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Model Agent POV: How Do I Choose The Right Agency?
written by
Sarah Gabillia.
PART 4: HOW DO I CHOOSE THE RIGHT AGENCY?
As part of our Model Agent POV series, we’re continuing to address some of the most common questions models and prospective models ask when navigating the industry. One of the most important decisions you’ll make early on is choosing the right agency so for this blog we’re looking at How Do I Choose The Right Agency?
Billy (Stills Booker) and Lily (Actors Booker) share their perspective on what to look for when choosing an agency, why research matters, and how to make sure the relationship is the right fit for both sides.
DO YOUR RESEARCH
With so many agencies operating across different areas of the industry, taking the time to research your options is essential.
BILLY: “When you’re thinking about which agency is right for you, the first thing is research. That can be online, but it’s also about speaking to agents directly. The industry is broad now, there are agencies focused on influencers, sports, families, commercial, editorial, beauty, and more. It’s important to sit down and think about the kind of work you actually want to do, then look for an agency that aligns with that.”
Understanding where an agency specialises, the type of talent they represent, and the markets they work in helps avoid mismatched expectations later on. An agency should make sense for your goals, not just your look.
GET TO KNOW YOUR AGENCY
Representation is not a one-off interaction, it’s an ongoing working relationship, so how an agency operates day to day matters.
BILLY: “You’re going to be in regular contact with your agency; we’re sending availability checks, emailing about potential jobs, and speaking often, so it’s important that you feel comfortable with the people you’re dealing with. You don’t want it to feel anonymous or disconnected.”
“It’s a partnership. You need to work well with the agency, and the agency needs to work well with you. That mutual understanding makes a big difference over time.”
READING & UNDERSTANDING CONTRACTS
Once you’ve found an agency that feels like the right fit, it’s important to slow down and read the paperwork carefully.
LILY: “When you’re joining an agency, make sure you read through their contract properly. Some terms and conditions can be a bit tricky, but it’s important to know exactly what you’re agreeing to so take your time, ask questions, and don’t feel rushed.”
“If there’s something you don’t understand, ask. Say, ‘What does this clause mean?’ or ‘How does this work in practice?’ You should feel comfortable having those conversations.”
BILLY: “How an agency responds to your questions tells you a lot. A reputable agency will be happy to explain things clearly and answer your questions; that openness is a good indicator of how they’ll work with you long term.”
CHOOSING AN AGENCY THAT CARES
Beyond contracts and logistics, values and approach matter.
LILY: “At the end of the day, you want an agency that genuinely cares about their talent and wants to put them forward for the right opportunities.”
An agency should feel as though they’re invested in your development, not just in filling briefs.
SUMMARY
Choosing the right agency is about more than being signed. It’s about finding representation that aligns with your goals, communicates clearly, and supports you consistently as your career develops.
At Sandra Reynolds, we see representation as a partnership built on trust, transparency, and long-term thinking. Whether you’re researching agencies for the first time or reassessing what you need from representation, understanding how an agency works is a key part of making an informed choice.
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written by Sarah Gabillia.
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