Creative Common License
If you’re a model looking to make it big, one of the first hurdles you’ll encounter is signing a contract. Contracts might not sound glamorous—there’s nothing chic about legalese—but understanding what you’re signing is one of the most critical steps in your career. The right contract can set you up for success; the wrong one can lock you into years of exploitation or financial losses.
Here’s what you need to know before you sign on the dotted line—whether you’re represented by an agency or going it alone.
1. Know What You’re Getting Into
The first rule of contracts: read everything. It sounds obvious, but many models—eager to jump into their first gig—skim over the fine print. Don’t. Contracts are legally binding, and they’ll dictate everything from how much you’re paid to what control you have over your image.
Common clauses to watch for include:
Exclusivity: Does the contract prevent you from working with other agencies or clients?
Duration: How long are you tied to this agreement?
Renewal Terms: Is the contract automatically renewable, and if so, can you opt out easily?
If you don’t fully understand the terms, consult someone who does—a lawyer, an industry mentor, or even a trusted peer with more experience.
2. Don’t Get Blindsided by Fees
Modeling agencies often tout themselves as your gateway to the industry, but it’s no secret that they’re running a business. Agencies typically take a percentage of your earnings—standard cuts range from 20% to 33%—but that’s not where the financial obligations end.
Many contracts include additional fees for:
Portfolio Development: Paying for photoshoots or headshots to "market" you to clients.
Comp Cards: The physical calling cards of the modeling world.
Travel and Accommodations: If you're required to travel for work, find out who foots the bill.
Independent models aren’t immune from hidden costs either. Freelancers might not pay an agency commission, but they’re often responsible for covering their own marketing, legal fees, and insurance.
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3. Understand Your Rights to Your Image
Your image is your brand, and it’s valuable. Before signing a contract, make sure you know who owns the rights to your photos and how they can be used.
Ask these questions:
Can the agency or client sell your photos to other parties without your consent?
Do you have control over where and how your images appear (e.g., advertising, editorial spreads, social media)?
Are you compensated for secondary uses, like licensing your image to another company?
For independent models, this might mean setting clear terms in your freelance contracts to avoid misuse of your likeness.
4. Payment Terms Can Make or Break You
It’s not enough to know how much you’ll be paid—you need to know when and how. Many models have horror stories about waiting months to get paid or discovering they owe more in fees than they earned.
Make sure the contract spells out:
Payment Schedule: Are you paid per gig, monthly, or quarterly?
Holdbacks: Some agencies or clients hold a percentage of your earnings for "administrative" reasons.
Non-Payment Clauses: What happens if the client doesn’t pay the agency? Are you still guaranteed your cut?
For freelancers, asking for deposits or milestone payments upfront can help ensure you’re not chasing down money after the job is done.
5. Negotiate, Don’t Just Accept
Contrary to popular belief, contracts are negotiable. The first draft you’re handed is rarely set in stone. If something doesn’t sit right, speak up.
For models with agencies, this might mean negotiating lower commission rates or clarifying the terms of your exclusivity. Independent models might negotiate their rate, the scope of usage rights, or even timelines for payment.
The Bottom Line: Protect Yourself
Modeling might seem like a dream career, but it’s also a business—and businesses are all about contracts. The more you understand about the agreements you’re signing, the better positioned you’ll be to protect yourself and your future.
At the end of the day, it’s about more than money—it’s about control. Control over your work, your image, and your career. So, whether you’re signing with an agency or drafting your own freelance agreements, remember: you’re not just a model. You’re a brand. Act like one.