Being “discovered” doesn’t look the same as it used to. Gone are the days when top modeling agencies would find modelesque teens in shopping malls and grocery stores. Today, social media is a gateway for amateur models to hone their craft and connect to the industry. Yet, why wait for some intern to respond to your DM? Take your portfolio straight to the bigwigs, instead.
Top 10 Modeling Agencies in the Modern Age
Many of the best modeling agencies are stalwarts that were launched decades ago. However, there are a handful of up-and-coming companies that are breaking new ground and asserting their position within the old guard. From what types of reach they have to their industry connections, these are the modeling agencies any newcomer should consider.
- Elite Model Management
- Ford Models
- IMG Models
- Wilhelmina Models
- Premier Model Management
- Storm Model Management
- JAG Models
- Next Management
- DNA Model Management
- LA Model Management
Elite Model Management
Elite Model Management is a legendary agency that has been around since 1977. With locations in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Toronto, and London, they’ve got a wide reach that many younger agencies don’t have. And according to their website, they gave “birth to The Supermodel.”
Previous models they managed include Karlie Kloss, Tyra Banks, and Cindy Crawford. More recent names include Fei Fei Shun, Violet Chachki, and Behati Prinsloo.
If you’re looking for an agency that’s focused on longevity, Elite is an ideal one. They claim on their website that they’re focused on “establishing long-term careers.”
How to Apply
Note that Elite doesn’t hold ‘open calls.’ Instead, people who are 18 years old or older can submit their talent submission form on their website or email the information to becomeelite@elitemodels.com.
Ford Models
Ford Models has been representing talent since 1946. Launched in New York City, they have satellite offices in Paris, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, and Barcelona. Some iconic models they’ve represented over the years include Janice Dickenson, Ashley Graham, and Barbara Palvin.
As a legacy agency, they’ve partnered with major labels like Versace, Calvin Klein, and Louis Vuitton. It’s this kind of history and reach that makes them one of the top modeling agencies in the world.
How to Apply
You can stay up to date on their open castings by checking their website. Or, if you can’t make it to an open casting, you can submit their online recruitment form.
If you’re a hair & makeup artist, nail artist, photographer, or another artist in the industry, you might be interested in getting representation under Ford Model’s Ford Artists.
IMG Models
IMG Models is another major player. They have offices in New York, Los Angeles, Paris, London, Milan, and Sydney, making them one of the furthest-reaching agencies in the world. Launched in 1987, they’ve been churning out incredible talent ever since, including the likes of Tyra Banks, Kate Moss, and Heidi Klum.
How to Apply
If you want to send your information to IMG simply fill out their online form.
Wilhelmina Models
Named after Dutch supermodel Wilhelmina Cooper, Wilhelmina Models has been around since 1967. They have offices in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and London. They embrace not only models of all genders but also entertainers and musicians. Some of their clients include models and actresses like Barbie Ferreira and artists like Billie Eilish.
How to Apply
Like many modern modeling agencies, Wilhemina has an online application form that you can fill out.
Premier Model Management
If you’re in the United Kingdom, then you should consider the country’s own Premier Model Management. They’re recognized as the preeminent modeling agency in the country. Founded in 1981, this modeling agency continues to work with leading brands like Vogue and Loewe. They’ve previously looked after iconic names like Naomi Campell, Claudia Schiffer, and Christy Turlington.
How to Apply
Interested in Premier Model Management? Fill out their online form.
Storm Model Management
Headquartered in Chelsea, London with another office in Los Angeles, Storm Model Management gives Premier a run for its money. They’ve been in the business since 1987 and have continually adapted to the times. Not only do they represent conventional models, but they also provide social media representation and brand development as well. They’ve got their hands in all the pies, and with clients like Lotti Moss, Kate Bock, and Nicole Atieno, it’s no wonder they’re a top agency.
How to Apply
Storm Management has an easy online submission form for you to fill out if you’re interested in them representing you.
JAG Models
JAG Models makes our list not for having the longest staying power or biggest sway in the industry, but for being at the cutting edge of its changing tides. According to their website, “Our mere presence dismantles social constructs and superficial divisions. You can’t classify us or tokenize our beauty.”
Since 2013, this New York-based agency has been “removing barriers around size, weight, gender, and race,” which makes it one of the most inclusive agencies in the business.
How to Apply
Potentially join the JAG team by filling out their online application.
Next Management
New York-based Next Management has been around since 1989, expanding its scope to include actors, musicians, and influencers since 2009. They’re an international agency with offices in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Paris, London, Milan, and Madrid. Some of the supermodels they’ve represented include Binx Walton, Ugbad, and Abby Champion.
How to Apply
Get your face in front of NEXT recruiters by filling out their online recruitment form.
DNA Model Management
Since 1996, DNA Model Management has been maintaining an impressive roster of clients and models. Based in New York City, some of their noteworthy models include Linda Evangelista, Emily Ratajkowski, and Naomi Campbell.
How to Apply
DNA’s recruitment process hasn’t quite caught up with the times. They ask that potential talent send in their raw and untouched photos to either submission.women@dnamodels.com or submission.men@dnamodels.com.
LA Model Management
As the largest modeling agency on the West Coast, LA Model Management is a well-established titan in the industry. They’ve been pounding the industry pavement since the 1980s with fresh-faced models like Alix Legrand, Sui He, and Luz Pavon. They have multiple divisions, including curve and families, and have recently been involved with Vivian Westwood, Good American, and Nike.
How to Apply
Currently, LA open calls are canceled until further notice. However, you can fill out and submit their online form. They also let potential talent submit photos by mail to their Sunset Boulevard address.
Strut Your Stuff With Good Representation
The first step to becoming a working model is getting good representation. Whether you’ve been clawing your way up the ladder for years or you’re ready to take the plunge for the first time, these top modeling agencies are the first places you should pitch yourself to.
