Jane: I was referred to Pro-Model and Talent by a client. I worked several years as a freelance commercial model and actor, and bookings were scarce. It was suggested I sign with an agency, and I heard that Pro-Model and Talent had a good reputation. I gathered a reel of commercials together along with some photos, and presented it to the New Faces Department at an Open Call.
Do you feel you would have been exposed to the auditions and assignments you’ve received without representation through Pro-Model and Talent?
Jane: Nope. I continued to fine-tune my book, and my auditions increased. I’ve acquired some regular gigs through Pro-Model and Talent, and have probably done 50 shoots for the Home Improvements Catalog alone! I also have a lucrative monthly retainer with a company where I get paid whether they use me or not! I would never have been able to negotiate that on my own.
Tell us about some of the auditions and assignments you’ve done.
Jane: Some other highlights include a shoot for Visa at Cedar Downs in Lousiville, KY, and a shoot for AudioTechnica in Las Vegas. I’ve also worked for the Cleveland Clinic, Hoover Vacuum, More Magazine, Playhouse Square Center, P.B.S., The Ohio Board of Travel and Tourism, Costco, and Danskin just to name a few … Phew, and all booked through Pro-Model and Talent
With your experience now, do you feel training is important to succeed as a local model/actor? If so, why?
Jane: Yes, definitely. I started with a career in Telecommunications, but there are a lot of the fine-tuned details that are taught at Barbizon of Akron and not in the broadcasting classes I took as an undergraduate.
What is your best piece of advice for aspiring models or actors beginning in the local market?
Jane: Always, always, always be on time or a few minutes early. At a major shoot, there may be 20 to 50 support personnel all getting paid hourly. Talent arriving late is the worst possible scenario and sets a bad tone for the shoot. Just get there early!
