To the newcomer, the world of model agencies can appear alien. But the team at Talent Management – an agency that’s been connecting models to business for over two decades – knows all too well the differences between model companies, and the importance of understanding this as a new model.

So, having recently seen a rise in online modelling companies claiming to provide an array of ‘essential modelling services’ without actually finding models work, we recommend reading on for an explanation of the differences between a showcase agency and an employment agency…

A Showcase Agency

With catchy tag lines and engaging websites, amateur models are easily drawn in so-called model agencies without realising that all they’re buying into is a ‘showcase’ opportunity, advice, or flashy photo shoots, which of course are followed by expensive photographs.

While some businesses make it perfectly clear they’re not an actual agency, others conceal the truth in their small print. Many are surprised to find out just how many modelling companies are not real model agencies, in that they don’t find you work.

A few popular non-agency companies include Models Connect, Star Now and UK Models.

UK Models, for example, admits: “We do not find models work, we provide all the services you need to establish which type of modelling best suits you and what type of agency would be the most appropriate.”

Similarly, Models Connect says: “Models Connect Ltd does not actively seek work for members, only gives access to modelling and casting agencies to use the website and search for new faces.”

These businesses and many more admit that they are not modelling employment agencies and therefore cannot legally find you work. Others, unfortunately, don’t make this so clear, perhaps hiding the fact in their small print.

A Modelling Employment Agency

So what exactly makes a modelling employment agency? Here is an easy dictionary definition: A modelling employment agency is a company whose business it is to help models find work and help employers to find the models they need.

Talent Management differs from the majority of modelling companies out there, having been successfully placing many of our men, women, and child models in paid, part-time modelling work for more than 20 years.

Being an actual employment agency means that we are Government-regulated, regularly inspected by HM Government’s Employment Agency inspectorate, Business Innovation and Skills (BIS), with legal responsibilities to protect our models’ best interests.

We not only actively find our models work, but we receive enquiries every day from clients looking to find models, all of which, most importantly, are extensively vetted. While this is something a showcase agency fails to provide, vetting meaning yours or your child’s safety is never put at risk. Moreover, having representation with an agency provides convenience, industry expertise, and professionalism when presenting yourself in the industry.

As an employment agency, there are very strict dos and don’ts, with big penalties for getting it wrong. Our models and clients know this and that’s why after 20 years of being in the business, we are known for saying what we do and doing what we say.

We supply our models daily to the film, TV, photographic, advertising and fashion industries; these are people just like you. Above are shots from just a couple of recent jobs our models have enjoyed, and on our success stories page, there are1000s of quotes from models who have enjoyed assignments with Talent Management.

However, with all explanations aside, we say “it depends what you’re looking for” – advice, photos, a showcase, or an employment agency who’ll look to find you work?

If you’re still undecided as to what’s best for you, you can always come and meet us at our UK Head Office. Or, if you’d like to have a chat, fill out a ‘New Model’ registration with us and talk to one of our experienced ‘New Model Support’ team members on 0844 334 0000.