* Basic Black Heels - Stillettos
* Casual Shoes
* Sandals
* Basic Black Dress
* BlueJeans & White Tank
* Head Scarf
* Drop Cloth
* Static Guard
* Lint Remover
* Small Sewing Kit
* Make-up Kit - Lip Balm, Tweezers,Liquid Foundation, Moisturizer, Face Powder, Waterproof Mascara, Natural Lip Color, Neutral Eye Shadow, Concealer Stick, Visine
* Wetnaps
* Small Mirror
* Razor
* Deodorant
* Toothbrush
* Black, Beige & Nude Nylons
* Reading Material
* Water
* City Map
* Portfolio & Comp Cards

Male Models’ Bag

* Black Leather Shoes
* Plain White T-Shirt
* Casual Shoes
* Sandals
* BlueJeans & White Tank
* Head Scarf
* Drop Cloth
* Static Guard
* Lint Remover
* Small Sewing Kit
* Make-up Kit - Lip Balm, Tweezers, Liquid Foundation, Moisturizer, Concealer Stick, Visine
* Wetnaps
* Small Mirror
* Razor
* Deodorant
* Toothbrush
* Socks-Black, White & Beige
* Reading Material
* Water
* City Map
* Portfolio & Comp Cards

Physical Attributes

An aspiring model should be at least 5′7″ tall with clear skin, beautiful hair, straight teeth and a toned and well-proportioned body.

Ambition

You will never achieve your goals and objectives if you sit around and wait for them to happen. Those who go after what they want succeed. Of the thousands of models who try to enter the modeling industry each year, many quit after a few months. No model is made overnight. It takes time, effort and money to start a modeling career, just as it does for any business. Grooming, proper diet, exercise and the creation of an image through clothing, makeup and hairstyling are necessary investments in the model’s product-herself. She also has to find an agent and to start learning the skills of modeling. The process of putting together a portfolio is also time consuming, not to mention expensive. However, models must have one in order to work. Rejection is very common, especially in the beginning of a modeling career. Success really depends upon how much it is wanted and how wisely time, money and effort are invested.

Charisma

A model who rises above the crowd has a certain sparkle that sets her apart from others and gets her noticed. She has a strong individual style.

Smile

A brilliant smile is part of a model’s style. Straight white teeth are important. Those with unattractive teeth should seek the assistance of a dental professional. Orthodontics and braces have a lasting impact on one’s smile and facial structure. Of course, daily brushing and flossing after meals will help to maintain your teeth’s whiteness as well as keep your teeth and gums healthy. Ignoring your teeth will result in plaque accumulation that leads to discoloration, cavities, red puffy gums and mouth odor.

Posture

Posture is important to a model not only because clothes will hang properly, free of bulges and wrinkles, but also because excellent posture projects self-confidence and inner strength, qualities that naturally attract others. Clients know that their customers will buy their products if they see a confident-looking model appearing to enjoy them. Achieving excellent posture takes an ongoing commitment to sit, stand and walk properly. Check yourself frequently. You chin should be parallel to the floor, shoulders held down and pushed comfortable back and your pelvis tilted forward, eliminating sway back and fattening the stomach. Regular exercise improves posture and strengthens the muscles necessary to maintain the body’s alignment.

Personality

Having a warm and outgoing personality can make a break a career. If you are beautiful on the outside but ugly on the inside, you will not succeed. Too much competition exists. Beautiful models and talented actors are in abundance in major markets. What separates those who work from those who don’t? A special “sparkle,” a warmth of personality will get you noticed and booked. In addition, if you are fun, non-complaining, and easy to work with on a job, your chances of getting re-booked are high.

Intelligence

Angie’s Models & Talent Inc., will not work with students who have below 70% or a “B” average in school, unless extenuating circumstances exist. If you are a great student, it usually means that… you do your homework, go to class regularly, get along with your teachers, and have discipline. To an Agent, they want to know, if you are booked on a job, that you will be dependable, show up on time, get along with your employers, and be prepared. Good students make good models and actors/actresses. If you are an under-achiever, work harder. The myth of the “empty headed model” is a myth indeed. Models and actors/actresses are smart, and they are achievers.

Family Support

Angie’s Models & Talent Inc., is the only agency in Ottawa of its type in the world that is completely family-oriented and family-owned. As a family business, we feel your best chance of success in modeling or talent lies within your own desire built on a foundation of family support. How much does your family want you do this? Do they care enough to understand the business with you? If you are a teen, will a parent or guardian travel with you to out-of-town auditions/castings and bookings? That’s what we recommend. A parent’s place in the modeling and talent industry is for transportation, safety, and moral support.

