GUIDELINES AND GENERAL INFORMATION
WELCOME
This packet will familiarize you with all aspects of being a model with Haute Models + Talent. Please read this document thoroughly and let your us know if you have any questions. Being a Haute Model + Talent model, there is a lot to learn in order to have a successful working relationship and your responsibility to understand what is expected of you as a model.
Modeling can be an incredible experience, but it is also necessary to understand that this is a business that requires time, commitment and dedication.
GETTING STARTED:
Here is a list of forms and items we need from you to get started:
Talent Application, Non-Exclusive Contact, W9.
EMPLOYMENT:
Models are independent contractors. What that means is that you provide a service to another entity under terms specified in a contract. Unlike an employee, an independent contractor does not work regularly for an employer but works as and when required, during which time he or she may be subject to the Law of Agency. Independent contractors are usually paid on a freelance basis. In the United States, any company or organization engaged in a trade or business that pays more than $600 to an independent contractor in one year is required to report this to the Internal 2 Revenue Service (IRS) as well as to the contractor, using Form 1099-MISC. This form is merely a report of monies paid; independent contractors do not have income taxes withheld from their pay as regular employees do. Please speak to the agency and/or accountant for helpful information on filing your taxes.
CONTRACT:
Please thoroughly read and sign the contract agreement. If you 18 years old, a parent or legal guardian is required by law to sign on your behalf. You must sign and date all areas including the W-9 tax forms. Please return the completed contract within one week and include a copy of the following documents with the contract: Drivers License (or some other form of photo identification) Social Security Card Passport (if you have one) Birth Certificate (if under 18) WORK PERMIT (if under 18 years old) In the state of California, all children working in the entertainment industry are required by law to have an Entertainment Work Permit. There is no cost for getting a work permit. In the back of this packet, there is a work permit application and procedure form that goes over the process of obtaining a work permit. Please follow the instructions and complete the application form as soon as possible as it usually takes at least 3 weeks to obtain a work permit from the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement. Work permits can now be applied online at the California Department of Industrial Relations: https://permits.dir.ca.gov/ewp/Logout.do Please have an updated work permit with you at all times. Many models keep the work permit in their portfolio so they always have it on hand. Work Permits expire EVERY 6 MONTHS You will NOT be able to perform ANY TYPE OF PAID WORK if you do not have a valid work permit Children of school age must keep all of their grades at C or better or the permit cannot be renewed Work permit information, applications, and Child Labor Law information can be found on the California Division of Labor website: http://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse
OTHER REPRESENTATION:
If you have representation please let us know at the time you sign your Haute Model + Talent contract. This includes Manager Commercial or Theatrical agent (If you are a SAG or AFTRA member, please let us know) 3 Representation by other model agencies in the USA and internationally PROMOTION You will be promoted as a Haute Model + Talent in the following ways:
MAINBOARD
WEBSITE PORTFOLIO
DIGITALS Digitals are up to date images of you that show clients your current look. It is important to come by the agency every couple of months to take updated digitals. If you make any changes in your appearance such as a new hair cut / color, you need to come into the agency immediately for new digitals.
MODELING BASICS:
TESTING:
While you are in the New Face division, your primary goal will be to develop your book or portfolio for client promotion. The emphasis will be on acquiring overall professional skills. The GOAL of a test book is to show your potential range as a print model with body, beauty, and fashion photographs. Your book consists of photographs from five to ten different test shoots. From each of these shoots, we will print one to five pictures to add to your portfolio. It is important to remember that testing is NOT a profit situation. It is encouraged that you have an iPad or tablet as an alternative to a physical portfolio. Every time your book is updated you will receive a pdf to download to your device. Not only is the eco-friendly, but you don’t incur any printing costs! 4 NEVER SIGN ANY RELEASE FORMS WHEN TESTING! If you are unsure, always call the agency. Clothing for testing is very important and it is your responsibility to bring appropriate clothes to your test. Sometimes there will be a stylist at the shoot but if not, you should be prepared. Up-to-date, trendy fashions are good clothes to wear at your test.
