From Dick’s Sporting Goods to Fisher Price, Pittsburgh models get their faces plastered on advertisements across the country.
By Natalie Neidrick
9/30/2004
The two agencies that make this possible are closer to home then some might think. Docherty Model and Talent Agency and The Talent Group are Pittsburgh’s main connection with clients ranging from GNC, Value City, and I.C. Light.
“Our roster is enormous,” mentioned Tom Watson, an agent at the Talent Group. “Our list goes on and on.”
Both of agencies also have offices in Cleveland where models receive regional and national exposure. Becky Thurner, an agent at Docherty, explained that there are many national advertisers stationed in Pittsburgh and several department stores that hold annual runway shows where the models can strut their stuff. These agencies work with the same clients so much that they begin to picture what type of model they want.
“We always submit the girls most skilled for the runway,” said Thurner. “Most of the time the client will request a certain model and the hardest thing is getting them to try someone new.”
A Modeling agencies main goal is to get their models work, which makes them different from a modeling school. Modeling schools charge aspiring models for classes where runway stars are taught how to work it.
According Watson, the agency does not look to see if a model paticipated in modeling classes. "Agencies book talent. You can't teach someone how to model," said Watson.
Docherty also does not require their models take classes. Thurner explained that it does not make a difference if models have prior experience.
"Schools offer a curriculam of training in a wide variety," said Thurner. "There is less of a screening process compared to agency where it is our job to get models hired. We are very extremely picky and selective."
Docherty and The Talent Group pick models they think would appeal to their clients. From working with clients over the years, talent agencies have an idea of they are looking for.
"I try to get inside the companies head," said Watson. "I have a wide array of clients and they're all looking for different things. It is all about variety."
Models from the Talent Group can make anywhere from $135 to $150 an hour, which can be a $1200 day. Watson mentioned that the models are gauranteed atleast $250 per shoot or runway show.
"Sometimes someone will get four bookings in two weeks and then not work for two months," said Watson. "I never know when a model will get work. It's a crab shoot."
The modeling business is growing in Pittsburgh. Thurner mentioned that the Shops at Oxford are doing a lot to boost the fashion industry in Pittsburgh. The growth in fashion opens more opportunities for the models.
"There is more interest in fashion in the city than ever before, but we're always competing with New York the fashion capital of the world," said Thurner. "Our goal is to keep local talent grounded and keep them current and fresh."
A person interested in modeling or acting should visit an open call at the Talent Group or Docherty. Aspiring models can also send a snap shot. However, Watson reminds models to always remember, "It's all about a models attitude. It's fun, it's good money, but it's serious work.”
Photo by Mukul Goel
Model : Natalie Neidrick
