Print models appear in printed material such as magazines, brochures, newspapers, and billboards. Modeling in print is more accepting when it comes to body size and height requirements, but the increase in diversity can make this industry even more competitive. This competition is why choosing a reputable modeling agency is crucial for the success of your modeling career.
Print modeling agencies are meant to guide and support the model through both the audition and assignment process. Agencies can help to ensure you get paid the correct amount for your work and can book gigs that will align with your preferences.
When looking for a print modeling agency, it can be hard to sift through the thousands of testimonials, offers, and requirements to find the right fit. And during this decision there are a few things you should prioritize, such as the reputation, location, and supportiveness of the agency. We focused on these factors to create a list of the top five modeling agencies to make the process easier for print models like you.
- Elite Model Management
This print modeling agency began in Paris in 1972, but now has offices across the world in cities such as Los Angeles, Toronto, London, and New York, making them one of the most accessible agencies regardless of your location.
Elite has gained a reputation as one of the top agencies for up-and-coming print models by discovering many well-known models throughout the years. Some of the most notable of these clients are Tyra Banks, Cindy Crawford, Lara Stone, Kendall Jenner, and Naomi Campbell.
Even while representing such high-profile clients, Elite Model Management has maintained its reputation as a caring and supportive agency for models. Many former models credit this agency for its acknowledgment of hard work, hands-on management, and engaging work atmosphere.
While open calls are not currently open for this agency, applications can still be submitted online following the application instructions listed here.
- IMG Models
Founded in 1987 and based out of New York City, this international modeling agency is known for its diversity of clientele and success for newer models. Offices can be found in New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris, Milan, and Sydney, so they are accessible to all corners of the world.
IMG Models has represented a number of prestigious models, including Kate Moss, Gigi Hadid, Hailey Bieber, Chanel Iman, and Ashley Graham, and they aim to accept models of varying heights, sizes, and races into their team. This inclusivity makes IMG Models one of the fastest-growing modeling agencies for print models and one of the most supportive agencies to work with.
This agency encourages models with no previous experience or portfolios to apply, which is a plus for newer models wanting to build a portfolio quickly.
- Ford Models
Based out of New York City, Ford Models serves models in Paris, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami too. Since they are smaller than some of the other top agencies listed, this print modeling agency is loved for their family-oriented work environment and the care they provide to their models.
Ford Models has been credited for discovering many top models such as Christie Brinkley, Suzy Parker, Brooke Shields, Awar, and Lindsay Lohan. Many of their models go on to have illustrious careers in the modeling or acting industry as well.
Models have described this agency as very supportive and the agents are always understanding of your needs even in the fast-paced environment of print modeling. If you are looking to sign with this agent, check out their application guidelines first.
- Wilhelmina Models
Wilhelmina Models is the most willing to sign plus-size models of all the print modeling agencies. As industry standards shift towards a more inclusive environment, this modeling agency continues to practice inclusivity, as it has for years. Wilhelmina consistently signs plus-sized men and women as print models.
Some of their most famous modeling clients include Naomi Sims, Whitney Houston, Sora Choi, and Patti Henson, but they are also associated with the success of entertainers such as Nicki Minaj, Demi Lovato, and Machine Gun Kelly.
Open calls are currently closed for all locations, but online submissions are encouraged as the quickest way to contact the agency.
- Next Management
Established over 20 years ago, Next Management has excelled in the industry as a fast-growing and successful modeling agency. They have offices located in Paris, Milan, London, Miami, New York, and Los Angeles, and they are known for their excellent management and their wonderful client-agent relationships.
The Next Management clientele are top models such as Anna Cleveland, Grace Elizabeth, Binx Walton, and Anok Yai. They also have signed with known talent such as Ellie Goulding, Dua Lipa, Lana Del Rey, and Billie Eilish.
Many of these top models and entertainers want to work with Next because of their exceptional work environment. This agency works hard to ensure the well-being of its models comes first, and former models for this agency have credited the Next Management agents for their willingness to help.
Online submissions are the preferred way of applying to become a Next model, and open calls have been canceled until further notice.
Applying as a Print Model
Whether you are applying as an experienced print model or are just beginning to dip your toes into the modeling industry, finding the right modeling agency to sign you is the most important step in this process.
When looking for a print model agency, remember to look for agencies with proven track records, offices located in your area, and a supportive team to help you in your journey. A career in modeling is challenging and competitive, but it can also be rewarding and fun with the right team in your corner.
And remember to find an agency that works best with you and your personal preferences. Just because an agency worked well with Tyra Banks does not mean it will work well with you. Trust your instincts and find an agency you feel you can be a part of.
