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New York Modeling Agency Open-Call Times
Model Agency Open Calls
If you are an aspiring model who lives in close proximity to New York, you can go in person to some modeling agencies. ”Open calls” take place at a set time each week, and during a 1 or 2 hour window, you can show up and wait your turn for a quick (usually) perusal of your photos. Some agencies have age and height limitations—you may have to be under 21 and over 5’8″ or 5’9″ (for women; men have  more flexibility in age range and generally should be over 5’11″ and under 6’3″).
Model Cara Delevingne’s striking features can turn heads in a top market like NY
Tips for Model Submissions and Agency Open-Calls
If you don’t live in the New York area, it’s wise to submit photos via e-mail first and see if you get a response. Showing up in person may slightly increase your odds of being signed, but the odds of getting representation in New York are always tiny. It’s a highly competitive market. Don’t drop $1,000 on a trip to New York unless you are eager to see the Empire State Building anyway and don’t have expectations of becoming a supermodel within the month!
If you do attend open calls, apply minimal makeup (but enough to downplay flaws and play up your best features), wear form-fitting clothing but be tasteful, show a sense of style and your unique personality! Girls, if you are under 5’10″, wear heels. You will live in them if you are lucky enough to be sent out on go-sees.
Open-Call Times (double-check on the agencies’ websites for changes/updates):
New York Model Management – Women on Thursdays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at 596 Broadway, 7th floor  Tel. (212) 539-1700
Men, submit online (women can as well): Newyorkmodels.com
New York Model Management
Next – Wednesdays from 10:30 to 11 (women only) at 15 Watts St., 6th floor  Tel. (212) 925-5100
Red – Men only on Wednesdays from 3 to 5 p.m. at 302 West 37th St, 3rd floor  Tel. (212) 785-1999
Request Model Management – Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to noon at 156 Fifth Avenue, suite 1134  Tel. (212) 529-4130
Wilhelmina – Click link for open call calendar.  300 Park Ave. South, 2nd floor  Tel. (212) 473-0700
Wilhelmina Curve Division
Enter the Modeling Mentor Model Search—a great way to be seen by the top agents who receive my monthly Modeling Newsletter showcasing the finalists!
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my son. its intereted to be a model for close like taking pucture for posters in the stores or magazing he wants to make some money
He/you should read as many of the posts and articles on my site as you can to get informed about the industry! See related posts here: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/category/modeling/ Be sure to keep scrolling back by clicking on “More Posts.”
You also should subscribe to my free monthly newsletter: http://modelingmentor.us5.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=9ac8c2abbe1af96e0b38238cb&id=2742c18b6e
And enter your son in my model search; it’s a good way to be seen by agents! https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/how-to-enter-the-modeling-mentor-model-search/
Best of luck, Jill
Hi. Do you know if it is normal never to hear back from the open call? I went with my daughter, they told pictures and said she’d receive an email. She just hasn’t – and I think it is really distasteful not to at least get back when you have had the interaction.
Normally you would get a “thanks but no thanks” during the open call. Was everyone told they would receive an email or did she get special attention? I would say it’s normal never to hear anything after an open call, but if someone says they will email, then they should. People are busy, though. I’m not surprised. Courtesy is nice but rare, sadly.
Good afternoon,
My daughter Mia just turned 14 in December and is very interested in modeling! She is 5 foot 8 but the doctor told me she will grow till she is 16. Would she even be looked at being that she is only 5 foot 8? Should we wait to see if she continues to grow? Is she old enough to go to an open call? Thanks sorry for all of the questions. Tracey
Hi, yes, at only 14, she still has potential to grow and definitely can go to open calls now. Reiterate what the doctor said. Where do you live?
Be sure to enter her in my model search: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/how-to-enter-the-modeling-mentor-model-search/
Also subscribe to my free monthly newsletter to stay up to date on modeling news, tips, and model search results: http://modelingmentor.us5.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=9ac8c2abbe1af96e0b38238cb&id=2742c18b6e
Good luck!
Jill
I want to become a model in this project.
If you mean on modelingmentor.com, then enter the Modeling Mentor Model Search! Here’s how: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/how-to-enter-the-modeling-mentor-model-search/
Good luck!
Hello, My name is Maciej and I’m 24 ( male ) . I’d like to come for open call. Please tell me if I need to bring portfolio with me or just simple photo shots will be enough ? Thank you 1
If you have a portfolio, bring it. If you just have a few photos, that’s generally fine too. Good luck!
