New York City is home to a vibrant modeling industry, featuring a range of agencies from globally renowned firms to boutique establishments that cater to diverse talents and career stages. 

New York City stands as a global epicenter for the modeling industry, hosting a diverse array of agencies that cater to various niches and talents. Here's an in-depth look at some of the city's most prominent modeling agencies:

Prominent Modeling Agencies in New York City

IMG Models – A Global Modeling Based in NYC

Founded: 1987 (modeling division launched in 1994). Headquarters: New York City. Parent Company: Endeavor (formerly WME-IMG). Offices: New York, Los Angeles, Paris, London, Milan, and Sydney. Website: imgmodels.com

IMG Models is one of the most influential modeling agencies in the world. Based in New York City, it represents a wide range of talent, from supermodels and celebrities to next-generation stars. It’s recognized not just for representing iconic names but also for its progressive approach to diversity, body positivity, and inclusive scouting.

Notable Models Represented: Gigi Hadid. Bella Hadid. Gisele Bündchen. Ashley Graham. Hailey Bieber. Karlie Kloss. Liu Wen. Stephanie Seymour. Lily Aldridge. Kate Moss (previously associated)

What Sets IMG Apart: With offices in major fashion capitals, IMG can place models on global runways, major ad campaigns, and editorial spreads with ease. IMG popularized the "We Love Your Genes" (#WLYG) initiative—a social media-based scouting program encouraging aspiring models to tag photos for potential discovery. IMG has been at the forefront of embracing diversity in body types, ethnic backgrounds, gender identities, and age—reshaping beauty standards in fashion. Beyond traditional modeling, IMG often manages the crossover careers of actors, musicians, influencers, and athletes who are expanding into fashion branding and endorsements. IMG supports models in building long-term careers, encouraging ventures into entrepreneurship, activism, fashion design, and digital influence. Consistently ranked at the top of Models.com’s Industry Rankings, IMG Models is a benchmark for excellence in model representation.

IMG models frequently appear in: Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, i-D. Victoria’s Secret Fashion Shows. Campaigns for luxury brands like Chanel, Versace, Dior, and Louis Vuitton. TV, film, and digital content through cross-collaboration with Endeavor

Getting Signed by IMG: #WLYG Initiative: Aspiring models can submit photos on Instagram using the hashtag #WLYG for scouting. Online Submissions: IMG accepts digital applications through its website. Open Calls: Occasionally held in NYC and other cities.

Elite Model Management – A Legendary Modeling Agency

Founded: 1972 in Paris by John Casablancas. New York Office Established: 1977. Parent Company: Elite World Group. Offices: New York, Paris, Milan, London, Los Angeles, and more. Website: elitemodelworld.com

Elite Model Management has been instrumental in shaping the careers of numerous supermodels. The agency is known for its global reach and has played a significant role in the modeling industry.

Elite Model Management is one of the most iconic and historically significant modeling agencies in the world. Known for revolutionizing the concept of the supermodel, Elite has helped launch the careers of some of the most recognizable names in fashion history.

From the golden era of 1990s fashion to today's diverse modeling landscape, Elite has maintained a stronghold in editorial, runway, and campaign representation.

Supermodels Discovered or Represented: Naomi Campbell. Cindy Crawford. Gisele Bündchen. Claudia Schiffer. Linda Evangelista. Tyra Banks. Karen Mulder. Stephanie Seymour. Tatjana Patitz. Adut Akech. Vittoria Ceretti. Grace Elizabeth. Fei Fei Sun. Blésnya Minher

Elite Model Look
One of the most influential scouting competitions in the world, the Elite Model Look contest has discovered over 350 international supermodels, including Cindy Crawford and Gisele Bündchen. It runs annually in over 30 countries.

Elite is part of the Elite World Group, which includes sister agencies like Women Management and The Society. This gives models access to top-tier opportunities worldwide. Elite models frequently walk for major fashion houses like Dior, Balmain, Valentino, Versace, and Chanel. They also appear in global editions of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and campaigns for Estée Lauder, YSL Beauty, and more. While Elite is known for its high-fashion roots, it has evolved to embrace commercial modeling, digital influencers, and celebrity brand-building. The agency values both heritage and innovation.

How to Apply to Elite: Online Submission: Available via their official site. Elite Model Look: Compete via regional and international contests. Scouting Events: Held in major cities and sometimes during fashion weeks

Reputation: Top Tier in global modeling rankings. Historically significant as a pioneer in shaping global beauty standards. Influential in launching careers of many legendary models and maintaining relevance in the digital era.

Ford Models

Founded: 1946. Founders: Eileen and Jerry Ford. Headquarters: New York City. Offices: Los Angeles, Chicago, Paris, São Paulo, Miami. Website: fordmodels.com

Ford Models revolutionized the modeling industry by transforming models into celebrities. The agency launched the careers of renowned supermodels such as Naomi Campbell, Christie Brinkley, and Christy Turlington. Known for its nurturing approach, Ford Models set a prestigious standard in the industry.

