AJ Alexander

AJ Alexander

Playboy Playmate, actress

“Knowing his list of clients and fellow models, working with Laurens has been a career highlight. He’s 100% professional and honest, and simply put is one of the best photographers. I had a great time on set and I’m looking forward to my next opportunity to shoot with him again :)”

Vanessa James

Vanessa James

40 magazine appearances and ads including Victoria’s Secret and Harley Davidson. Rockstar spokes-model.

"After 8 years of modeling if there’s anything I’ve learned it’s that the right pics are what keep me working. I have a book full of tear sheets but every six months I do another CAT shoot wiLaurens so that I have images that work when I’m casting. He’s an amazing photographer and creates indescribable images. But the best part is that they make me money!"

Athena Barber

Athena Barber

NASCAR and Skoal spokesmodel, Sports Illustrated’s “hottest girl of motor sports”, television host

Working with Laurens has opened so many doors for me. Laurens is absolutely great to work with and has gone out of his way to help me become successful. It goes without mentioning what a phenomenal photographer he is. Only after working with him do you realize what it means that he can capture "the shot" in the most difficult conditions!

Brittany Binger

Brittany Binger

Playboy Playmate, actress

“I’m a seasoned model and actress and thought I already had what I needed in my book. My agency sent me to Laurens to get new commercial images for a Victoria’s Secret casting and am I ever glad they did! I’ve never been happier with images before and can’t wait to get more!”

Carlee Ranger

Carlee Ranger

Model, actress

"I was at work when I met Laurens and he offered to shoot me. Normally it would have sounded like a line, but he seemed so above board I went for it and was I ever glad I did! I knew of his work but I never expected what happened next! I got internationally published and then became FHM Magazine's first ever Digital Darling! After that I moved to LA and worked on some films, and continued to work shoot with Laurens and FHM even getting to travel internationally! Thank you Laurens!"

Adrianna Costa

Adrianna Costa

Host, (Steven Spielberg’s “On the Lot)”, entertainment correspondent (CNN, Access Hollywood, E! News), actress

“Laurens makes every person he shoots look like a "10"! When Laurens takes your picture, you know he's good. When you see the picture, you realize he's PHENOMENAL!”

Erika Nicole

Erika Nicole

Television host, model

"I was very lucky to have my first professional shoot with Laurens…it literally changed my life!! My modeling career took off and now I’m hosting on TV!! I have worked with many photographers since that first shoot and Laurens is still by far my favorite! With his endless experience and industry knowledge, I became a better model every time we shot together!! He is always there for me, giving career guidance and solid advice, and I can’t thank him enough for what he has done for me!"

Holly Huddleston

Holly Huddleston

Model, actress (shot at Sunset Tan during the 2008 Los Angeles earthquake).

I have been modeling for a while and have come across so many photographers. When I was shot with Laurens for FHM the first time I didn't have any expectations, but the first shot he took, I literally shook like there was an earthquake! The whole day went great and the pictures were incredible! The second time was even more amazing and literally took my breath away! I sure hope I'll be able to work with the best photographer in the world again :)

Amanda Gift

Amanda Gift

FHM cover & Lingerie Guide, 25+ magazines including 5 covers - over 20 television appearances.

FHM has done incredible things for me and my career. I was amazed how much good fortune came to me from all the exposure, I have stayed busy since the very first time I was published!  Now, after multiple appearances (including a cover!) I’m experiencing life in a way I never imagined. I now represent many great companies, and meet countless wonderful people! All the exposure and credibility has helped me launch my acting career – wish me luck! Thanks to Laurens and everyone in the FHM family, you will be with me forever!

Holly Weber

Holly Weber

Model, actress (25+ magazines and calendars. 30+ films and TV shows)

Laurens was able to use his influence and incredible photos to get me featured in my first major national magazine. That exposure propelled my modeling career to a whole new level and has allowed me to expand into my dream of acting.  He has provided some of the best photos in my portfolio and I consistently receive fan mail asking for me to sign his images. Not only is Laurens a marvelous photographer, he has a wonderful personality, stellar character and has become a great friend.

