The Best NYC Agencies for New Faces
Finding the right modeling agency can make or break your career start. In this post, I want to share mentorship-driven advice on how aspiring models should approach agencies in NYC, and highlight a few of the strongest agencies that welcome new faces. My goal is to guide you—whether you dream of editorial spreads, runway shows, or commercial print work—toward an agency that fits your ambitions and helps you grow.
Getting started in New York means recognizing that agencies vary in size, focus, and approach. A top agency isn’t always the best place for every beginner. Bigger names (like Ford or IMG) dominate the fashion world, but they often sign only a handful of fresh faces and expect experience. New models might thrive better with agencies known for nurturing talent from the ground up. Before diving into names, consider what matters most: editorial vs. commercial work (high-fashion magazines versus catalogs and advertising), an agency’s reputation with new talent, and the personal culture and support they provide. The right agency will guide your development, build your portfolio, and handle bookings professionally.
Preparing to Approach Agencies
Before contacting any agency, make sure you have a polished portfolio that shows your potential—simple test shots and snapshots of your best looks. Many agencies for new faces in NYC look for versatility and a confident attitude, not just polished experience. Keep in mind these key factors when choosing an agency:
Agency Focus: Some agencies specialize in high-fashion editorial and runway, while others excel in commercial print or lifestyle work. Identify which area aligns with your look and goals. For example, if your strength is high-fashion runway, boutiques like Women Management (Elite World) or The Society might be ideal. If you’re more versatile, larger agencies like Ford or Next offer both editorial and commercial divisions.
Culture and Support: A close-knit agency can be very helpful for beginners. Agencies that invest time in new talent (offering coaching, test shoots, or even constructive feedback) often have smaller teams and personal touch. Ask current or former models about their experiences—agents who give you confidence and clear guidance can become valuable mentors.
Legitimacy: Avoid any agency that requires money upfront or guarantees jobs. Legitimate agencies in NYC will arrange portfolios and attend casting calls on your behalf rather than charging you fees. They should not ask for inappropriate photos or fee payments. Always double-check any open call invitations through an agency’s official website or social media pages.
With these considerations in mind, here are a few of NYC’s top agencies that are known for helping new faces break into the industry. Each has a strong presence in editorial, runway, or commercial print (often all three), and welcomes fresh talent with varying levels of experience.
Top NYC Agencies for New Models
Ford Models (New York): One of the most iconic agencies, Ford represents both legendary supermodels and up-and-coming talent. For new faces, Ford can be a great home because they have a rich roster of editorial and commercial clients. Their global connections mean you could walk in top runway shows or book campaigns once you have a solid portfolio. Ford often scouts at schools and open calls, and they provide new models with guidance on posing and market knowledge. Keep in mind Ford is competitive, but if you fit their vision (distinct look and professionalism), they will nurture your career.
Next Management (New York): Next is known for its balance of high-fashion and commercial work. They’ve signed both big editorial names and diversified talents. As a new model, Next might interest you because they run “Mother Agency” development and have divisions in major cities. New faces at Next often benefit from their in-house scouts and digital talent team. The agency focuses on building each model’s brand (including social media strategy), which is crucial in today’s market. If you have a unique look or strong visual presence, Next can help you find editorial work and runway shows while developing your professional skills.
Women Management (New York): Part of the Elite World network, Women Management (often associated with Elite Model Management) is a boutique-style agency with a high-fashion reputation. Women Management is known for its editorial eye and for representing models who walk in top runway shows (like New York and Paris Fashion Week). For new models, Women360 (a division of Women/Elite) offers a specialized route—they often scout for fresh faces both online and at events. This agency prides itself on diversity and empowering models. If you fit a high-fashion aesthetic and want personalized attention from a passionate team, Women (NY) can be a good choice.
Wilhelmina Models (New York): Wilhelmina is a full-service agency with one of the longest pedigrees in NYC. They represent models in all categories: editorial, commercial, plus-size, and even artists and singers. For new faces, Wilhelmina offers a lot of structure: they hold open calls regularly and invest in test shoots and portfolio development. Because Wilhelmina is broad, new models might start in their development division before moving into more specialized work. Their size means you can eventually get exposure to various clients (luxury brands, big retailers, etc.). I’ve found that Wilhelmina is very businesslike, which can be reassuring for new models learning professionalism on set.
DNA Model Management (New York): DNA is renowned for high-fashion editorial and runway success. They launched careers of many top models by placing them in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and major runway shows. For a new model, DNA’s strength is their strong network and focus on image-driven work. They scout constantly (even on social media) and have a smaller roster compared to the biggest agencies, so new talent can stand out. DNA is selective, but if they sign you, they’ll work you hard—booking you for test shoots, digital campaigns, and putting you in front of top photographers and designers. This can accelerate your rise if you thrive under attention to style and detail.
Heroes Model Management (New York): Heroes is a younger, boutique agency that has gained a solid reputation quickly. They explicitly focus on developing new faces, both women and men. If you want a more personal experience, Heroes might appeal to you: they emphasize storytelling and image building for each model. The agency founders are very hands-on and often attend local casting events, spotting talent in the New York fashion scene. Heroes’ lookbooks and meet-ups give new models a chance to get known by top clients. In my experience, agencies like Heroes treat their new models almost like family, guiding them through early shoots and even helping with styling advice.
State Management (New York): State is another boutique agency known for its international network (offices in Tokyo, London, etc.). They’re selective with fresh talent but offer global reach—NYC models with State often find opportunities in Paris or Tokyo editorial markets. State looks for unique faces and strong personalities. Because they have fewer clients, new models at State tend to get more runway and editorial attention than they might at a larger agency. If you have a distinctive look and are open to international work, State can be a smart launchpad.
Muse Model Management (New York): Muse is a smaller agency that prides itself on high standards and a tight-knit approach. They’ve placed models in fashion week shows and magazines, but because they handle fewer talents, new faces may find more accessible personalized support here. Muse often scouts through referrals from photographers, so building good relationships (like with your photographer on a test shoot) could increase your chances with them. Many of their clients say Muse feels like a boutique with big-agency connections—meaning you get personal attention alongside real industry exposure.
Each of these agencies has its own flavor. Some come from long-standing fashion houses, others are newer names making waves. In all cases, what matters most is that an agency aligns with your goals and treats you as a developing partner.
Final Thoughts
Breaking into modeling in New York requires resilience and proactivity. Once you’ve done your research and targeted a few agencies, follow their submission guidelines carefully—this might be an online form or attending an open call in person. If an agency invites you for a meeting, come prepared with your simplest portfolio (no heavy makeup or filters) and a ready smile.
After signing with an agency, continue working on your craft. Use every test shoot and casting as a learning opportunity. Stay professional on set by arriving on time, following instructions, and building good relationships with photographers, stylists, and other models.
Remember, an agency is just one part of your journey. Stay true to your personal style and build confidence through experience. With the right agency, hard work, and a bit of patience, you can transform from a new face into a professional model. I’ve seen it happen many times, and I believe that with dedication and the right guidance, it can happen for you too. Good luck on your path in the Big Apple!