Ford Models is one of the oldest and most respected modeling agencies in the world. It revolutionized model management by becoming the first agency to provide structured contracts, standardized pay, and career mentorship for models—essentially turning modeling into a professional industry.

Notable Alumni: Naomi Campbell. Christy Turlington. Brooke Shields. Veronica Webb. Carmen Dell’Orefice. Elle Macpherson. Jerry Hall

Today, Ford continues to represent a diverse portfolio of models and talent, including editorial, commercial, curve, men, and lifestyle divisions. A foundational agency that still commands respect in both editorial and commercial spaces. Ford represents models across multiple categories: Women, Men, Curve (plus-size), Lifestyle (real people), Artists, and Creators. Ford talent appears in campaigns for top brands including Estée Lauder, Ralph Lauren, Maybelline, and more. The agency has a reputation for carefully nurturing new faces into long-lasting careers.

How to Get Signed: Online Application via their official website. Social Media Scouting through tagged submissions. Open Calls are occasionally announced via social channels

Reputation: Known for its professionalism, longevity, and model-first approach. A leader in creating structured support systems in the modeling industry.

Women Management

Founded: 1988. Founder: Paul Rowland. Parent Group: Elite World Group. Headquarters: New York City. Offices: New York, Paris, Milan, Los Angeles. Website: womenmanagement.com

Part of the Elite World Group, Women Management operates in New York, Paris, Milan, and Los Angeles, representing top female models. 

Part of the Elite World Group, Women Management operates in New York, Paris, Milan, and Los Angeles. The agency represents top female models and is known for its commitment to diversity and inclusivity in the fashion industry.

Women Management is a high-end fashion agency with a strong editorial and runway focus. It is part of Elite World Group and complements its sister agency Elite by focusing on modern beauty standards, inclusivity, and creativity.

Notable Models: Adriana Lima. Jourdan Dunn. Isabeli Fontana. Behati Prinsloo. Lara Stone. Alek Wek. Sasha Pivovarova. Imaan Hammam. Sora Choi

Women Management models are frequently featured in Vogue, W, Harper’s Bazaar, and i-D. The agency is heavily involved in fashion weeks across New York, Milan, and Paris. Women Management has prioritized diversity and authenticity, leading the charge in redefining traditional beauty ideals. Offers career development that includes fashion campaigns, fine art collaborations, and social branding. While part of a large group, Women maintains a boutique-style intimacy in managing its talent.

How to Join: Submit via online application at their site. Attend casting calls (if announced). Engage via Elite World Group’s scouting campaigns

Reputation: Elite-level representation with a modern and fashion-forward aesthetic. Well-respected among high-end photographers, stylists, and designers.

Wilhelmina Models – A Legacy of Beauty, Fashion, and Commercial Success

Founded: 1967. Founder: Wilhelmina Cooper (supermodel). Headquarters: New York City. Offices: New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, London (partnered). Website: wilhelmina.com

Wilhelmina Models is one of the most established and widely respected agencies in the world. Founded by legendary Dutch-American model Wilhelmina Cooper, it has grown into a global force in both fashion and commercial modeling, representing a diverse range of talent including models, musicians, athletes, actors, and digital influencers.

Unlike agencies that focus solely on editorial or high fashion, Wilhelmina blends prestige and versatility, offering models opportunities in beauty, lifestyle, entertainment, and even sports branding.

Notable Models & Celebrities Represented: Coco Rocha. Nicolette Mason. Gabby Douglas. Nicki Minaj. Shawn Mendes. Zac Efron. Normani. Billie Eilish. Rebecca Romijn, Tyra Banks, Anjelica Huston

Founded by a model for models, the agency emphasizes professionalism, talent development, and long-term career sustainability. Strong relationships with major retail, beauty, and lifestyle brands like Target, Nike, Levi’s, Maybelline, and CoverGirl. One of the first agencies to promote body positivity and nontraditional beauty across its Curve and Talent boards. Wilhelmina helps entertainers and athletes cross into fashion and vice versa, with strategic branding partnerships. They actively scout nationwide and encourage online applications, maintaining a large and inclusive new faces board.

How to Apply: Online Submissions via wilhelmina.com/become-a-model. Virtual Castings and social media scouting. Walk-in Open Calls in NYC (check site for schedule updates)

Reputation: Considered a top-tier “Big 5” NYC agency. Balances high fashion with real-world commercial success. Respected for being model-centric and versatile.

