Sutherland Models
Scam Prevention Advice & FAQs

Many prospective models are confused by mixed messages in the industry on what to look out for to prevent them from a scam.  Sutherland Models has been in business for over 25 years and has built its reputation on strong ethics, superior training and representation.

Unlike many other reputable agencies in the city, Sutherland Models also offers a training program.  This unique feature enables young, new models the opportunity to learn the trade in a professional and protected atmosphere. 

Yes you can learn the trade, how to walk on the runway, how to move in front of the camera, how to audition, and so much more. 

Sutherland Models gives you a head start with coaches able to leap you ahead of the crowd through professional training.

One of the most contentious sayings in the modeling industry is that if you have it you don’t need to pay for anything.  Well that is not entirely true.  Here are the goods.

When an agency takes you on there are costs associated with representing you.  These costs may include printing your portfolio photos, setting up a test shoot with hair stylists, makeup artists and photographers.  Other costs may include couriers, internet site upkeep, agency promotions.  And others may include travel and accommodation.

Whether you pay for these costs upfront or the agency advances them for you, you always pay for them one way or another.  And that is that!

Additionally, Sutherland Models has a training academy and, like any other school or training facility, will cost you tuition.  Sutherland Models has hired professionals like make-up artists, models, photographers, trainers, stylists etc, who are there to teach you the ins and outs of the modeling and fashion industry.  The training also introduces you to many aspects in the industry as not all students want to be models but would like to have the opportunity to explore other facets of the business like styling, makeup artistry and photography.  Further, many of the students take the training at Sutherland Models as it is the most incredible course to give you self confidence and self esteem.
 

For Established Models with experience and a portfolio,  the agency division at Sutherland Models does not charge for anything, but the standard charge backs and agency fee.  This is standard in Toronto, Milan, New York, and Paris etc.

The agency fee is 20 % which means that every dollar that you earn when signed with Sutherland Models, 20 cents goes to the agency.

A sign of a scam is when an agency offers you a photo package as a condition of being part of the agency.  A scam agency will profit from this photo shoot - and that is not how a legitimate agency operates.

Another sign of a scam is if an agency tells you that at 5'2" you can be a professional model…it is just not possible.  Professional models need to be at least 5'7" and preferably 5'8" and up.  However it is possible is that you could land TV commercials, or low paying modeling jobs for fun, charity and experience.

To join Sutherland Models agency, you need to know what you are doing! 

If you take a course great.
If you come from another agency and have experience great.
And if you are not sure of your potential at all and don't yet know what you are doing, then come in to see us and we will tell you!

Open call is for established models with a Portfolio. We welcome you to comne in any Wednesday between 1:00-2:00pm.

If you have no experience and are interested in Modeling, call Sutherland Models at 416-703-7070 or info@sutherlandmodels.com

Taking a modeling course might be one of the most important investments in a young persons' life. The modeling course is not designed to make you feel short or heavy as many parents have thought.

The modeling course will help all individuals be comfortable with their bodies, be proud of their statures and make the most of all of their assets. Time and time again we will hear what an amazing impact the modeling course has had on individuals. 

Here are some testimonials :

How do I know if an agency is reputable?

The best way to know if an agency is reputable and not a scam is to determine how long the company has been in business and who their clients are.

Sutherland Models has an amazing reputation having been in business for over 25 years. Sutherland Models work in Toronto and internationally for such clients as Flare, Fashion, Sears, The Bay, Holt Renfrew, Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, etc.

To check if another agency is reputable you need to ask a third party like a client (Sears) or other working models. You cannot rely just on their word as many a scam has boasted representing models that they never had. Do your homework.

What has always amazed Sutherland Models is the amount of calls we get checking the reputation of other agencies (who are scams!). When we ask why they are calling us they answer "because we know you are reputable". So we wonder….why not start with a reputable agency!!!

How much modeling should I expect to be able to do?

This is the million dollar question!  If you have the right look, the right stature and the right attitude then you could be the next Supermodel.  If you do not fit the mould then you may need to be realistic about the amount of work that is available to you, if at all.

There are different levels of modeling like there are different levels of acting. In acting, you can do community theatre or you can land a Toronto musical, or you could be the next star to Hollywood.  Modeling is the same.  You could do charity shows locally, you could model in Toronto catalogues, you could model in Korea or you could be the next big thing on the Paris runway.  Set realistic expectations so that you will not be disappointed.

Scam agencies will promise you the moon.  But remember if it sounds too good to be true then it probably is!

Do I need professional pictures?

Eventually any professional model needs professional pictures.  But you do not need them to apply to an agency.  A reputable agency will send you to get photos done with a photographer that suits your market.  A scam agency will profit from these photos.

Note that Sutherland Models school has a photoshoot included in the course.  Photos however are not included but you can purchase these from the photographer directly.  Sutherland Models does not require nor encourage any such purchases but leaves the decision to the individual student.

Do I need experience?

As with any business, experience is helpful but not necessarily a requirement. People who have modeled before may bring with them a certain amount of knowledge about the industry, but for those who do not have any experience, Sutherland offers a course taught by professional models to give you a head start.

How much money can I make as a model?

In Toronto, a professional model can earn $200 - $300 per hour or $2000 - $5000 per day.  Internationally a model can earn $2,500 US to $25,000 US per day.  Campaigns are the most lucrative, with potentially huge buyout fees! Being new in the business as a model, our student models can work for experience, exposure and/or a great day rate of $300.00 and up!

Do Sutherland Models' do television commercials, music videos and film?

Sutherland Models does not have an Acting Division but we do have models that act! Our models have been featured in Television Commercials, Music Video's and even Television Series!

Sutherlands also has Acting Training! Why not learn from the best? By participating in our television commercial program, students will learn from experienced actors.  Our training program includes performance and delivery techniques, improvisation, character development, monologues, and on-camera technique. The classes are limited to only a small number of people, as students will then gain more easily the knowledge and confidence required to land parts in this lucrative field.