Modeling Agencies in Los Angeles

Los Angeles has more modeling agencies than most new models can sort through. Some are global names with a branch here, some are small boutiques, and a few lean toward commercial and on-camera work rather than runway.

Below are 14 agencies to look at, with what each is known for and who it might suit. We have no affiliation with any of them and this isn't an endorsement. Check each agency's own site for current submission rules before you send anything.

Big international names with an LA office

Elite Model Management

Elite started in Paris and has offices in several fashion cities, LA among them.

It's one of the best-known names in the business and runs the Elite Model Look contest, which has an age range and parental consent rules for under-18s.

Good fit if you want a famous name on your comp card. Read the contract carefully, as you would with any agency.

Wilhelmina Models

Dutch supermodel Wilhelmina Cooper founded it, and it represents a wide mix of looks, shapes and genders.

The roster has included names like Beverly Johnson, Naomi Sims, Gia Carangi and Coco Rocha.

Worth a look if you don't fit a narrow high-fashion mold, since the agency also handles commercial and talent work.

Next Model Management

Next is a large international agency, with a long record of runway and magazine bookings in Vogue and Harper's Bazaar.

It works with both established names and new faces. Best for models with a strong editorial or runway look who can travel.

Q Model Management

Q began in New York and has a smaller LA branch.

It says its models have worked with brands including Nike, Adidas, Starbucks and Amazon, and it represents a number of well-known men.

A good option if you want a boutique feel with big-brand commercial work.

Boutique and mid-size agencies

LA Models

Heinz Holba started LA Models in the 1980s to bring an international-style agency to the West Coast.

His pitch is that Southern California gives photographers beaches, desert and mountains within a short drive. The agency has a sister division, LA Talents, for on-camera advertising and film and TV work.

Listed names include Gabriette Bechtel, Gizele Oliveira, Nyadhuor Deng and Michael Yerger.

Bella Agency

Bella represents models and other talent, and it has an influencer division for people with a big social following.

The agency says its clients have appeared in ads for Uniqlo, Target and Coca-Cola, and that it actively looks for new faces.

Worth a try if you have an active social presence as well as a portfolio.

Genetic Model Management

Genetic works with women and men on advertising and runway jobs.

It's known for developing new faces, which makes it a sensible first stop if you're just starting out. Represented models such as Yuliia Kurochka and Simona Kirchnerova work internationally for high-end labels.

Otto Models

Otto is a boutique agency run by Tereza and Jason Otto, working with women, men and kids.

Its work spans fashion shows, catalogs, magazines, music videos and TV commercials. If you live in Orange County or San Diego, it's closer to you than the LA agencies.

Photogenics Media

Photogenics describes itself as a one-stop shop for fashion and entertainment, and it's known for taking models of all sizes, shapes and ethnicities.

It also books creative, offbeat looks. If you're a model who doesn't fit the standard mold, this is one to try.

Nous Model Management

Nous is a small boutique focused on high-end print and runway.

It's selective and takes few people at a time, so expect a harder yes. Its men's board is its best-known part.

DT Model Management

David Todd Model Management, or DT, is a boutique agency with a small, selective roster.

It says its models have appeared in GQ, American Vogue and Elle and worked on international campaigns.

Meraki Model Management

Meraki offers full management and talks up honest communication and long careers over quick wins.

It describes its relationship with models as family-like. Fine to ask about, but keep asking the practical questions too: what commission it takes and what's in the contract.

State Management

State handles models, fitness models and creators, plus other talent.

Check that it's open before you submit.

The Dragonfly Agency

Dragonfly is an independent model management company with a hands-on approach to building new models' careers from scratch.

Best for newer models who want individual attention rather than a place on a large roster.

How to spot a modeling scam

Real agencies earn money by taking a commission when you get paid for a job. Some basics:

• Never pay to sign. Reputable agencies don't charge upfront fees to represent you. Be wary of "registration," "portfolio" or "scouting" fees.
• Be careful with required photographers. An agency that insists you use its own photographer or studio, at your cost, is a warning sign.
• Be skeptical of pressure. "Sign today or lose your spot" is a sales line, not an agent's.
• Read the contract before signing. Ask what the commission is, how long it lasts and how you get out. Have a parent or lawyer look at it, especially if you're under 18.
• Look the agency up. Check that it has a real office, a website with a working roster and consistent reviews. Search the name with "scam" or "complaints."
• Meet in a public place. Take someone with you to a first meeting, and if you're a minor, a parent should come.

Last step: send submissions through each agency's own website, and only to agencies that look like a fit. Browsing other cities? We also cover the best NYC agencies and Seattle agencies.