Clients

  • Photographers

  • Makeup artists, stylists, assistants

• In this industry, bad news travels faster than good news. Male models are often called back not only for their appearance but also for their work ethic.

Invest seriously in your physique

• Consider working with a personal trainer if possible.

• The goal isn't to bulk up too much, but to:

  • Maintain a balanced body proportion

  • Have toned, flexible muscles

• Combine:

  • A reasonable diet

  • Regular exercise
    → Helps you maintain consistent performance during castings and photoshoots.

Take meticulous care of your appearance and skin

• Establish a basic grooming routine:

  • Clean, moisturized skin

  • Tidy hair

  • Shaved or trimmed beard according to style

• Your skin and appearance reflect your level of professionalism as a male model to clients.

Get enough sleep before work days

• Go to bed early the night before a job or go-see.

• Enough sleep helps:

  • Avoid dark circles

  • A refreshed face

  • Better aura when working

• This is a small factor but directly impacts the image you present in front of the camera.

Step 3: Keep your main job to stabilize finances as a male model

Understand the reality of male model income

• Stories of being “accidentally discovered” make up a very small percentage.

• Most male models take a long time to achieve stable income, even after signing with an agent.

• In the early stages, inconsistent jobs are normal in the industry.

Why you need to keep your main job

• Income from modeling:

  • Is not fixed

  • Depends on market, season, and clients

• Having other income helps you:

  • No financial pressure

  • Proactively choose suitable jobs

  • Avoid taking low-quality jobs just for money

When your current job is too demanding

• If your main job:

  • Takes up too much time

  • Prevents you from attending castings or photoshoots
    → You should consider switching to a more flexible income source.

Suitable income sources for new male models

• Common part-time jobs:

  • Restaurant server

  • Bartender

  • Shift work, flexible hours

• Advantages:

  • Easy to schedule

  • Time to maintain physique

  • Suitable for the unstable pace of a modeling career

Long-term mindset for the profession

• Don't set the goal of "quitting everything to become a model" too soon.

• Consider male modeling as:

  • A profession that requires investment

  • A process of accumulation

• When your modeling income is stable enough, transitioning to full-time work will be more natural and safer.

Step 4: Maintain physical and mental health as a male model

Take care of your body in a healthy and sustainable way

• Maintain habits:

  • Balanced, nutritious diet

  • Regular exercise to stay in shape, no extreme dieting

• Remind yourself that a person's worth is not solely based on appearance. Male modeling is a job, not a measure of character.

Prepare mentally for rejection

• Being rejected at castings or go-sees is very common in the industry.

• Not being chosen:

  • Doesn't mean you're inferior

  • Often just means you weren't suitable for that specific need at the time

• If you are prone to self-doubt or self-blame, consider carefully because this profession requires a strong mindset and the ability to separate work from personal emotions.

Maintain boundaries with a party lifestyle

• Part of the job may include:

  • Events

  • Socializing

  • Networking

• However, it is crucial to avoid relying on:

  • Alcohol

  • Stimulants

• These not only negatively impact mental and physical health but also directly affect the appearance, performance, and career longevity of male models.

Build a long-term mental foundation

• Get enough sleep and rest appropriately for your body to recover.

• Maintain relationships outside the industry to:

  • Balance your life

  • Avoid being completely absorbed by career pressures

• When feeling overwhelmed, taking a pause to care for yourself is a wise decision, not a failure.

Protecting your rights when working with a male modeling agency

Always request all agreements in writing

• All working arrangements with the agency must be clearly documented in a contract or confirmation email.

• Before signing, make sure to:

  • Read every clause carefully

  • Understand your rights, obligations, duration, and commission rates

• Do not sign if there are ambiguous points or if you are pressured to make a quick decision.

Check the agency's legality and reputation

• Ask clearly:

  • If the agency has a legal operating license (if required by local regulations)

  • If they have professional liability insurance

• Find out if the agency is a member of the Better Business Bureau to assess their credibility and complaint history.

Identify common scam indicators

• Stay away from agencies that:

  • Charge joining or upfront registration fees

  • Require payment for internal training classes

  • Force you to use a single photographer they designate

  • Charge unusual fees for makeup, stylists, or auxiliary services

• Be wary of tactics like:

  • Advertising "free photoshoots"

  • But then generating a series of other mandatory fees

The golden rule for self-protection

• Reputable agencies only make money when you have jobs and get paid.

• You have the right to:

  • Refuse unclear services

  • Compare multiple agencies before deciding

• In male modeling, prudence is as important as appearance.

References

1. http://www.askmen.com/money/how_to_200/217_how_to.html
2. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/men/fashion-and-style/10252503/
   How-to-become-a-male-model.html
3. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jill-di-donato/
   male-models-7-things-you-didnt-know_b_3893864.html

Translation: Leigh Kennedy Ly.