One of the most common contracts you may encounter is the lead agency or parent agency contract. Your parent agency is often a smaller, local model agency that guides you through the modeling industry, helps build your portfolio, and advises you on career decisions. Parent agencies play a vital role in promoting their models to larger, more prominent agencies in key markets like New York, Paris, Milan, and Tokyo. By connecting models with bigger agencies, parent agencies help them secure high-profile modeling jobs in top publications such as Vogue and Elle, or with luxury brands like Gucci and Prada. Typically, a parent agency receives a commission on what the larger agency deducts, ensuring models can benefit from multiple levels of representation without extra cost in most markets.

Non-exclusive contracts are another option for models, particularly in commercial modeling. These contracts allow models to work with multiple model agencies simultaneously or even pursue their own modeling opportunities independently. While this type of contract may not provide as much guidance as an exclusive arrangement, it gives models greater flexibility to explore different types of work and maximize their career opportunities. Commission is only paid to the agency when they secure work for the model, making non-exclusive contracts attractive for those who are proactive in modeling.

For models seeking a more structured approach, exclusive contracts offer representation solely by one agency for a defined period, sometimes with restrictions based on location or modeling type. Exclusive contracts give model agencies significant influence over a model’s career, so it is critical to choose a reputable agency that prioritizes the model’s interests. Top modeling agencies, such as Ford Models or Wilhelmina Models, often rely on exclusive contracts to maintain their professional standards and ensure consistent career development for their models.

Finally, fixed-term or one-off contracts are common for single engagements or projects. These contracts end as soon as the job is completed, and it’s essential that all terms—such as compensation, image use rights, and restrictions regarding competing brands—are clearly outlined. Models benefit from working with a professional model agency to draft these contracts, ensuring that their rights and earnings are protected while navigating short-term modeling opportunities.

Understanding the variety of modeling contracts is essential for models at every stage of their careers. By knowing the differences between parent agency contracts, non-exclusive, exclusive, and fixed-term contracts, models can make better decisions, protect their interests, and build successful careers with the guidance of professional model agencies.