Modelling Agency Frequently Asked Questions

Q.  Are there any specific requirements for modelling ?

A.  The requirements for models differ for each division. The various divisions are as follows:

KIDS & TEENS

In both the kids & teens division clients require:

  • Very strong facial features
  • Good teeth, we do not mind if a child is shedding their primary teeth and has a tooth out for a while.  We also do not mind working with teens while they have braces.
  • Good body condition

KIDS (Infants – 10 years) & Pre–Teens (11 – 12 years):  we are looking for natural beauty rather than height.  Clients will work with kids fitting into their required clothing sizes for specific campaigns regardless of the child’s age or height.

TEENS  (13 – 17 years): again natural beauty is important.  We will be looking at the projected height of the model.  The older the person the taller he/she should be.

  • Girls:  Should the model be between 1.65m and 1.7m tall we know that her chances of reaching an estimated height of between 1.70m and 1.77m by the age of 18 are quite possible.
  • Boys:  Should the model be between 1.65m and 1.78m tall we know that there is a good possibility for him to reach an estimated height of between 1.80m and 1.85m by the time he is fully grown.

ADULTS

There are three types of models that we work with:

COMMERCIAL MODELS (TV / Print)

  • Good facial features
  • Great teeth, no gold fillings
  • Good body shape / condition
  • Height requirements
  • Female Models: as per client specifications but usually not less than 1,68m tall
  • Male Models: as per client specifications but usually not less than 1,80m tall

FASHION MODELS (Print / Runway)

  • Very good facial features
  • Great teeth, no gold fillings
  • Great body shape / condition
  • Female Models: clothing size 32 and a maximum hip measurement of 92cm (measured 20cm below the navel)
  • Male Models: pants size 32
    • Height requirements
  • Female Models: minimum of 1,72m for print work and 1,74m for runway
  • Male Models: minimum of 1,80m for print work and 1,83m for runway
    • As a runway model you need to have a strong walk

FULL FIGURE /PLUS SIZE MODELS (Female models only)

Full figure models are models that have a large bone structure but she is not overweight.  She should have:

  • Very good facial features, no double chin – skinny jaw- & neckline
  • Great teeth, no gold fillings
  • Good body shape, still the hour-glass shape but fitting into a size 38 / 40 / 42
  • Height requirements of a minimum of 1,73m tall

Q. Why do clients have height and size requirements?

A. Firstly, clients work with sample sizes. Sample sizes are usually a size 32.  Secondly, upon booking models they look at the style of clothing that will be photographed. The models need to fit into the sample sizes and their body type should be suitable for the styles they will be wearing.


Q. Is there an age restriction for models?

A. There are clients who book infants, toddlers, kids, teens, adults and mature models for their campaigns. This all depends on the target market they are trying to reach. As a commercial model, depending on how well you take care of yourself, both men and woman can work well into their 40’s. As a fashion model clients prefer to book girls between the ages of 15 and 25 and guys between 19 and 30.


Q. Are there good modeling opportunities in South Africa?

A. South Africa is situated within a secondary modeling market compared to bustling markets like Milan, New York, Paris and London but we possess a vibrant industry to kickstart fashion careers and sustain fantastic modeling opportunities.  Models can choose to start part-time and potentially progress on to full-time careers.  Most jobs are booked in Cape Town, Gauteng and Durban.


Q. Where do I start when I would like to compile a portfolio?

A. Your photos are your first impression with clients and if you take your modeling career seriously it has to be professionally done. Once you have been accepted by the agency we will assist in compiling your portfolio and getting your marketing packages activated.


Q. What are the costs involved?

A. If you are new to the industry there are few “costs to model” to look out for. We have a video on our Instagram page located at the following link @steelemodelstudio where one of our agents go into more detail regarding costs. Steele Model Studio contributes proportionally to all workshops, coaching programs and photoshoots for their models base.


Q. Education & Coaching

A. Our agency has two operating divisions, one would be the academy and the other is the agency. The academy consists of online coaching programs, together with divisional focussed workshops, for our adult division. A more personal coaching approach is followed within our kids and teen divisions. If a model has no previous background our coaching programs would be the recommended place to start. These personal coaching and online programs contribute to a better understanding of the industry, which boosts their confidence in auditions and jobs.  The insight into how clients work and what their preferences or dislikes are, will automatically give the new model an advantage at any audition. This adds value to the model’s performance, as they will feel much more comfortable and prepared at auditions and bookings.

These programs are not a prerequisite for professional models looking at signing with our agency.


Q. How do I apply to this Agency?

A.  If  you wish to apply to our agency you are welcome to select the “Become a Model” tab and follow the instructions on the page to submit your application. Once the application has been received our agents will assess your look. Should your application be successful the agency will contact you within 14 working days to schedule an appointment for your assessment meeting.

MODEL SAFETY TIPS!!

Modeling scout impersonators could contact you directly through social media and email, therefore, be very careful before engaging in conversations with them.
Any emails that you receive from Steele Model Studio will be from our email domain @steelemodels.com.
Steele Model Studio do not conduct interviews online through WhatsApp, Skype, Facetime, Instagram, Snapchat, or via any other digital applications.
Our agency will never request photos in the nude, bikini or lingerie and will not charge a fee for you to book your assessment appointment.
All agency assessments are done at our offices only and are exclusively per invitation.
Always independently verify the identity of any individual claiming to be a representative of Steele Model Studio by sending us an email through our contact page or by phoning the agency at 066 278 7530.


P.S. And lastly…some important information to remember.

Although the model industry is a dream business for many new faces it is recommended to start with a “feet on the ground” instead of “head in the clouds” approach. Because of the overall competitive environment of the industry gaining the necessary knowledge while honing the required professional skills can make all the difference in a model’s booking potential. It is also important to understand that model agencies cannot guarantee jobs to models as model selections are ultimately up to the client pending a model’s casting attendance, performance or the client’s specific look requirements. It is therefore advisable to choose an agency that do not charge monthly management fees as this will ultimately incentivise agencies to work diligently representing their model book. Before joining any agency ask as many questions as possible pertaining to their client base, types of jobs booked as well as their commission structures.

As noted, should we not respond to your application within 14 working days, unfortunately that means that your application was rejected. Don’t be too hard on yourself as you have managed to get much further than most potential models who back out at this stage.

You could also be asked to apply again at a later stage after your initial application. This isn’t a full out rejection, so don’t get too discouraged, but you might have to do some work if you want to sign with the agency.