Pursuing a modeling career as a teenager is easier than you might think. While the fashion industry seems like an intimidating place, the reality is that the best modeling agencies will protect the interests and health of their models, and teens are no exception.
Most modeling agencies who work with children and teens understand that school comes first and will structure modeling opportunities around your academic life. Modeling as a teen is a wonderful way to get involved in media at an early age with opportunities that extend far beyond the runway.
If you’re looking to break into the industry early, read on to learn about the top six teen modeling agencies in the United States!
Future Faces (New York City and Miami)
As one of the only agencies on this list that works specifically with children and teens, Future Faces in New York City is a safe and expert teen modeling agency that will support your emerging career. Modeling manager Nina Lubarda leads Future Faces with offices in both New York and Miami.
Teens who work with Future Faces have gone on to model for Nike, H&M, Zara, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Reebok, The Children’s Place, and more. When you submit your application to Future Faces, the office carefully reviews and selects models to build strong relationships from the very beginning.
To submit to Future Faces, visit their website and fill out their registration form. To contact the agency, you can email info@futurefacesnyc.com, or call 215-203-6898.
Bella Agency Model & Talent (Los Angeles)
Located in America’s media and entertainment mecca, Bella Agency Model & Talent works with both adult and teen models. The company prides itself on its commitment to hiring a diverse group of models. Bella Agency has over 10 years of experience in managing, and Culture Trip ranked Bella Agency as one of the most diverse teen modeling agencies in the country.
In addition to print and commercial ad campaigns, Bella Agency also manages social media influencers. If you have a hefty social media following, they might be the way to take your online presence to the next level.
To become a model with Bella Agency, visit their website and head over to their submission form. You can also email infola@bellaagency.com, or call 323-462-9191.
Otto Models (Los Angeles)
Otto Models Agency is a mother company that manages the careers of models by connecting with smaller, affiliated agencies. Otto Models has partnerships with agencies all around the United States and the world, including Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Thailand, and Japan.
With both commercial and runway work, Otto Models is a well-connected and professional umbrella agency that emphasizes the unique interests and strengths of its models. Otto has a teen modeling division in addition to teams managing the careers of adult models.
To submit your information with Otto Models, visit their website and follow the instructions. The application asks for your age, height, weight, location, and contact information as well as a series of photos. To speak with a representative, contact newfaces@ottomodels.com through email, or call 949-258-4329.
Ultimate Model Management Inc. (Atlanta)
Ultimate Model Management Inc. (UMMI) is a modeling and talent agency with offices around the United States and Europe. Though its headquarters are in Atlanta, UMMI also works in New York, Los Angeles, Paris, and London. They manage models who work in print, editorial, commercials, runways, and showrooms.
In addition to managing the careers of their models, UMMI also offers modeling classes and one-on-one consulting, which are perfect for teen models or those just breaking into the business. UMMI has worked with major corporations, including Coca-Cola, Porsche, Macy’s, and Mcdonald's.
UMMI works with all ages, including teens. To work with UMMI, visit their website and fill out their talent application form, or email info@ummiagency.com.
TL Modeling Agency (Houston)
TL Modeling is a great management agency for Texas teens looking to get started as models. Based in Houston but serving all of Texas, TL Modeling Agency represents children, teens, and adults. They find jobs for models primarily in print and runway work.
TL’s clients notably include store brands like H&M, and their models have even gone on to walk in Paris Fashion Week! At TL, you sign onto a non-exclusive contract, which means that while working with them you can also work with other teen modeling agencies, allowing you to double your opportunities.
To maintain strong-model relationships, TL Modeling Agency is a selective agency. This means that not everyone who submits an application will receive representation. For consideration, visit TL’s website, fill out their form, and upload your photos. You can also email info@tlmodelingagency.com or call 855-856-6335.
BMG (National)
BMG is one of the largest modeling agencies in the country. Serving models based in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Orlando, Miami, and Atlanta, the BMG company connects models with high-profile clients.
Since 1993, BMG has worked with both United States-based and international clients. They are committed to showcasing diverse talent, with efforts to bring more body and gender diversity to their roster of models.
Submitting with BMG is simple; visit their website and fill out their application form. They will ask for body measurements as well as your shoe size. Be prepared to upload photos as well. If you would like more information, visit their contact page for emails and phone numbers for each location.
Hit the Runway!
Modeling is more than just posing for a camera. Working in the fashion and commercial industry requires business skills, versatility, and flexibility. Agencies will help you with the business and booking side of things, and working with a skilled agent will connect you to opportunities and advocate for your needs and health.
Models and agents should build a relationship with a foundation of trust and a shared vision for the model's career. After submitting to a teen modeling agency, take the time to discuss your options with the agent or manager, as well as your legal guardian. When everyone is on board and on the same page, your modeling career can take flight!