Envy Us! – An interview with Envy Us Models CEO Michael Sturgeon

As managing editor of GlamModelz Magazine, I had the pleasure of interviewing my very good friend and Model Agency Executive, Michael Sturgeon, who is the Founder/CEO of EnvyUsModels Agency of Dallas, Texas.

We discussed Fashion and Glamour Modeling industry trends, business aspects modeling and the benefits of agency representation for the model who is ready to take their career to the next level.

Jett Ray:  Michael, you have several businesses under your belt,  you are in the know about current events and trends around the metroplex, and have been blessed with a keen business acumen.  How did you get started in this industry?

Michael Sturgeon, CEO – EnvyUsModels: I guess it can all be attributed to a desire to see the city of Dallas become one of the nation’s fashion meccas.  I had started attending local runway shows, red carpet premieres and other “fashion events” and would often find myself liking what I saw but seeing many areas for improvement.  A lot of the time I would be enjoying myself but thinking how much better the overall presentation would have been if they did “this” or “that”, and saw a standard I just wasn’t happy with.  All the agencies seemed to be satisfied doing the same thing over and over again, and in my opinion, what was worse was that those attending the events were just as blasé about them as I was, but didn’t have other options to choose from.

JR: What are the challenges of starting/running a modeling agency?

Michael: A lot of the initial challenges are the same as any other business that is just starting off.  However, the fashion industry is unique in that it is very fickle and can change directions on a dime.  We have been fortunate enough to have worked with some of the most talented people, both in front and behind the camera, that this region has to offer.  Keeping things fresh, always pushing the bar, and building and sustaining momentum are keys to building a positive reputation.

JR: You are on the cutting edge of fashion and glamour in the Dallas area – and have to be!  Tell us about any changes in the Dallas fashion scene in your opinion.?

JR: Many models are not aware that there is a ”business” side of this glamorous industry.  What advice can you offer the glam/beauty model about managing their business affairs?

Michael:  “Decide what you want to do and commit to it.”  Everyone hears of the Cinderella story where someone is discovered walking through the mall and next thing they know they are on the cover of Elle, but trust me, that’s a winning lottery ticket that doesn’t happen that often.  If someone truly wants to succeed in this industry, my advice would be to be prepared to put in the work.  I can often be quoted saying “Modeling is like acting… just without a script”, and like acting, success often doesn’t happen overnight.  Be prepared to put in the time and effort to make your success a reality, and don’t expect someone to give it to you or for it to happen all on its own – it just doesn’t happen that way.  Like the perils of a struggling actor, be prepared for setbacks, discouraging reviews, and have the faith and determination that you will one day eventually experience some level of success if you stick to it and work hard enough at your craft.

JR: Any other advice for models, photographers or others in the industry?

Michael: “Never underestimate the value of choosing your partners and projects wisely.”  Again, this is an industry that is based on perception and reputation, and who you are affiliated with and the quality of your work are key to your future success.  I would recommend both to someone just starting off as well as to the seasoned professional, if the project isn’t something you’ll be proud of and can’t help advance your career, then you have to ask yourself why you would want to do it at all.  It’s all about setting a standard for yourself, your business, and for the local industry and then always trying to make the effort to push those standards and challenge others to exceed them.  Too many times I see businesses that try to put on shows and events weekly, and not unlike fast food the frequency simply dictates a lack of substance and feeling of fulfillment.

ZaZa Fashion Show

JR: What are your goals for EnvyUsModels?

Michael: Our immediate goals include continuing the amazing success we have already experienced, developing strong relationships with like-minded businesses in this wonderful state, and helping local models, photographers, and other industry talent to achieve their lifetime goals.  We will only consider our agency a success if Texas shares in our growth and prosperity, and continues to make strides to solidify its place as a fashion hot spot both nationally and eventually worldwide.

JR: Does a model have to pay to be with an Agency?

Michael:  Not a reputable one.  Talent should never be asked to pay for representation, this includes cost  for headshots, comp cards, portfolio development, etc.  Working with an agency should be a “no risk” venture, and something that is beneficial to both parties.  An agency receives it compensation by retaining a percentage of the monies it makes a model, this ensures that the agency remains motivated to find its models work.  Agencies that require payments should be questioned as to their genuine intentions, and are often businesses that are really mostly concerned with the number of models they can acquire and see their profits not from obtaining paying projects but from the fees they deem from their models.

Michael:  A portfolio, and the use of comp cards, are the equivalents of a resume to a traditional job seeker.  It is who you are as a modeling professional and a record of what you have done and thus potential can do.  One of the strongest ways to present yourself to potential clients, and sub sequentially the most powerful tool to secure projects, is to make a memorable lasting first impression. Normally this task falls on the agency that represents you, and just some of the tools they can use are your portfolio photos, tear sheet material (items from published sources that a model has appeared in), comp cards, and the traditional “go see” (a face-to-face interview).

JR:  What would an aspiring model need to do to become a part of the EnvyUsModels agency?

Michael:  I truly believe our success can be directly attributed to the fact that we have been so blessed to have had the opportunity to work with some amazingly talented people, and have been equally selective in the projects that we have accepted and taken on.

Rachel of EnvyUsModels Agency

A potential model that is looking to join our “Envy Us Models” family, and we honestly like to think of one another as family, needs to not only have the physical attributes we are looking for but also the personality and disposition we choose to associate with.

Jett Ray of Envy Us Models Agency

I would never go as far as to say there is a right or wrong “look”, or physical attributes, that will determine a models potential success, but if an aspiring model has the attributes and personality that fit with our agency’s culture, we would welcome all those interested in contacting us to discuss this in more detail.

Jennifer of Envyusmodels Agency

For More Information Contact:

Michael Sturgeon

Founder/CEO

Envy Us Models Modeling Agency

The Word Around Town Marketing Agency

Tel: 972.822.5697

Email: MSturgeon@EnvyUsModels.com

http://www.EnvyUsModels.com

http://www.myspace.com/EnvyUsModels

http://www.myspace.com/thewordaroundtown