Hey I loved this blog , how informational and helpful it was. I always wanted to become a model but I just don’t know what first steps to take, who to talk to or where to go? If I was giving a chance to show my self I believe that I would be successful. What advice would you give me to start this dream . I love fashion and I just want to be a part of it. Thank you
Hi Yoskaira,
You should read as many of the posts and articles on my site as you can to get informed about the industry! See related posts here: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/category/modeling/ Be sure to keep scrolling back by clicking on “More Posts.”
You also should subscribe to my free monthly newsletter: http://modelingmentor.us5.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=9ac8c2abbe1af96e0b38238cb&id=2742c18b6e
And enter my model search; it’s a good way to be seen by agents! https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/how-to-enter-the-modeling-mentor-model-search/
Best of luck, Jill
Hey, my name is Jada Ward and I’m 18 yrs old. I really want to become a plus size model but I’ve been emailing agencies and submitting photos on their website but none of them seem to be interested. All I’m asking for is a chance to prove that I have what it takes. I feel like that since I do not have a lot of money or any experience is holding me back and I just do not know what to do.
Hi Jada,
Perseverance is key but also knowledge. You can read a little about plus-size modeling here:
https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/modeling-agency-snapshot-bicoastal-fitting-models/
https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/fit-modeling-commercial-modeling-more-for-non-size-4-models/
https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/tbt-model-news-crystal-renns-hungry/
I hope this is helpful!
Why don’t you submit some photos to my model search: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/how-to-enter-the-modeling-mentor-model-search/
You also can subscribe to my free newsletter to stay in the loop: http://modelingmentor.us5.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=9ac8c2abbe1af96e0b38238cb&id=2742c18b6e
Good luck!
Jill
Hey, my name is Jada Ward and I’m 18 yrs old. I really want to become a plus size model but I’ve been emailing agencies and submitting photos on their website but none of them seem to be interested. All I’m asking for is a chance to prove that I have what it takes. I feel like that since I do not have a lot of money or any experience is holding me back and I just do not know what to do. Do you have any advice ?
Hi Jada, You have to remember that agencies get thousands of submissions! 99.9% of people will never hear back from them. You really can’t take it personally. Plus size models, like straight size models, need to be tall, so that will be the first consideration. Why don’t you enter my model search contest and then I can also give you some feedback: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/how-to-enter-the-modeling-mentor-model-search/
Hi,
I would love to become a plus size model, few models suggested to me as well. I am 5’9, exotic middle eastern look, long black hair
I live an hour away from NYC and am interested in attending open calls. I have zero experience though. Do you have to have photos? I thought an open call is just for them to see ME in person. If I do need photos where do I start? Will I need to pay a photographer in the beggining seeing as I have no experience? Thanks.
Hi Christian, Agencies do like you to bring photos, so they can see how photogenic you are. They need not be professional photos, but read my tips here: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/modeling-agency-submissions-5-tips-for-taking-the-photos-agents-want-to-see/
Also, submit photos to my Model Search! https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/how-to-enter-the-modeling-mentor-model-search/
Good luck!
Jill
Hi. I’m wondering if there are any reputable agencies representing petite models. I’m only 5’2
Hi Aida,
Where are you located? If near NYC or LA…
Check out this agency: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/modeling-agency-snapshot-bicoastal-fitting-models/
https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/fit-modeling-commercial-modeling-more-for-non-size-4-models/
Malissa may have some advice for you about petite modeling. I think even petite models tend to be taller than 5’2″ and there isn’t a huge market. It’s frustrating, I know.
Commercial modeling/acting calls for people of all sizes. Check out these posts: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/category/commercial-modeling/
Best of luck!
Jill
Petite models usually are taller than 5’2″ (I know, not fair!) and there isn’t a huge market for petite modeling anyway. You should read my posts on commercial modeling, which has more leeway on height. Check out these links:
https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/category/commercial-modeling/
Also subscribe to my free newsletter if you haven’t yet: http://modelingmentor.us5.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=9ac8c2abbe1af96e0b38238cb&id=2742c18b6e
Best of luck! Jill
The modelling agencies are really helpful.Thanks for sharing
Hi! My name is Erin and I am 16. I have always wanted to be a model but I fear I can’t because of my height. I am only 5’5. My doctor says I might come out at 5’6 just barely. Am I just to short?
Hi Erin,
5’6″ is tricky. It has happened before: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/tuesday-tip-pint-size-supermodels-prove-you-dont-have-to-be-five-ten/
But commercial modeling is probably more realistic. Check out these posts: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/category/commercial-modeling/
Why don’t you submit some photos to my model search: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/how-to-enter-the-modeling-mentor-model-search/
You also can subscribe to my free newsletter to stay in the loop: http://modelingmentor.us5.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=9ac8c2abbe1af96e0b38238cb&id=2742c18b6e
Good luck!