Ashlan Gorse

Ashlan Gorse

E! News celebrity correspondent, E! Entertainment Televsion

“Laurens is flat out amazing.  He made me feel so comfortable and really listened to my ideas.  I couldn’t have asked for a better photographer and the proof is in the absolutely stunning photos he took of me.”

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Apply for a CAT-Shoot

cat_shoot_comp

Get Signed

Getting signed by a major agency is a requirement to becoming a successful model. Why? Because major clients book through major agencies, and independent talent gets the leftovers.

getsigned_introHowever, not everyone is qualified. Not all agencies do the same thing. And not all agencies are legitimate or can get you top work.That's why one of the goals of a CAT-Shoot is to help get you prepared for representation. If you're not doing a CAT-Shoot we'll still help you, read on and we'll tell you how to increase your chances of getting signed.

A quick note before starting: Becoming a model is a common goal, and to many, their dreams. Therefore, there are many people that try and take advantage of aspiring models, and perhaps more scams than almost any other industry. We'll be adding blog articles about things to watch out for, for now: Please be careful!

First, some common misconceptions:

  • You do not need a big or expensive book or modeling portfolio.
  • You do not need experience, in fact it can sometimes hurt you.
  • You do not need to be 5'9" to be a commercial model (but you do to be a fashion model).
  • You can become a fashion models without spending any money, even without a modeling portfolio.
  • College can be very helpful, especially for commercial models, actresses and hosts.

Positioning, the most serious mistake made:

Many models make the grave mistake of setting their sites on a genre of modeling they are not, and never will be qualified for. In turn they create improper modeling portfolios and pursue the wrong type of agencies. If you are unsure where your best suited, read about the different Genres of Modeling here. Knowing the genre(s) you're qualified for, and targeting that genre is extremely important. Positioning is paramount to success.

Polaroids the modern way:

Agencies want to see what you really look like which may not be what photographers want for their books, or even know how to take. With fashion agencies, "Polaroids" are what they want to see. Read below on how we can help you get them, or show you how to take them yourself.  

When you do the free agency submission at a CAT-Shoot, we take the digital Polaroids for free. For a $75.00 admin fee we'll make you a contact sheet so you can send them to any agency you like. Don't want, or can't afford a CAT-Shoot? They're really inexpensive but if you just want digital Polaroids to send agencies, click the image to learn how to do it free!

The types of images you see in the contact sheet at right are the most important images you can have when submitting digitally to fashion agencies, and again: You can do them yourself.

 polaroid_contact_sheet_example

CAT-Shoots and submissions:

We have to plug them here. At CAT-shoots we get you the right type of images.For the uniquely qualified, we may submit you to Click Models or Flick Talent (our agencies of choice). You can also submit yourself (for free) at the Click Models website. We'll send one or two images from your CAT-Shoot but even more important, we'll send them digital Polaroids which is what fashion agencies want to see (see below).

Images for your book (model portfolio) may not be what you think either. We explain mistakes made with images in the CAT-Shoot section. Even if you do not shoot with us, you should know what, and more importantly what not to send.


  • Model photographer modeling portfolio. The Model Portal - Get Signed!

    Get Signed

    get_signed3Getting signed by a major agency is a requirement to becoming a successful model. Why? Because major clients book through major agencies, and independent talent gets the leftovers.

    However, not everyone is qualified. Not all agencies do the same thing. And not all agencies are legitimate or can get you top work.That's why one of the goals for independent talent at a CAT-Shoot is to help get you prepared for representation. If you're not doing a CAT-Shoot we'll still help you, read on and we'll tell you how to increase your chances of getting signed.

     
    First, some common misconceptions:

    • You do not need a big or expensive book or modeling portfolio.
    • You do not need experience, in fact it can sometimes hurt you.
    • You do not need to be 5'9" to be a commercial model (but you do to be a fashion model).
    • You can become a fashion model without spending money, even without a modeling portfolio.
    • College can be very helpful, especially for commercial models, actresses and hosts.


    Three things to read that will immensely help you:    getsigned_intro

    Understand where you fit, and what your modeling portfolio should consist of. Please read:

     

    polaroid contact sheet example

    Polaroids the modern way:

    Agencies want to see what you really look like which is not what photographers want for their books. With fashion agencies, "Polaroids" are what they want to see. We take them upon request at CAT-Shoots and create Digital Polaroid Contact Sheets to submit to agencies. However, you don't need to book a shoot with us to get these important images. We'll show you how to take them yourself.  