On the other hand, the industry has no room for “stage parents.” Your children or teens must want this opportunity themselves. They must be able to speak for themselves and interview without prodding.

Desire

How much do you want to do this? How strong is your desire and determination? Desire is the only attribute of success that you cannot do without. Desire, alone, is the largest determinant of your ultimate success. How many actors were turned down for jobs repeatedly before they got their “big break?” Supermodels have also been rejected. Lauren Hutton had a space between her teeth, Cindy Crawford had a mole on her face. Tyra Banks had too many curves. Angie’s 1st success story model - Courtney Miller, was too short. If they had not had the desire and determination to keep trying, they would not have succeeded.

Appearance for Models and Talent for Entertainers

Both appearance and talent have one thing in common; they are largely God-given. God, your parents, and genetics gave you a striking face, a handsome figure, or the ability to act, sing or dance. Of course, your gift should be honed and practiced. Great athletes have a gift, too. But none of these gifts are valuable without the hard work to perfect them. Interestingly, we have all seen models who were not attractive, actors on TV that cannot act, and singers on MTV that cannot really sing. So, appearance & talent is highly desired and can open a door, but it’s not 100% necessary.

Please know that most models and talent are achievers in many areas. Many are athletes, scholars, linguists, musicians, and community, school, and business leaders. The more skills you can “bring to the table,” the better.

Healthy Lifestyle

Proper diet, exercise, hygiene and emotional well being are reflected in a model’s skin, hair, figure and attitude and allow her to be able to handle the pressures and demands of her work.

Nutrition:

It is unfortunate that many models believe that they have to starve themselves to remain thin or to lose weight. Models are so busy and their schedules so demanding, that well-balanced meals are necessary for them to have the energy and nourishment to do their jobs. Proper nutrition is important. Many of us live in fast-food restaurants and rather than avoiding junk food altogether, we should be aware of what we are eating and make smart choices.

Exercise:

Models should consider exercising to increase endurance and muscle tone, to relieve stress and to improve their emotional well-being. Modeling often involves long hours of very strenuous hard work and if a model is not fit, she/he will not be able to handle it. Try different types of exercise and sports and stick with the ones that you enjoy the most.

Personal Hygiene:

You do not know how embarrassing it is to show up at a casting and have clients ask you to try on a bathing suit or lingerie after you realize that you haven’t waxed your bikini line in a month. The horrendous feeling of having to go out and show them the garment leaves you weak, as you know you have the hairiest legs you’ve ever had in your life and you just don’t want another living soul to see them. If you ever endure that, it will never ever happen again, because whenever you have any kind of casting in the future, the first thing that comes to mind is the memory of that horrifying day you forgot to wax your legs. Every hair on your body will be gone. You avoid ever having to go through that by being prepared. Dirty nails, greasy hair, body odor or unwanted hair is unacceptable for a model. Bathing regularly and using the appropriate personal products helps to ensure that you are clean and fresh at all times. Models cannot afford to soil a garment they have been paid to wear. If you perspire a lot, use underarm dress shields. Avoid perfume and scented deodorants. The smell of these products may linger in the garment. Tampons must be used with thin panti-liners.

Sleep:

It is a model’s responsibility to make sure that she/he gets an adequate amount of sleep so as not to show up at an assignment looking red-eyed and tired. While the requirements differ for everyone, the average person needs eight hours of sleep every night. Before an assignment, make sure you get to bed early!

Party, Party, Party

If models get caught up in staying out all night or in using drugs and alcohol, they will find not only that their appearance will suffer, but that their reputations may precede them. A model I worked with several years ago gave up everything because she partied too much. She had an amazing look and the potential for a very successful modeling career. The night before she was to do a $20,000 shoot for a major company’s advertising campaign, she stayed out late drinking. The next morning, having slept through her shooting time, her agent woke her only to be told “I am tired, I was out late and I don’t feel like working today.” She was fired from the campaign and asked to leave the agency. Even today she has not been able to find stable representation.

In the morning and before going to bed, your skin should be cleaned thoroughly with soaps, milks or creams that are non-alkaline and are in accordance with your skin’s natural PH level. Use gentle upward strokes. Do Not Pull or Rub!

Step 2 - Toning

Toning removes any traces of chemicals, makeup, dirt and bacteria left on your face after cleansing. It closes the pores leaving your skin feeling soothed and refreshed. Avoiding the eye area, gently apply toner with cotton balls using light upward strokes.

Step 3 - Moisturizing

Moisturizing protects and hydrates all skin types, preventing dryness and flakiness, and helps to minimize lines.

Exfoliating

Exfoliating once or twice a week with facial masks, grains or scrubs sloughs off dead skin cells, excess dirt and impurities and stimulates blood circulation.