WARDROBE:
Some examples of key pieces to have in your wardrobe are: A tight black dress Several solid colored tank tops / basic tees Short skirts / cut-off denim shorts Great fitting skinny jeans and leggings White shirt Flattering sweater/tops Good-fitting jackets or blazers Great in-style shoes – Heels, Strappy Sandals, Boots, Platform shoes Great fitting bikini When buying, keep in mind: Solid colors are the most practical. When choosing colors, select the colors that compliment your skin tone and hair color. Fashion magazines and blogs are a great way to see what is current in fashion and get ideas.
You will receive a link to the Haute Models + Talent link which provides wardrobe inspiration for castings, tests, and digitals. Finally, DO NOT SIGN ANY RELEASES UNLESS INSTRUCTED TO DO SO BY THE AGENCY!!!
MODEL BAG:
From the start of your career, every model must buy a ‘model bag’ and stock it with all of the tools of the trade. Your model bag should be accessible for jobs, testing, and go-sees. Check your model bag every night and have it ready to go for the next morning. 5 Your Model Bag Should Contain: iPad + composites or model cards Work Permit (if under 18) Clothes 2 piece Bikini/Swimsuit Nude and Black Undergarments (including a strapless bra) Skirt & Black Heels for Runway Castings Tank or Tube-Top / Basic tee Shorts Make-Up Moisturizer Base, Powder, and Blush Current Eye Shadow, Eyeliner, and Mascara Gloss (variety of shades) Nail Polish Remover / Nail File (nails should always have nude or clear polish) Hair Care / Beauty Products Brush, Comb, Hair Ties / Bobby Pins Tampons Deodorant Toothbrush / Toothpaste *You should always have cash available for daily expenses and emergencies
BEING A SUCCESSFUL MODEL:
Appearance It is your responsibility to look in person like you do in your promotional materials: hair, skin, nails and body. Appearance, promptness, personality, and energy are what make the first, and lasting impression. Before you even speak, the client has formed an opinion about you. Your personality and materials are another important aspect to booking a job, however appearance comes first. Value good health and hygiene. Maintain your body, skin, hair, nails and teeth because these will all affect how a client sees you. If you smoke, make sure to cover up the scent however possible when attending 6 Wardrobe Your wardrobe should be casual, yet modern, appropriate and fashion forward. Be sure to invest in a good range of “casting outfits”. If you need help editing your wardrobe or shopping for outfits, ask us. Changes If you’re thinking of making any changes in your hair color or style, tattoos, or getting a new email address, mailing address or phone number, please let us know. Good nutrition and exercise are mandatory for the life of a professional model; it is important to stay active and in the best shape possible. If you encounter challenges that keep you from living up to your potential, please ask your agent for guidance. Ask your agent for info about gyms, trainers, nutritionists, etc. Make sure your measurements and stats are accurate on your comp cards and website. If your sizes have changed, we can measure you here at the agency. Ballet and other forms of dance, yoga, pilates or martial arts are a great way to learn movement which is essential for shoots. Clients and photographers like to see a model that has a great sense of movement and grace. Study To Become a Better Model Study fashion magazines like Vogue, Nylon, Harper’s Bazaar, and other European fashion magazines. These will help you understand current fashion trends and what is going on in the industry. Websites like Models.com, Vogue.com, Fashionista, WhoWhatWear.com, etc. are other great resources for fashion and modeling. Taking acting classes can certainly be to a new model's benefit, as they can make you less self-conscious, break down emotional barriers and become more confident. Acting classes are highly effective for both print and on-camera experiences. This is by know means a requirement or prerequisite for a career in modeling, but can assist those who are wanting a little more experience. Getting around Los Angeles Getting around Los Angeles can be a tricky and complicated process. Investing in a GPS system or an GPS-based phone app is good idea for models. It is common to run into traffic even during unexpected times, so a good rule of thumb is to give yourself an additional 30 minutes to get to castings and bookings. Health and Wellness VISION has drivers who are available to take you to castings, jobs, shoots. W
e will advance the cost of the driver at a rate of - $10 per hour + $0.57 per mile. Understand that public transportation in LA is not as convenient as other cities. Many of your castings will not be reachable via bus or metro. We suggest having an Uber account. UberX typically costs the same as a VISION driver, if not cheaper. This is a great alternative to us advancing the cost of a driver, because you will not incur any debt from the agency. COMMUNICATION 1. CHECKING IN It is imperative that you check in with us every other day via email. Let us know how you are adjusting, if you need anything, etc. Please make sure to: Check your voicemail and email often. It is recommended to have a phone with email access. If you cannot attend a casting or if you are running late to any appointment, call us immediately so we can inform the client ahead of time. If you know you missed our call, listen to the messages first before returning the call. The information you need may have been left out on your voicemail. Also, most casting information is given through email as well, so please make sure to reply if when you receive these emails. 