Jill
This might be the wrong place,but can anybody recommend an agency for babies?What are the first steps?My baby boy is 5 months old.
Hi Karina,
Where do you live?
You can check out these posts for more info on child modeling, including some scoop on baby modeling:
https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/think-your-kid-could-model/
https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/category/child-models/page/2/
https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/category/child-models/
You also can subscribe to my free newsletter to stay in the loop: http://modelingmentor.us5.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=9ac8c2abbe1af96e0b38238cb&id=2742c18b6e
Thanks for reading
Jill
Where do you live?
Here are some posts you should read for more info: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/think-your-kid-could-model/
https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/category/child-models/page/2/
https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/category/child-models/
Hi. I’m very interested in becoming a model… everyone keeps telling I have what it takes. I would love to be a face model because I don’t think I have the body, I’m 6’2 190lbs. Should I start attending to open call agency’s in nyc. I live 30min away from the city. Thanks
Kirill
Hi Kirill,
There really isn’t any such thing as a face model. A model needs to be able to do it all! The top editorial models are usually also the top runway models. Why don’t you submit some photos to my model search: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/how-to-enter-the-modeling-mentor-model-search/
You also can subscribe to my free newsletter to stay in the loop: http://modelingmentor.us5.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=9ac8c2abbe1af96e0b38238cb&id=2742c18b6e
Best of luck!
Jill
Good morning, my name is estelle and I’m interested in modeling.after reading and getting info from your website I’m interested in becoming one. I have no experience and would like to see where this go but I’m afraid that this will be a scam. If you can give more information instead of going to another site that would be helpful. Thank you for your time.
Hi Denise,
Why don’t you enter my model search: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/how-to-enter-the-modeling-mentor-model-search/
The photos and info you submit there will help me in advising you. This is not a scam. I just try to give honest, direct advice, with no ulterior motive. That is hard to come by in this business!
All the best,
Jill
Hey, I’m 15 and I’m 5’0.25 can I still model
5’8″ tends to be the minimum so you have to think outside the fashion modeling box. Do you have any interest in acting? There is a fair amount of crossover between modeling and acting. You could get some acting training and try to get a talent agent. Take a look at these posts:
https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/tuesday-tip-top-commercial-agents-in-new-york/
https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/actors-and-commercial-models-how-to-get-an-agent/
Best of luck!
Jill
Hi! My name is Brittany,
I’m 25 years old and 5’8″. I’ve freelanced with modeling for a while and never tried to get an agent. I’ve recently worked with some models that were older than me that signed to pretty big agencies and they were encouraging me to try and do the same. I’m always told I should pursue it and I look young. Is it an issue that I’m 25 and 5’8″? I’m trying to get a good idea of where I should submit to.
Thank you!!!
Hi Brittany. Where are you based? In NYC? The market you are working in will be a factor in my advice. Thanks for reading
Jill
Hi Jill,
I haven’t seen a question similar to mine posted yet so I hope you can answer the following. I just moved to NY and would like to go to open calls. I’m 29 years young. My height is 5’9″ and I’m especially interested in lifestyle, creative and artistic modeling (so not necessarily the run-way high-fashion type of modeling). Does it make sense for me to show up at open calls when there are no age restrictions posted on the website or I’m too old to be taken into consideration? Thanks!
Hi Jill! For the top agencies, I would say your age will be a deal breaker, especially if you don’t have a solid portfolio and experience already. But some agency have divisions for older models. Check out this agency: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/modeling-agency-snapshot-bicoastal-fitting-models/
You also could start by freelancing: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/tuesday-tip-the-ins-outs-of-freelance-modeling/
Best of luck!
Jill
MY name is JAMSHED SIDDIQUE. I love modeling. my age is 24 and my height is 6ft plz give me chance. I from Pakistan.
Hi Jamshed,
Why don’t you enter my model search? The info is all here: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/how-to-enter-the-modeling-mentor-model-search/
You also can subscribe to my free newsletter to stay informed about the search and modeling news: https://us5.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=9ac8c2abbe1af96e0b38238cb&id=2742c18b6e
Good luck!
Jill
hello , sry to taking ur time . i am 29 years old . no experienced . i just wana know if i be ideal according to face or height or being photogenic , does my age make any problem to do this ?
Hi Ali, It is rare to start a serious modeling career at age 29, but you can enter my model search to get some guidance. The info is all here: https://www.modelingmentor.com/blog/how-to-enter-the-modeling-mentor-model-search/
You also can subscribe to my free newsletter to stay informed about the search and modeling news: https://us5.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=9ac8c2abbe1af96e0b38238cb&id=2742c18b6e
Good luck!
Jill