Deep Cleansing

With their skin undergoing a great deal of wear and tear from heavy makeup use and exposure to harsh lights, models often need to pamper their skin with facials, steaming and saunas to keep skin clear and healthy.

The Hair
Hair is a major factor in starting a model’s career. Editors of fashion magazines tend to take a shine to models with exciting haircuts. Hair is the key secret in developing a model’s look.

Step #1 - Shampooing

There are four basic types of shampoos. The one that you use will depend upon whether your hair is normal, chemically treated (permed or colored), dry or has special needs (dandruff problems etc.) Try to use warm rather than hot water when shampooing. Hot water tends to dry hair well to remove all traces of the shampoo to prevent hair from looking dull or limp.

Step #2 - Conditioning

Conditioner returns the hair to its original condition after shampoo has opened up the cuticle and cleaned out the hair shaft. The type of conditioner you use depends upon your hair type. Normal hair requires only a light conditioning, while chemically treated and dry hair needs a deeper protein conditioner to both strengthen damaged hair and to add much needed moisture.

Deep Conditioners

A deep conditioner should be used only when it is necessary to revive hair and to bring back its luster. It is best to try a few different products in order to find the one right for you.

Step #3 - Styling

After shampooing and conditioning towel dry the excess water so that hair is damp and manageable. If blow drying, keep the heat at a low setting to avoid drying the hair out. It is now ready to be styled. In Canada models are often required to style their own hair to create different looks. Magazines are a great source for styling techniques. Using gels, curling irons, hair sprays or simple braids, a model can change her hair quickly and easily.

A. According to Christopher Mackin, the hair guru at New York City’s Elizabeth Arden Red DoorSalon and Spa, rinsing your mane in cold water after you’ve finished shampooing and conditioning will up its gleam factor. The science behind the fact: Cold water actually closes the cuticle (the shinglelike outer layer of each strand). When the cuticle is closed, it lies flat, so it reflects light and looks shiny.

Christopher recommends shampooing your hair with warm water (it opens the cuticle and helps shampoo and conditioner penetrate) before giving it an icy rinse.

Q. Fact or fiction? Brushing your hair makes it healthier.

A. Fact. Gentle brushing distributes natural oils from your scalp to the ends of your hair, making your locks shinier. It also gives your scalp a minimassage, which increases blood circulation around your hair follicles (which encourages hair growth). But don’t go overboard: Brush only dry hair (brushing wet hair can cause breakage) and use a brush that has natural, not plastic, bristles÷it’s easier on your tresses.

Q. I sometimes have acne flare-ups. What can I do?

A. Start by gentle treatment of the skin. Never squeeze pimples or perform “acne surgery” on your face! Eat a well-balanced diet, drink lots of water, and get plenty of rest. Don’t smoke. For the right combination of medications and over-the-counter acne aids for your skin type and degree of acne, see your family doctor or dermatologist. Don’t let TV or magazine ads be your doctor.

Q. How can I clear up the zits on my back and chest?

A. The key to a blemish-free bod is to treat it like your face. Since you spend a few extra minutesscrubbing your face with a medicated cleanser, why not substitute a body wash for your daily soap-and-water sha-bang in the shower?

Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash is infused with salicylic acid, a proven acne buster that’ll clear your pores. During your nighttime oxy-cution routine, dab a little benzoyl peroxide cream (like Exact Vanishing Cream Spot Treatment, or Neutrogena On-The-Spot Acne Treatment) on your problem spots. But, since benzoyl peroxide dyes clothing, wait a few minutes for the cream to dry before pulling a shirt on, to avoid white stains on your PJs.

For long-term body acne prevention, take a look at your daily routines. During workouts, substitute clingy Spandex for loose clothing made from natural fibers like cotton. Natural materials allow the skin to “breathe,” thereby diminishing the amount of sweat on your body. Also, certain fabric softeners have been linked to acne, so be sure you either cut out the fabric softener or pick up a “fragrance-free, sensitive skin” version of your fave brand.

If you’re caught in a time pinch (like, if your prom’s tomorrow) camouflage your body blemishes with a little makeup. Tinted acne creams (like Neutrogena On-The-Spot Tinted Acne Treatment, or Alchemy Medic Blemish Treatment Concealer) provide coverage while fighting zits. Or, try dabbing your foundation and/or concealer on your back and chest for a quick, effective solution.

Get facials!!!! Can not stress this enough! See a certified esthetician and get teen facials!!! It helps prevent acne. They are not that expensive and you feel good and your skin will glow! Call a certified esthetician and ask for a skin evaluation this way they can tell you if you have problem skin and how often you should get a facial. Make sure the evaluation is free. An esthetician can also suggest some cleansing products for skin type instead of buying off the shelf at a drugstore.