VNY Models

Founded: 2001. Founders: Lana Winters (visionary agent) and Damian Tomczak (entrepreneur). Headquarters: 1133 Broadway, Suite 1516, New York, NY 10010. Website: vnymodels.com

A boutique agency specializing in developing top-tier supermodels, offering personalized career management. VNY Models is a boutique agency that emphasizes individuality and strategic career development. Known for crafting superstars who dominate global runways and campaigns, VNY balances creativity with personalized management.

VNY Models is a prestigious boutique modeling agency based in New York City, renowned for its personalized approach to talent management and its track record of transforming emerging models into international superstars. 

Since its inception, VNY Models has redefined boutique modeling by emphasizing creativity, strategy, and individuality. The agency is committed to crafting superstars who excel on global runways, in high-profile campaigns, and across pop culture platforms. 

Notable Talent. VNY Models has been instrumental in launching and managing the careers of several top models, including: Sean O'Pry: Recognized by Guinness World Records as the highest-earning male model. Nick Snider: Discovered at 17, he became a prominent face for brands like Prada and Sisley, and was ranked among Forbes' top-earning male models. Marcus Hedbrand, Julien Sabaud, Nina Maria, Nick Bryant, Milan Krouzil, Scott Walhovd, Anderson Noel, and Irina K. 

VNY maintains a curated roster, focusing on quality over quantity to provide individualized career development. The agency offers comprehensive support, emphasizing long-term career sustainability and personal growth. VNY models frequently feature in campaigns for luxury brands such as Prada, Valentino, Zara, and Brunello Cucinelli. The agency is known for discovering and nurturing diverse talent, turning "diamonds in the rough" into industry leaders. 

Industry Recognition. VNY Models has earned accolades for its excellence in model management: Consistently ranks among the top boutique agencies in New York. Models represented by VNY have achieved top positions on Models.com and have been featured in Forbes' highest-earning lists. 

Application Process. Aspiring models can apply to VNY Models through the following methods: Online Submission: Visit the official website and navigate to the application section. Safety Notice: Be cautious of impersonators. Always verify communications by contacting safety@vnymodels.com. 

NEXT Model Management

NEXT Model Management is a premier global modeling agency headquartered in New York City, renowned for its influential presence in the fashion industry and its commitment to diversity and innovation. 

Founded: 1989. Founders: Faith Kates and Joel Wilkenfeld. Headquarters: New York City. Global Offices: London, Paris, Milan, Los Angeles, Miami, Madrid, Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. Website: nextmanagement.com

NEXT Model Management has established itself as a leading force in the modeling industry, representing a diverse array of talent and connecting them with top international brands. The agency is consistently ranked among the world's top modeling agencies. 

Notable Talent. NEXT represents a roster of high-profile models and entertainers, including: Anja Rubik. Karlie Kloss. Abbey Lee Kershaw. Suvi Koponen. Ana Beatriz Barros. Arizona Muse. Anna Cleveland. Anok Yai. Binx Walton. Grace Elizabeth. Selena Forrest. Alexa Chung. Pharrell Williams. Jessica Alba. Lana Del Rey. Rita Ora 

These talents have graced the covers of major fashion magazines and led campaigns for top-tier brands. 

NEXT Model Management offers a comprehensive range of divisions to cater to various aspects of the fashion and entertainment industries: Women & Men: High-fashion editorial and runway models. New Faces: Development of emerging talent. Talent: Actors, musicians, and entertainers. Creators: Digital influencers and content creators. Artists: Photographers, stylists, and other creatives. Digital Artists: Specializing in digital content and virtual modelling. NEXT²: A division focusing on innovative and non-traditional talent. This structure allows NEXT to provide tailored representation and opportunities across various sectors. 

Application Process: Aspiring models can apply to NEXT Model Management through the following methods: Online Submission: Visit the Become a Model page on their website to submit your application. Requirements: Applicants must be at least 16 years old and provide personal details, measurements, and natural photos without makeup. 

NEXT emphasizes a commitment to diversity and inclusivity, welcoming applicants from various backgrounds.

Reputation & Industry Standing. NEXT Model Management is recognized for its: With offices in major fashion capitals, NEXT offers international opportunities for its talent. The agency is known for embracing a wide range of looks and backgrounds, reflecting the evolving standards of beauty in the industry. NEXT has been at the forefront of integrating digital talent and creators into the modeling world.

Their strategic approach to talent management has solidified their position as a top-tier agency. For more information or to explore their talent roster, visit nextmanagement.com.

CLICK Model Management

Founded: 1980. Founders: Frances Grill, Joey Grill, and Allan Mindel. Headquarters: 129 West 27th Street, Penthouse, New York, NY 10001. Website: clickmodelnyc.com

Committed to the safety and well-being of its models, CLICK is vigilant against scams and emphasizes professional representation. CLICK has expanded over the past 45 years, representing over 1,000 models across divisions including Women, Men, Plus Size, Runway, Showroom, and FIT. The agency maintains strong partnerships with key industry players and emphasizes professionalism and safety. 

