This is a detailed guide on how to start a modeling agency in Nigeria.
Are you interested in starting a modeling agency in Nigeria? Modeling business is a very lucrative business in Nigeria.
A lot of persons wish to start a modeling agency, but don’t know how to go about it.
Though starting a modeling agency in Nigeria can be very challenging, however, with the right steps and guidelines, you can walk over it.
If you wish to start a modeling agency in Nigeria, this guide will help. In this guide, I will show you start a modeling business in Nigeria.
Types Of Modeling in Nigeria
Modeling agents serve as middlemen between models and clients. They build them, train them and most of all, help them find jobs.
There are different types of modeling agencies in Nigeria, and they differ according to the niche the agent wants to go.
Below are the common types of modeling agencies in Nigeria.
- Runway modeling agencies: they represent runway models, displays shoes and dresses at fashion shows
- Commercial modeling agencies: they handle television magazine jobs
- Body parts modeling agencies: these ones specialize in people with unique body features. Pretty face or pretty fingers or glowing skin for instance. They promote products restricting to their unique feature
- Promoting modeling agencies: they deal with advertising new products. Their talents aren’t necessarily fashioned models but they are people who can project the image of the product or company perfectly.
Steps for Starting a Modeling Agency In Nigeria
Below are the procedure for starting a modeling agency in Nigeria.
1. Get Experience
The need for gathering experience before going into any business can never be overemphasized.
Getting the necessary experience in the fashion industry not only gives you an edge but also gives you a heads up on how it’s being run.
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In the same vein, getting experience in modeling business is very relevant if you wish to start one.
This prepares you for challenges ahead and equips you with the knowledge on how to keep the business afloat.
2. Choose A Niche
Before you start a modeling agency, you need to first pinpoint the niche you wish to specialize in. By niche, I mean the type of modeling agency you wish to run.
When you narrow down your niche, it will help you focus on one, and become competitive in it.
Hence, before starting your modeling business, it is advisable you define your niche and focus on it. If you are not too sure which niche or type of modeling you should choose, you can start by carrying out an informal survey.
3. Register Your Modeling Agency
Before you can operate any business legally in Nigeria, the business has to be registered with the appropriate authorities.
One of such authorities that you must register with first, is the Corporate Affairs Commission of Nigeria. The Corporate Affairs Commission of Nigeria or CAC is the body saddled with the responsibility of registering businesses and companies in Nigeria.
Before now, registering a business or company in Nigeria was very stressful. However, you don’t have to go through stress anymore to have your modeling agency registered with CAC.
Now, you can register your business or company with the Corporate Affairs Commission, right from the comfort of your homes.
Registering your agency with CAC is very easy. Here is a step by step guide to register your Modeling agency with the Corporate Affairs Commission of Nigeria.
Aside from registering your agency with the Corporate Affairs Commission of Nigeria, your agency should also be registered with the relevant modeling bodies in Nigeria.
4. Consider Your Budget
Considering an office location when you are on a low budget will cost you more, but starting the business from home will cut the cost initially.
You’ll need a computer and internet access to enhance working from home. And if ever you need a photoshoot for your portfolio or a client, you could rent a studio.
Funds will also need to be raised for design, including for a website, sales collateral, marketing effort including online ads, and for a portfolio of company work.
5. Market Yourself
Even as you put things in place don’t forget it’s never too early to market yourself as an agent as this helps you attract models and clients.
6. Build A Talent Network
Before scouting for models, you must build your team because you’re only as good as your team.
It’s very essential to have at least one excellent photographer, a lighting crew, and a skilled make-up artist. Ask for their portfolio and resume to check references.
7. Scout For Models
Scout for models according to your preferred niche. Put up an advertisement on the internet, in the newspapers starting the type of model needed and vital statistics.
Once applications start coming in, go through them, and shortlist the ones that best fit your standard then calling in for a physical screening and select.
Hire a professional trainer for further training because in as much as you represent them, they also represent you.
8. Search For Clients
This is where your experience in the industry comes into play. It’s expected that during your course in the fashion industry, you might have come in contact with one or two clients and therefore this can be used to your advantage.
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As you are to utilize the contracts you’ve made during your stay in the industry. You can also contact make-up artists, advertising agencies, photographers, and designers for job opportunities.
9. Legal Aspect
This part shouldn’t be ignored. A legal agreement must be drafted out between your model and the client whenever a contract is made available for them.
An attorney must be hired because the signed contract protects them and protects you.
10. Patience And Perseverance
Modeling business requires patience and perseverance. For instance, the fashion industry is highly competitive, especially for Runway modeling agencies.
You must be patient as it might take quite a while before your agency becomes very popular.
With all of these steps carefully applied, you’ll best be on your way to running your very own modeling agency.
That’s all on how to start a modeling agency in Nigeria. I hope this guide on how to start a modeling agency in Nigeria helps?