Eat leafy green vegetables and drink plenty and plenty of water!!! Stay away from greasy foods! Remove all make up at night before going to sleep. Moisturize and tone your skin! Prevention is the key! Never ever pick your zits!!! It can cause infection and irritation and it will look worse! Smile more often, be happy and have a good attitude, it all helps in prevention!

Stay away from the sun!!! Wear sun screen if you are out in the sun!

For the more-than-occasional, persistent, and painful bouts of body acne, it’s best to visit a dermatologist. He or she can prescribe the appropriate zit-zapping regime (usually an antibiotic and/or an extra-strength topical cream).

A. Weight is less important than natural build and body proportion. Female commercial models come in all shapes and sizes. Fashion models tend to be thinner than average people of the same height; their dress sizes may be 4 to 6. Plus models have sizes 10 to 16, and fuller figures. Men are generally athletic, with a well-defined, but not overpowering build, and have suit sizes from 40 to 42. There is no ideal weight for any model. Learn your natural body size, and be as healthy and fit as you can.

Q. What’s the best way to lose weight?

A. The first three letters in the word “diet” remind us that dieting is not a good thing. Food is such a complex issue in modern life, since we both depend on and indulge in it. Healthy and enjoyable eating can occur together, if you eat in a planned pattern. Weight is best lost gradually, not by restricting total calories, but by avoiding empty calories. Excessive fat, sugar and corn sweeteners, high salt content, and chemicals are used to increase the effects food has on our brains. “Comfort foods” make you pay later. Instead, if we regularly select fresh, whole foods with the right amount of carbohydrate, protein, and vegetable, not animal fat, we will have menus which are pleasant and healthy for the long run. Regularly eating “right,” not skipping meals, and exercising will keep our bodies fit and trim. Of course, ask your doctor, nutritionist, and athletic trainer for guidance and a program, not for pills or short-term gimmicks!

Q. I am worried that my daughter may have an eating disorder. What shall I look for?

A. One severe eating disorder is anorexia, whose symptoms include: deliberate self-starvation with weight loss; fear of gaining weight; refusal to eat; denial of hunger; constant exercising; greater amounts of hair on the body or the face; sensitivity to cold; absent or irregular periods; loss of scalp hair; and most typically, a self-perception of being fat when the person is really too thin.

A related disorder is bulimia, which is eating a lot of food at once (called binging), and then throwing up or using laxatives (called purging). After a binge, some bulimics fast (don’t eat) or over to keep from gaining weight. People with bulimia may also use water pills, laxatives, or diet pills to “control” their weight. People with bulimia often try to hide their binging and purging.

Models should learn how to be the size they were born to be, and realize that most all of the different figure types succeed in different ways. If someone seems to show the warning signs of anorexia or bulimia, it is imperative to get them to see a physician right away. Anorexia and bulimia are conditions which are difficult to treat, and can become life-threatening.

Q. What type of exercise does a model need to do?

A. Any type of exercise is good for a model as long as it is done at least 4-5 days a week. The heart and lungs must be strengthened for aerobic fitness, and the muscles and joints must be kept toned and flexible. Men must strive for well-balanced physiques, “cut", but not bulked-up. Women must be well toned, gracefully proportioned, and have erect carriage (posture). Weight training, martial arts, dancing, aerobics, swimming, yoga, to name a few disciplines, all can be used in combination. An athletic trainer can be very valuable, and should be consulted to plan an individualized fitness program.

A. Your first step is to come in and audition on one of the Open Call dates that are normally posted on our “What’s New Page".

Q. What happens at the Open Call audition?

A. You will introduce yourself, read a commercial script. If we are looking for your type we will give you a “call back” appointment to discuss the opportunities and the commitment you will need to make.

Q. What type are you looking for?

A. We are looking for great faces, with good teeth, great skin and hair. One must also have a great personality, charisma, energy and a passion for the industry. There’s a lot of work for beautiful people, character faces, kids, teens, adults. Height, weight is not important. You just need to have a marketable look.

Q. Do I require any training in becoming an actor?

A. This is an exciting, wonderful industry, but like in any field there are unscrupulous people who give the good ones a bad name. A Talent agency represents individuals interested in a career in acting. One of the first signs of a questionable agency is one that is willing to represent someone who has no experience or training. If it was your dream to play in the National Hockey League the first thing you should do is learn how to play hockey. It takes a lot of practice before you can play professionally. Well, it’s the same with becoming an actor. If you want to be a professional actor/actress, then you need to practice commercials as well as get involved in local theatre groups.

