Question (Bryan, GA):

I am a 25 year old actor/model, and have been having problems getting an agent. Is it necessary for me to book modeling jobs through an agency, or can I try and find photographers on my own?

Dear Bryan:

You can absolutely get bookings directly from a commercial photographer – without an agent. However, you do have to be careful, because in the modeling industry, unlike acting, we do not have the backing of unions like SAG and AFTRA. Since there are no set rules that people have to follow, agents will negotiate booking fees and additional charges for billboards, posters and other high exposure formats. Make sure you know how much you should be earning before accepting commercial modeling bookings on your own. You can learn more about "high exposure formats" from the marketing section of my book.