FAQ
![Roshello](https://mapsstudio.nyc/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Roshello.jpg)
Is Maps Studio an agency?
Maps Studio is not a modeling agency. For typical photography packages, we do not find work for models. What we do, is help aspiring models take the first few steps to break into the modeling industry. Our services help put you in a confident position to start approaching the right agencies with the right information.
![Jayceon](https://mapsstudio.nyc/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Jayceon.jpg)
Do I need a portfolio?
Yes, a portfolio is the key to your success. It is your CV. Modeling portfolios show ability and
versatility and will show your full potential as a model to all clients. Your clients will hire you
depending on your modeling portfolio, therefore the better your portfolio the higher
chance of getting signed with an agency and finding work.
![Jill](https://mapsstudio.nyc/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Jill.jpg)
Do I need to pay
for my portfolio?
Every model will need to pay for their portfolio. Top fashion agencies will invest and build
portfolios for their models and will take a large figure from their first pay, however not
every model is lucky to sign to a top fashion agency as they have very strict requirements.
![Samuel](https://mapsstudio.nyc/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Samuel.jpg)
Do I need professional images to
approach agencies?
You will always need professional images to market yourself as a model, however, there are
some companies and agencies that will request natural images as well as professional
images before making a decision.
![MIA](https://mapsstudio.nyc/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MIA.jpg)
Who owns Maps Studio?
Maps Studio is owned by The Photo Studio Group LLC. We own and operate several modeling photography studios aimed at helping our customers grow their careers.
![Jorge](https://mapsstudio.nyc/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Jorge.jpg)
Do model agencies
guarantee work?
No agency can guarantee work to their clients! While they can represent you and market you, it is ultimately the creative decision-makers within each brand who organize the shoots to choose which model, they want to work with, and they do that by looking at your portfolio. Maps Studio helps put our models in the best place possible to look their best and have the most opportunities in their niche.
![Michelle R](https://mapsstudio.nyc/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Michelle-R.jpg)
How long would it
take for me to get jobs?
This question depends on the market and what businesses you are applying to are looking for. Many of our models immediately find work once they use their new photography portfolio to help with auditions and castings. Many work for 3 months learning, picking and choosing what works best for them. This can also depend on new trends, new fashions, and new companies. Be sure you understand the commitment, the need to be persistent, and motivated. Being at the right place at the right time can be critical - so be sure you continue to apply and make industry connections!
![MM](https://mapsstudio.nyc/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MM.jpg)
How Much will I get paid?
Rates for models vary enormously from job to job. If you are signed with an agency, you should have a very clear understanding of all rates and the percentage your agent will take from your earnings. If you are using casting websites and freelance websites to find work, the rate will always be advertised so you can pick and choose what suits you. However, it may sometimes be worthwhile to go for low-paid or even unpaid jobs to build up your experience and portfolio.
![Bree](https://mapsstudio.nyc/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Bree.jpg)
Do I have to travel?
Modeling can involve travelling and this does depend on the location of shoots and castings
for you to attend. Usually, your agent will arrange your travel.
![Bill W](https://mapsstudio.nyc/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Bill-W.jpg)
Would modeling affect
my studies?
Agencies will represent you and find work; it is up to you to decide which castings and shoots you would like to attend. Do not be afraid to say no. If you are in full-time education, your agency will be aware and would only call you on weekends and holidays, so your studies are not interrupted."
![Christian](https://mapsstudio.nyc/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Christian.png)
Can I join more than
one agency?
Most models within the industry do not get exclusivity contracts - they work on a freelance
basis. This can have its benefits because it means they are able to work with more than one
agency.
![Mariana](https://mapsstudio.nyc/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Mariana.jpg)
What shape or
size do I have to be?
The model industry has undergone an overhaul in the last five years: no longer do you have
to be a size zero to be successful. Nowadays, many of the world’s top designers have
banned size zero models from appearing in catwalk shows. It is important to be realistic and
approach the correct agencies with the right style of portfolio.
![cainan](https://mapsstudio.nyc/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/cainan.jpg)
Is a tattoo acceptable
in the modeling industry?
While tattoos were a no-go in the industry, they are now more accepted, depending on their size and location. With a third of young people in Georgia now having a tattoo, advertisers are realizing that their target market not only wants to view models with tattoos but also have some form of body ink.