You need to start working on having a few different monologue pieces - dramatic and comedic one minute in length. Training is a very important part of becoming a good performer. It is as important as showing up on time and knowing your lines. No matter how accomplished a professional performer becomes one needs to keep up with their training. There are different methods and a variety of workshops one can look into to keep their skills sharp. The Meisner technique is one that you can look into. Workshops are offered in Toronto and Montreal.

Q. Improvisation is it important?

A. Whether your goal is the stage, the big screen, TV or commercials, improvisation is an essential component to your education and your technique. How well do you handle getting little or no direction? Do you have trouble thinking on your feet when asked to “do it again…differently?” When you audition for an improv-based spot, does your technique fall apart? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then On Camera/Improvisation workshops can help.

Q. People keep telling me “you should be in commercials". Where can I start?

A. You must audition for Angie’s. Angie’s has a fourteen-week workshop. (By invitation only). It was created as an introduction to acting through commercials. Designed for those with little or no acting training. The On Camera workshops explore varied acting and improvisation skills. Each week will involve feedback and critique of class work. Participants should bring a VHS tape to record class work for home viewing.

Q. Where are the auditions for TV Commercials/Film, etc?

A. Most of the auditions are in Toronto/Montreal. Therefore when we look for talent we look for talent that are available to travel on a day’s notice to Toronto/Montreal.

Q. I am a Parent of a minor do I need to accompany my child/teen to auditions?

A. Yes a Parent must always accompany their child to the audition. Or if you have a busy schedule you can appoint a Guardian (Grandparent, Aunt/Uncle Older Sibling).

Q. Can they ask my child to do something dangerous?

A. Absolutely not! They are never allowed to put a child in a situation that places them in clear and present danger to life or limb.

Q. How long is my child allowed to work on a set?

A. The basic work day for film and television is 8 hours plus 1 hour unpaid meal break. Therefore no more than 9 hours on a set.

Q. Do I need Headshots?

A. Yes you do it is very important. You must carry your actor’s cards with you at all times. It is your responsibility to make sure that the agency has a supply of your cards and resumes in order to promote you properly. Your actors’ cards are your business cards. If the Agency informs you that your supply is low it’s a good idea to get an updated card. This is how your agent can submit you on various breakdowns-TV/Film, Music Video, Commercials, Print, etc.

Q. How about transportation?

A. It is your responsibility to get to your auditions/castings and bookings. Whether you drive, take the bus or train you should always have a detailed map of the city.

Q. How about grooming?

A. Nails & toes always must be clean. No polish. Hair natural hair colour. No two tone hair. Fresh and simple! Kids should never ever wear make up!

A. I discuss at length with them my priorities and the reason I got into this business. My top priority is the well-being and improvement of my models. I get tremendous satisfaction knowing that I have helped prepare young people for the challenges of life and that I have provided them an opportunity to improve their lives. Money is secondary with me. Of course, one needs to be prudent in business but that comes as a natural effect of developing strong and ethical relationships with my models and their parents and the agencies I work with which I work in the larger international fashion markets.

As an agency in a smaller market, I often take on the role of a ‘mother’ agency and as such, I take this role very seriously. In a sense, the models become my ‘children’. In my business affairs, as in my life, I apply the Golden Rule. I wouldn’t involve my models in anything that I wouldn’t involve my own children. I am very honest with my models and their parents about their potential. If I don’t think they are ready, I will tell them. If I think they are ready, I will encourage and support them. I also stress the importance of education and let them know that, above anything else, this is a learning environment for them and they must abide by certain rules of conduct if they wish to continue their experience with me. There is nothing more attractive, desirable and magnetic as a beautiful intelligent person. I am a member of the International Modeling and Talent Association (IMTA) which adheres to the highest standards. The IMTA attracts professionals of the highest caliber and its business is conducted on a very professional basis. Inappropriate behavior on the part of models, agencies or anyone else involved with the Association is simply not tolerated and the offending party is asked to leave.

Q. What is your advice to parents experiencing the fashion world for the first time?

A. My advice is to relax, have fun and have faith in their children and not worry about them being ‘led astray’ by the glamour and lights. Indeed, these are a part of the industry but a very small part really. There are those who are attracted to the bright lights and fame only. But these are fleeting and unpredictable without hard work and effort. Those who don’t understand that it takes a lot of hard work and focus just won’t make it. This is a business, a very demanding business, that requires years of hard work and concentration – almost a singleness of purpose.

I tell the parents that they have raised exceptional children who are exceptionally beautiful and intelligent. One of my models, for example, Courtney Miller, who is fast approaching Supermodel status I’m pleased to say, was discovered when she was thirteen and knows the importance of an education. Courtney does her schoolwork wherever she goes throughout the world. Another of my models, Lauren Gerro, who just returned from Tokyo, was the valedictorian of her class. I evaluate my models very carefully. If I see that they do not take this endeavor seriously, I will simply not accept them in my agency – even if they meet the other criteria.