Click Model Management is a renowned modeling agency headquartered in New York City, celebrated for its commitment to diversity, innovation, and personalized talent development.

The agency's name, "CLICK," pays homage to the sound of a camera shutter, symbolizing the artistry of photography and the collaborative efforts behind successful modeling careers. Over the past four decades, Click has expanded its presence across the United States, establishing offices in cities like Los Angeles, Atlanta, Miami, Philadelphia, and Boston. 

Notable Talent. Click Model Management has been instrumental in launching and managing the careers of several iconic figures in the fashion and entertainment industries, including: Isabella Rossellini. Uma Thurman. Whitney Houston. Elle MacPherson. Grace Jones. Talisa Soto. Gail O'Neill

These talents have graced the covers of major fashion magazines, led global advertising campaigns, and made significant contributions to film and music. 

Click Model Management offers a comprehensive range of divisions to cater to various aspects of the fashion and entertainment industries: Women: Mainboard, New Faces, Direct Fit/Showroom. Men: Mainboard, New Faces, Direct Fit/Showroom. Plus Size: Representation for plus-size models. Runway: Specializing in runway talent. Showroom & FIT: Models for showroom presentations and fittings. Television Commercials: Talent for TV commercial work

Additionally, Click maintains affiliations with: Flick East West Talents: A leading television commercial agency representing numerous actors and actresses. Framework Entertainment: A bi-coastal theatrical management and production company with clients renowned in film, television, stage, and music. These partnerships enhance Click's ability to provide diverse opportunities for its talent across various media platforms. 

Application Process. Aspiring models can apply to Click Model Management through the following methods: Online Submission: Visit the Become a Model page on their website to submit your application. Requirements: Applicants should provide clear snapshots or polaroids, including a headshot and full-length image. Photos should be taken without makeup, in natural light, wearing simple attire. Click emphasizes authenticity and natural beauty in its selection process, seeking individuals who embody confidence and individuality. For more information or to explore their talent roster, visit clickmodelnyc.com.

Each of these agencies offers unique opportunities and specializes in different aspects of the modeling industry. If you're considering a career in modeling or seeking representation, it's essential to research and reach out to agencies that align with your career goals and values.

Tips for Aspiring Models  

Breaking into the NYC Fashion Scene.

New York City is a global fashion hub, but it’s also highly competitive. If you're dreaming of being signed by a top modeling agency, preparation, professionalism, and persistence are key. Here are essential tips to guide your journey:

1. Start with Clean, Natural Photos

Agencies typically prefer simple, unedited snapshots — known as digitals or polaroids. These should include:

·       Prepare a Portfolio: Have a collection of professional photos that showcase your versatility. 

·       A clear headshot (no makeup, natural lighting)

·       Full-body photo (fitted clothing, plain background)

·       Side profile and smiling shot

 Avoid filters, heavy makeup, and overly stylized poses.

2. Do Your Research

Before applying, research the agency’s style, model roster, and reputation. Understand what kind of talent they typically sign — commercial, high fashion, curve, or lifestyle — and tailor your submission accordingly. Research Agencies: Ensure the agency has a reputable history and represents models in your category. 

3. Know Your Measurements

Most agencies will ask for:

·       Height

·       Bust, waist, hips (in inches or centimeters)

·       Shoe size

·       Hair and eye color

Keep these updated and accurate.

4. Stay Professional Online

Agencies often check social media. Keep your public profiles professional, consistent with your personal brand, and free from inappropriate content. Stay Professional: Maintain punctuality, a positive attitude, and professionalism in all interactions.

5. Beware of Scams

Legitimate agencies never ask for upfront fees for representation. Be cautious of “agencies” that require money for photo shoots or classes. Always check agency credentials via platforms like models.com. Beware of Scams: Legitimate agencies do not require upfront fees for representation or portfolio development.

6. Attend Open Calls

Many NYC agencies host open calls — in-person or virtual. This gives you direct access to scouts without needing referrals. Attend Open Calls: Many agencies hold open calls where aspiring models can meet scouts and agents. 

Example: IMG, Ford, and Click all offer open call schedules online.

7. Stay Healthy and Confident

Modeling is physically and mentally demanding. Prioritize wellness, nutrition, and sleep. Confidence, not just appearance, is what truly stands out to scouts and clients.

8. Practice Posing and Walking

You don’t need to master the catwalk overnight, but practicing poses in the mirror and walking in heels helps build your comfort in front of the camera or on the runway.

9. Be Ready for Rejection

Even top models face rejection. Stay persistent, keep submitting to different agencies, and continue improving your skills.

10. Find a Mentor or Join Workshops

Many seasoned models or former scouts offer workshops or coaching. Learning from experienced professionals can give you a competitive edge and insider knowledge.