2. BOOKING OUT Always give the agency notification - or “book out” - if you need a day for yourself or have other obligations. We consider you available 5 days a week unless you book out with us. We will always check first with you on weekend bookings, but you should book out immediately if you have plans. Booking out is important because to do our best to promote you as a model, we must know when you are unavailable for a casting or booking. This helps us keep open communication with a client and keep them updated as their schedules are very busy. Missing a casting or running late poorly reflects on you as a model, but also on the agency in general. If you know you will be out of town, at a doctor’s appt, have commercial or theatrical commitments, etc. please notify us as far in advance as possible. 8 3. PROMOTION You will be promoted and tested as a distinctive individual. It is best not to compare yourself to any other model. Everyone is different and every career develops differently. What may work for one model may not work for another. 4. APPOINTMENTS Go-sees / appointments are very important! It is a job interview. Do not arrive rushed. Give yourself time to enter confidently. Do not travel in groups to an appointment. YOU deserve a personal interview. Always be well groomed for all your appointments. This means clean hair, manicured hands, light make-up (unless requested otherwise) and fashionable attire. Always have your book with you when going on appointments. DO NOT rearrange your book once the agency has put it together. It is a good idea to have your book with you when you come into the agency. You never know if a client may be there at the same time you are. If you must ever be late, or if you must change or cancel an appointment, call the agency as soon as this is realized. DO NOT wait until the last minute to do this, as we must notify the interviewer. Clients and photographers understandably become upset if they are kept waiting for a late model without being alerted. Always have a card/composite with you at appointments as the client sees so many models; they like to keep something to remember you by. Other important things to remember about castings / go-sees: We are usually contacted the day before the appointment to receive the schedule and location. However, there are always last minute occasions that come up, so please be prepared at all times. When you receive a casting request, we will email you the details and call you. It is very important to call or email back to confirm you received the details and can attend the casting. In general, you should always look fashion forward casual when attending castings and auditions. If you are required to dress in a particular type of wardrobe, we will let you know in advance. NEVER show up at a casting that has not been given to you by VISION. Most castings are by request of the client. It is EXTREMELY unprofessional and unacceptable to arrive at a casting if the client is not expecting you. If you have a question about why you may not have been given a casting you feel you are appropriate for, please ask your agent. When meeting with a client, under no circumstances should you be accompanied by another individual (boyfriend, friends, etc.) If you are under 18 years old, one adult may accompany you. 9 Always remember that you are marketing yourself, so present a friendly, outgoing personality at all times. Clients will hesitate to book you if they you’re arrogant, or too shy. The most successful models possess a genuine, outgoing personality and individual style. DO NOT chew gum! Throw out before casting or audition Always treat EVERYBODY you meet on a casting or audition with respect. 5. BOOKINGS You must be on time to all your bookings. You must notify us of your inability to be on time in advance, in order for us to notify the client as soon as possible. We know there are circumstances that cannot be helped. Be sure to always call even if it means calling an agent at home. This will protect you for future bookings with clients. When at a booking, make sure to be courteous and respectful to everyone on set. Do not spend time texting or calling friends on your phone. You’re expected to be engaged and present at a shoot, this ensures that a client will be happy with your work and book you in the future. Never discuss business negotiations and rates with anyone other than your agent at VISION. If there is a discrepancy between what your agent told you and what the client says at the time of the booking, remain calm and call your agent. It is very unprofessional to discuss your rate with other models. 6. YOUR CAREER Communicating with your agents regarding questions or concerns about your career is an important part of being a model. This business can take time to understand and we are here to help you understand the modeling industry and have a successful career. Some tips to keep in mind. Do not promote yourself or “book yourself” for jobs not through VISION. If a client or photographer approaches you directly about a project please refer them to us. Please refrain from giving your personal contact information to anyone. Always check with the agency when in doubt. This also goes for Instagram, Twitter, etc. It is common for photographers or other clients to contact you via these websites for test shoots, jobs, etc. Again, please refer them to your agency. 10 As an agent, it is our job to negotiate proper rates and make sure bookings are in a professional environment. By discussing bookings and projects directly with a client, we ensure you will work in these types of settings and will not be put in an unfavorable or uncomfortable situation. If you would like to sit down and discuss your career in detail, please schedule an appointment so that your agent can be prepared. We want you to be excited and confident about your career, so feel free to express any concerns you may have. This will help us do our job better too. 11