I also tell parents that Supermodels like Cindy Crawford, Claudia Schiffer and Naomi Campbell didn’t make it on beauty and luck alone. Of course, these are factors but these models are all very intelligent. They take the advice of their agencies and managers seriously. They live healthy lifestyles and they are also involved in other businesses. Cindy is an accomplished actress. Naomi has written a novel. Claudia is involved in the Fashion Café, among other things. It took Kate Moss several years to be ‘recognized’ in the fashion industry because of her shorter height and unusual look. She stuck it out, however, and never gave up. She saved her money and invested in herself. When she was asked to travel to New York, she financed her trip herself. The next week she was invited to a party attended by Calvin Klein. Calvin took one look and the rest is history. But Kate had to work to get herself there. These are very smart young women who knew what it took to succeed and did what the rest just didn’t make the effort to do.

Q. How should the relationship between an agent and parents coexist?

A. I believe strongly that the best relationship is one of co-operation and trust. We have a singular purpose. I like to work closely with parents from the beginning and involve them in all of the steps of the decision-making process. I believe that you can achieve superior results from an educative and collaborative process. I like to keep the parents fully informed as to their son’s or daughter’s potential and progress. Once all parties are fully informed with a common vision of the goal we wish to achieve – the well-being of the model – then the horizon for opportunity and success is much broader. In this sense, we collaborate on major decisions that will profoundly affect their child’s future.

Of course, I handle the day to day administrative details of finding the best photographer and work for my models, negotiating the best contract, arranging for their visas and transportation, etc. But in the broader life decisions, the parents must be involved. I always strive for the best possible situation for all concerned – the model’s family and the agencies. My role is one of a facilitator. If, for example, a model is in Milan, away from home for the first time, and she becomes incredibly homesick, it is futile to ask them to remain there. The model obviously isn’t happy and their performance will ultimately suffer. It is clear that, when someone is happy, they perform with confidence and ease. In this case, I try to find an acceptable solution for all concerned, a more agreeable location closer to home, perhaps even a hiatus from modeling for a time, until they feel they are ready to be further away from home. This, I think, is a much more constructive winning approach. In the longer term it is a win-win situation and in the modeling business you must look toward the future.

Q. As an agent, what is your biggest fear or hindrance with parents being involved in their child’s career? The biggest comfort or help?

A. I like to think the best of people. Having a positive attitude is very important to me and I don’t focus on my fears. If there is a hindrance, it is when a parent with little knowledge of the intricacies and relationships in this business tries to intervene or even take over the business decisions. They try contacting the agencies on their own without communicating with me what they have done. Of course, they have good intentions for their son or daughter but this sort of undisciplined behavior can sometimes have disastrous effects. The trust in the relationship has been broken.

It is important to understand the nuances of human relationships in addition to having a thorough understanding of the business. I think you also must be creative in this business. It is an art form. There is a certain subtleness which underlies things. In these cases, I am then left to handle the damage control when the parent realizes they have made a mistake or the agency contacts me asking me what is going on. This can be very time consuming. Luckily, it hasn’t happened often. When it does, one must assess the damage quickly, work to repair the damage, negotiate a solution and try to reach an amicable agreement on the parameters of the relationship again. If this is not possible, and sometimes it isn’t, the best thing to do is to realize that the relationship is unworkable, to conclude it and move on.

A. The only way to be sure is to ask a professional agency like Angie’s. As a guideline for aspiring female models that want to be on the runway or do fashion print they should be at least 5′8″ in height and have a well proportioned body with long, shapely legs. Aspiring male models should be between 5′ 11″ and 6′ 2″ tall with a medium athletic build. Great facial features, good teeth, healthy skin and hair. Also charisma, personality and confidence.

Q. What type of international agent exposure could a model expect within your agency?

A. Angie’s Models & Talent Inc., is known worldwide for their development of models. Angie’s Models/Talent Showcase is held every spring in May and offered exclusively to Angie’s Models and Talent. Prestigious agents from New York, Paris, Milan, Japan, Miami, Greece, Korea, England, Germany, Miami and LA are invited to scout for hot new talent. The purpose of Angie’s Showcase is to give the exposure to our models and talent, by bringing in the agents, Casting Directors, from all over the globe directly to see them! This is an incredible opportunity to meet some of the best agencies in the world!

Q. If I have so much potential, why would I need to pay for training and take a workshop?

A. Being just pretty is not the only reason a model gets a booking. A model must be confident and know what she is doing at a booking. How would you feel going to a casting/audition for a magazine or a designer runway show and be up against models that have great experience in the industry? It’s extremely important for us to send a model with experience in order to demand a “new face” model rate.

