A Model Who Represents Herself Has a Fool For a Client

Okay, so the proverb actually goes "A man who is his own lawyer has a fool for a client," but it applies in this context, too. Now, let's get one thing straight: I have absolutely NO problems with freelance models; but it's tough! The internet makes it seem simple enough to do your own booking, but even if you're an experienced agent (and most of us aren't), it's still in your best interest to have professional representation for a few simple reasons.

• Better jobs (and more of them) - The companies and artists that will really advance your career hire through agencies. Period. They want the guarantee of quality, reliability, and service that a reputable agency provides. And the more you work, the more money the agency makes, so they're out there every day talking to contacts you don't have to find jobs you would never even hear about on your own. They'll also manage your schedule to make sure you're making the most of your time.

• Better pay - Those better jobs pay better to begin with, but an agent will also know what you're worth to different clients and negotiate accordingly on your behalf. The higher your pay, the higher their commission, so you know they're not going to sell you short.

• Contracts - Are you an expert in contract law? Do you realize that if you don't have a binding legal contract that's carefully negotiated in your favor, a photographer or company that hires you can do anything they want with your likeness, and maybe not even pay you, and you'll have no recourse? Agencies have standard contracts drafted by specialized attorneys, and negotiate the details for you. Plus, they pay you even if the client doesn't come through.

• Safety - Agents have personal relationships with their clients, and make sure they are legit before they ever contact you. Answering an online ad and wandering into an unfamiliar place with whatever weirdo decided to call himself a photographer is risky business. Sure, some - maybe even most - of them are perfectly decent people just trying to save a buck, but how do you know that before you get there? Not worth the risk. Get an agent and let them do the dirty work.

Now you know why you need representation. In my next post, I'll give you some questions to ask and things to consider before signing with an agency.