GLOSSARY
Advertising Agency – creates advertising campaigns for clients, selects models for campaigns
Art Director – artist who creates layout for ads, illustrates model’s poses, works with photographer to go from the layout to the final photograph
Backdrop – background used in photographer’s studio manager
Book – see PORTFOLIO; BOOK (verb) – to secure a job
Book Out – when you tell your agency that you’re unavailable to work for certain days such as a vacation or doctor appointment Buyout – advance payment for future use of an image for a specific period of time
Callback – second interview after go-see; which means they are narrowing down the selection and are still considering you
Call Time – actual time you are due on set
Casting – a meeting with client where they choose a model for a specific job
Casting Director – selects suitable models to represent the layout and presents them to the Art Director and Clients
Cattle Call – several agencies send many models of the same general type to a casting session
Client – the company that makes the product, hires the ad agency and pays the model’s fees
Collection – group of coordinated clothes being shown by a designer
Commission – a percentage of model’s fee required as payment to agency
Composite Card, Comp Card, Card, and Zed Card – card with 3-5 photos of the model with their stats: height, eye color, hair color and size information. These are used to promote you and are distributed to prospective clients Creative Director – ad agency employee who determines the model type. Oversees art director
Digitals – up-to-date images of you that show how your current look
Dresser – helps models dress backstage for fashion shows
Editorial – fashion and/or beauty stories produced by a magazine. These types of bookings are for exposure, tear sheets for your portfolio, and the opportunity to work with a particular 12 photographer
Fit Modeling – modeling the original sample garment to test for sizing. Clients choose a model that has measurements that match the sample size exactly.
Fitting – trying on clothes to determine fit and style, usually prior to a fashion show or photo shoot
Freelance – modeling for clients without agency representation (this is not allowed)
Go-See – job interview; model meets a client and shows portfolio and comp card
Hold – when the agency puts you “on hold” for a job; this means the client is seriously considering you for their job and wants to keep your time available for them first before any others.
Informal Fashion Show – in stores or designer show rooms; walk around, no runway.
Line-Up – position of model and garment in a fashion show
Location – assignment site outside of the studio
Makeup Artist – applies and changes makeup for photo shoots and fashion shows.
Job Market – any location where there is a lot of work.
Polaroid – instant photographs taken by your booker. Although these have been replaced with Digital formats, there are occasions when polaroids will be used such as fashion show lineups depicting each out fit a model will wear.
Portfolio – main promotional tool for models; selects photos in a vinyl or leather casebook which shows the model at his/her photogenic best and samples of their work in the form of tear sheets.
Print – a photograph used in printed form, i.e., newspapers, magazines, catalog, billboard, etc.
Print Work – photography taken for catalog, mail order, books, brochures, ads for magazine and newspapers, magazine covers, commercial photographer for household products, business products and services, glamour products.
Producer – person responsible for day-to-day decision making on a photo shoot.
Rates – fees charged on behalf of the model Request Casting / Go-See Request – a casting that you have been specifically requested to attend. 13 Scout – person looking for a prospective models
Set – the area where the photos are actually being photographed, whether on location or in a studio
Showroom Work – manufacturer’s showcase of a clothing line to buyers using live models
Sign-in sheet – you will be asked to sign in when you arrive at a casting; this shows the casting director the order in which the models have arrived
Stats – statistical information of a model; includes measurements: height, bust/chest, waist, hip, dress size, eye and hair color.
Stylist – coordinates the fashions and accessories, checks fit of clothing
Tear Sheet – copy of a print ad or magazine editorial that is kept in your portfolio as proof of work.
Test Shots / Test Photography – photos used to build a portfolio
Trade Shows – industry promotional display of products/services; usually in a hotel or convention center.
Trunk Show – informal modeling of one specific designer line, usually in a store or small boutique.
Usage – additional fees for exposure of your image; i.e., billboards, in-store posters, advertising, etc.
Weather Permit – a location job that is dependent on fair weather; may be cancelled the day before or the morning of the job