Breaking into teen modelling might sound like a big task, but the way we do it is actually really simple. You sign up to get an online profile and then we help match up talent with clients in a way we think will work best. If it sounds like the right kind of thing for you, you’ll need to get yourself along to the casting where it will be decided if you’ve got the right look and personality for the job.

Simple!

The only catch is you might come across some complicated teen modeling vocabulary which can all feel a bit overwhelming when you’re just starting out.

There are hundreds of industry jargon words so we’ve just selected a few to get you started. It is part of our job as a teen modelling agency to make sure you know exactly what you’re being asked, so we also have a full glossary over in our FAQs.

Casting

A casting or a casting call is just an audition. There could be ten other candidates there or hundreds, depending on how niche the client’s criteria are, and how many models they need. If you get selected for a casting then it means on paper you look right for the job, but you need to prove you can cut the mustard.

Recall

After an initial casting, the client might narrow down their potential choices. You’ll be invited to a second casting which will allow the creative director to decide who would be best for the part.

Teen Modeling Option

If you are being ‘optioned’, the client wants to check whether you would be available for their shoot. Options are then either confirmed as a booking, or released.

BSF

A Basic Studio Fee or Basic Shoot Fee is how much money you’ll be making if you get the job. If you have a look at our reviews you’ll see previous talent fees listed. They are set by the client, but can be negotiated by teenage modelling agencies. Check whether this includes an agent’s fee or not so you know exactly what you’re getting. This might be quoted to you as a “model fee”, “talent fee” or similar, but if you’re not sure what it involves specifically, just ask your management agency, it’s what they’re there for.

BO

A buyout is a contract signing the rights of use over for all specified uses and in all territories. This will be a larger amount that you’ll only receive if the client decides to use your image in their final campaign. They can be limited or unlimited. If your buyout is only 12 months then you will receive payment again if they want to carry on using your image.

TFP Modelling

Time for Prints modelling – or sometimes TFCD if you get digital copies – is a great way of building up your portfolio. By working with a photographer you can gain studio experience and practise without the pressure of a casting or a shoot where you might only have a minute to prove yourself.

The photographer is likely to be inexperienced too and trying to improve their studio skills and practise working with a model.

Wardrobe

Wardrobe is one those terms that is very nearly self-explanatory. The clothing you’ll need to wear either for the casting of for the job itself is known as your wardrobe. Sometimes it will be provided, and sometimes you’ll be in your own clothes, so check with your teenage modelling agency to find out if the client has any specific requirements so you can come fully prepared.

This has hopefully given you a better idea of how teenage modelling agencies works, and explained away some of that ridiculous model jargon. If there’s anything else you’d like us to explain, just ask below!