Q. Can anyone off the street take the Teen Fashion Runway workshops?

A. No. One must be chosen, selected from one of our open call/auditions. Angie’s workshops teach young girls about makeup application, runway, photography movement, business etiquette, posture, and TV/Commercial auditioning. The workshops are fabulous for our young female models to feel better about themselves and to be a lot more educated about the fashion business. It gets them ready to face the real world when they have to travel around the world. We have challenges in the workshops that also teach our young models about the rejection they have to face out there and why one doesn’t get the “job". We make it fun and keep it real!

Q. I’ve been told I have the figure and features to model, but I am only 5′ 5″ tall. Is there any hope for me?

A. Yes! So, don’t give up! Our beautiful Jenna Calvano 14 yrs old is only 5′5″ and she booked the Abercrombie & Fitch Print Campaign shot by Bruce Weber in PEI the summer of 2005. For shorter girls with the right look, the work is available in TV commercials, commercial print, film/acting. For shorter males they can also find work in TV Commercials, commercial print and film/acting.

Q. How do you find your talent?

A. Ottawa & area is full of beautiful people and Angie’s finds most of them through our open call/model talent auditions. We always have our eyes open wherever we go and many of the faces we find are attached to people who never even dreamed they could be a model. One of our success stories was found at Angie’s son’s basketball game. Another was brought in by one of our models. Parents of our models and talent are always on the lookout for us. Our models are our best scouts!

Q. What separates your Agency from others in the area?

A. That is a simple answer. As the CEO of the Agency, I get as involved as I can in my models’ lives and their progress. We support the parents’ pursuit for better grades in school and acceptable family behaviour. I believe most of the modeling schools in the area remain detached from their students. Angie’s Models and Talent Inc., doesn’t use an arrogant or haughty approach. We demand respect and dedication but the truth is, the only thing that separates me from my students is the knowledge I have of the industry and the connections I’ve made through Modeling In Europe, and North America and serving as a judge and scout at several reputable conventions.

Q. Does Angie’s Models and Talent also book modeling jobs as well as operate as a modeling school?

A. We are not a modeling school. Our main focus is developing potential models for national and international placement. We do offer a variety of workshops to our clients. Ottawa is still a relatively small market with few opportunities for experience. Many of the modeling schools here fight for the local market but merchants don’t want to pay for the talent when they can get a cousin or a nephew to do it for free. Whenever something comes up, we are right on top of it. We do local fashion shows and there are tons of movies and television commercials shot in Montreal and Toronto, which require models/actors and we do submit our actors on the daily breakdowns we receive from the Casting Directors. We have talent working on US/Canadian National TV Commercials, Feature Films, TV Films, Music Videos, Musical Theatre, Major Advertisement Campaigns, Print, Catalogue and Local Short & Independent Films.

Q. How do I know if an agency is reputable?

A. You should find out how long the agency has been in business, who do they work with, do they have success stories as proof. Are they members of the Better Business Bureau. Angie’s Models & Talent Inc., has been in business for over 14 years and clearly has a great reputation with the international agents worldwide.

Q. With all the positive and negative attention the modeling industry attracts today, how does that affect your business?

A. It requires me to explain the facts and dispel the fiction. Many girls think they will be driven around in limos, live in posh hotels and be wined and dined. On the other hand, some girls associate modeling only with sex and drugs. I use a common-sense approach and explain to the models and their parents that it does, in fact, exist in the modeling industry as well as in their high school and many other major corporations. Like anything else, moral boundaries need to be established prior to getting involved in any industry. I believe that most of the girls who have “fallen” had the propensity to self-destruct before becoming a model.

Q. How has it hindered your business?

A. I don’t feel it has but it has required me to take a little bit more time to make the model and their parents feel comfortable with me and trust in what we do.

Q. How do you prepare your talent to manage his/hers earnings?

A. Your personal finances are just that, personal, but I encourage them to save, save, save. Open an account. Keep track of all their expenses for tax purposes. I also make sure they don’t expect to make too much money for at least the first year or two during their development process. I encourage them to keep a journal of each job, its description and intended pay and to keep the lines of communication open with either the accountant or their booker.

Q. Being sensitive to your models’ feelings, how would you tell one of them that he or she should either gain or lose weight?

A. It is definitely a sensitive subject but having a great body is part of being a working model. We sit down together, I let them know what the acceptable measurements should be and we make goals accordingly.

Q. Do you educate your talent on diet and nutrition?

A. We touch on the basics and discuss the right and wrong way to diet but, really, everybody already knows what they should be doing. The problem is the implementation.

