Answering a Reader Question #963

Jack Hold Wrote:

 Hi Dania, Should I start apply to top high-end agencies in NY. Or start first with the ones here in Dallas,Texas. I feel I do I have the look with height (5’10)and weight (120lbs)not really in the bust area though, a little in the wait and hips. I think I do look exotic lol and my personality is really good along with a sense of humor.

Hey, Jack Hold!

I say do both to make sure all your bases are covered. There are pros and cons to both approaches as far as trying to decide between modeling locally or going to a different market. I personally would recommend starting local to learn the ropes, however.

The upside for modeling locally is to get your feet wet in a smaller pond and build the professional experience, portfolio and networking skills that would better groom you when you are ready to move on to a larger market like New York.

Additionally, there may be modeling agencies in Dallas that also serve as "Mother Agencies." These types of agencies make it their job to not only groom and train their models for work locally but also send them to other markets and work with agencies there to book work nationally and even internationally. This would be the ideal arrangement for you.

Even if you didn't get signed to a mother agency and were instead with a traditional one in Dallas, there would always be the option to transition to an agency in New York when you feel the time is right and/or if there is interest from an agency there (having previous experience and a portfolio to showcase from your modeling career in Dallas would make you a strong candidate).

Submitting to New York is totally a possibility but some reality checks to take into consideration include the fact that you need to be readily available and financially responsible for getting yourself to the interviews if agencies in New York invite you. For interviews it is your responsibility to cover the costs related to airfare, accommodations and transportation.

Should you get signed to an agency in New York you'll also need to be ready to make the financial adjustment of living and working in the city. Many fashion agencies have model dorms/housing but not all of them do.

I would only advise submitting to New York agencies if you know you realistically have the means to make the big move and live/work there. If you think that would be easier said than done, submit to local agencies and test things in more familiar waters.

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