Major Agencies Are Searching For You!!!

Each year thousands of model searches and open calls are held online and all over the country. Model searches and open calls are some of the best ways to increase an aspiring model's chances of being discovered by a major agency. In addition to the possibility of landing a contract or deal, model searches are a great opportunity to make contacts, learn more about how the industry works, and win great prizes including cosmetics, clothing, and other really great perks.

If you've heard you have to go to New York in order to get signed to a prominent modeling agency - that's simply not true. Agencies are just as determined to find new faces as you are to get signed. In addition to model searches and open calls in even some of the smallest towns, many larger agencies work with scouts from Jacksonville, Florida to Tacoma, Washington to find their next big client.

As an aspiring model, it can be difficult to know which opportunities to take advantage of when trying to land an agent and launch your career. Model searches and open calls are extremely helpful to aspiring models because:

• Most model searches typically cost less than $50 to participate and most open are free - there are some exceptions.
• You can find model searches in your own hometown, or online which means you don't have to spend an arm and a leg on travel and accommodations.
• Model searches are a great opportunity to get feedback from industry professionals who can advise you on your strength and your weaknesses.
• You can get a better idea of what kind of work you're best suited for, ex. Runway, catalog, etc.

If you've been doing your homework then you know that Elite Model Management is the largest modeling agency in the world, representing more than 800 models from five continents. Models previously represented by Elite include Tyra Banks, Claudia Schiffer, Heidi Klum, and Gisele Bundchen. If Elite can help those models rise to fame, then imagine what they could do for you!

Well signing with Elite may just be easier than you think. Aspiring models often think that meeting with a large agency without dazzling photos is almost impossible, but that's not true at all. Did you know that at the Elite Model Management office in Chicago, they have an open call EVERY DAY at 3:30PM? Did you also know that professional photos are not required, no appointment is necessary and dress is casual? The only requirement is that girls are at least 5'7 and guys are at least 5'11 and it's suggested that you wear little or no makeup.

Isn't exciting to know that the opportunities are out there? For more information about opportunities available to aspiring models, visit http://www.EliteCastingNetwork.com and check out our 'Auditions' page.

Set Your Sights On Competition In 2008

Ever wonder how your talent compares to other aspiring performers? Participating in competitions is a great way to gauge how you measure up in the industry, as well as increase your confidence and get additional performing experience. It’s also a great way to get exposure and boost your resume.

To make the most out of your competition experience:

Target competitions that are geared towards helping performers launch a professional career – especially competitions that either have celebrity judges or have a reputation of being well attended by industry professionals.

Make sure you’re aware of all scheduled deadlines, rehearsals and performances. You don’t want to blow your big break because you didn’t get your application in on time or because you missed your audition.

Be sure that you’re aware of all of the requirements - especially any required fees - so that you’re prepared. Whether it’s a singing, modeling, acting or dance competition, be sure that you have everything you’ll need from your repertoire to your wardrobe – and if you don’t have something, make sure you take care of it well in advance.

Take advantage of opportunities to network. Remain focused on the competition, but be sure that you build relationships with participants, staff and other individuals that could potentially help you in the future.

Have fun! Winning isn’t everything. If you don’t win your first competition, there are lots more out there. And with all of the experience that you get from your first competition, you’ll be even more prepared for the next.

For a list of talent competitions, visit our ‘Talent Resources’ page at http://www.EliteCastingNetwork.com. You can also visit our community forum to ask other Star Search Casting members which competitions they’ve participated in to help them boost their careers. Good luck!