Q. Religion - Does the fashion industry’s image go against some of its beliefs?

A. It’s a crazy thing but not everyone I work with is religious. I think that, regardless of religious orientation, many people have a problem with industry’s image as a whole. Schools and agencies need to join together and change that perception. Occasionally, I run across a girl who is ultra conservative and refuses to show her midriff or too much leg etc. The fact is, a model needs to be comfortable showing her skin within reason, and if this isn’t an option, we will encourage them to pursue a different avenue. It can be disappointing but I respect their decision.

Q. When you place models with agencies in the US and Europe, how do you stay involved?

A. Outside of requiring a parent agency agreement, the bond I create with my models and their parents allows me to keep close tabs on my talent and I really rely on them to keep me informed. From time to time, I touch base with the agency and the model’s booker to make sure all is going well. I try not to annoy unless it’s necessary.

Q. What is one weak point you find in aspiring talent that you have to put more emphasis on and how do your turn it around?

A. It varies but most of the guys and girls I run across don’t have the proper self-image necessary to be successful in a competitive industry. Throughout training, image development and photo shoots, our talent begin to see themselves more positively.

Q. How do you prepare your talent for possible rejection?

A. Rejection is a part of this industry and each talent must learn how to handle it. We make sure that they understand that not each agent, casting director or client is going to love their look. That just means, “Where do I try next?”

Q. Do you surf the Net to find talent?

A. No. We don’t scout on any site. If someone is interested they look up our website and contact us either by phone or email. We do receive numerous emails from guys and girls. We do prefer that they come in during our open call/model talent auditions or if they live out of the area to mail us 2 snap shots in a bathing suit and no make up. One headshot and one full body shot. If they have the right look, height, body measurements we ask them to come in for an interview and if they live to far away we interview them over the phone and also talk with their parents.

Q. Do I need pictures?

A. Yes. Eventually you will need to get professional pictures and start working on your portfolio book. After you have been imaged - hair, skin, body is ready. To do pictures just like that you can waste a lot of money and your pictures will get you nowhere. Always best to shoot when your agent tells you that you are ready. Practice and read fashion magazines. Imitate the poses, the styling. Exude confidence.

Q. How much money can I expect to make?

A. The day rate for a model varies for each model it can be anywhere from $1,200 to $2,500 or more. The hourly rate can also vary depending on the job $95 to $200 per hour or more. Then on top of that there are buy out rates which can be vary again depending on the usage and where it will be shown, etc.

Q. What is your message to parents with kids in the business?

A. It is very important that both the model and the parent have a clear understanding of how the industry really works. Shop around for the school or agency that you feel comfortable with then you will be able to trust in their guidance. Keep the lines of communication open and check in with the agent from time to time. Offer your child support but don’t hover, and remember, a legitimate agency will have your little model’s best interest in mind.

Q. What are three tips that would lead to a successful career in this business?

A. First, treat modeling as a business. Always be on time, make it easy for others to work with you, put 100 per cent into it. Nobody wants a drama queen or a diva on a set. No stage parents. Parents can travel with their teen model but need to be there for support and not to interfere and demand things from their agent or the client. Second, don’t party. This is the fastest way to bring any kind of career to a screeching halt. Parties tire you out, ruin your skin and make you unreliable. Keep away from drugs, smoking and alcohol. Every job/booking is an opportunity to meet and network with new people no matter how big or small the booking might be. Lastly, have fun, enjoy all the people you will meet and revel in your travels.

Q. How can I be successful in this business?

A. This question has been asked over and over by girls and guys wanting to be models and or actors. The answer…success is where “Preparation Meets Opportunity". So prepare, prepare, prepare!

Going to a workshop isn’t the only thing you need to do to be professional. It’s the entire package that an agent or casting director is interested in. “YOU” are the product you are selling. Your look, your style, personality, your attitude, make up, clothes, nails, hair, confidence, body measurements, all of these things come into play when you are preparing to compete as a professional.

If you need to knock off a few pounds, buff up, colour your hair, be more friendly or assertive, or maybe project a different style in the photos-it’s all up to you to seek out the professionals who can help you to create your image and at the same time be diligent about your training. After putting your entire package together, “YOU” then put yourself in a position where your preparation can meet opportunity.

Angie’s Formula for Success - Preparation + Opportunity = Success

Q. Last piece of advice?

A. It often takes a beginner quite a while to be clean looking and polished, as there is the tendency to overdo everything. Less is more, hence the true saying - Models are Created, Not Born. This is the only industry that picks you. You can’t pick it! Remember your agent’s/booker’s birthday, anniversary, etc. It goes along away for that next booking. Be close to your family. Family support is very important. Believe in yourself and always remain true to yourself.