    CAT-Shoots and submissions:      At CAT-shoots we get you the right type of images to submit to agencies. For the uniquely qualified, we may submit you to Click Models or Flick Talent (our agencies of choice).

    • If you're following our recommended path, it's time for Get Published

    About CAT-Shoots                     Apply for a CAT-Shoot                     Get Facts  

    blog tumb

     
    We go more in depth on subjects for both agency models and independent talent. Be sure to check the blog out before you leave.

    Everyone can learn more. Leave a comment or questions, we check it regularly.

     

  • Do I need a big modeling portfolio to get signed?

    No, you do not. It's a myth propagated by people who make money off them. If starting out, fashion agencies want to see you, or simple digital images of you without makeup or retouching. If they feel you need a bigger book (which you very well may) they will help you get the types of images you need. Please also read the section: "Will an agency ask me for money?"

  • How much experience do I need to get signed?

    Experience, especially the wrong type can work against you. Fashion agencies love young, inexperienced talent with no baggage and if you have the ingredients to be a fashion model, they'll bring them out in you. On the other hand, commercial modeling agencies do want skills, but generally prefer talent that isn't recognizable. Not having experience will slow you down from booking work with the agency, but they'll help you with that.

  • How tall do I need to be to get signed?

    Fashion agencies need talent that is 5'9" (5'8' in smaller markets) to 6'0" at the tallest. There are occasional exceptions for those a bit taller than the max, but if you are 5'7", you are not going to be a fashion model. The good news is that commercial agencies don't require you to be as tall, and promotional agencies can take all sizes.

  • Can you explain the different types of agencies?

    If you look towards the top of the page, you'll see a link in the paragraph that starts with "A common mistake.." that will give you a thorough explanation :)

  • Why do you offer shoots for models if a modeling portfolio isn't helpful?

    We didn't say it isn't helpful, we say it's not required, and also that a big one is unnecessary. We also say you shouldn't spend too much on pictures. There are pictures that help, and some that hurt too. The important thing is to be careful about any pictures you take (especially if you sign a release) and to understand you have options if you cannot afford professional photography.

  • What about open calls?

    Some agencies have open calls where you show up with your book (your modeling portfolio) where they can see and meet you first hand. This is usually the most effective way to get signed. You may think you can put a better foot forward with pictures, but they're going to meet you before signing you anyway. If you do not have a book, go in anyway - especially if you are young and starting out.

  • Will an agency ask me for money?

    Legitimate agencies don't have fees for signing with them. However, they may require you to pay for your own comp cards, and sometimes pictures. This can be a really grey area as many illegitimate agencies make a profit off selling you images for your modeling portfolio and never get you work. Watch for agencies that ask you to pay them for the photo-shoot, or those that insist on just one or two photographers. Bigger agencies may actually front the money for you for these things and later deduct them from your earnings.That is perfectly legitimate. Watch for sign up fees or fees to be on their website. As a general rule, if they make you suspicious it probably means you need to be very careful.

  • How do I know if an agency is a scam?

    That's the million dollar question. Ask around, Google them. Here are some safe national names: Click, Elite, Ford, Next and IMG. There are some big names (not those we've listed) that license their names to affiliate agencies that play under a different set of rules which creates another grey area. There are also some regional agencies that are just as strong as the national agencies in their area, for example LA Models in Los Angeles and about a half dozen in New York. Be careful, especially if asked for any money!

  • Nudity and agencies.

    There's very little nudity in professional modeling unless you include adult modeling in that definition. You won't be asked if you will pose nude by any legitimate mainline agency, in fact, experience posing nude, especially if published may cause them to pass. One the the most difficult roads to cross is from having a past as an adult model (including posing for otherwise legitimate publications such as Playboy), and then trying to get signed by a mainline agency. In our opinion: Stay way from nudity.

  • Are agencies exclusive?

    Some are, and some aren't. Most any agency will require you to be exclusive in their area and genre. For fashion models there of course are also "mother agencies" These are usually agencies in smaller markets that help you get started and then get seen by larger agencies. To be a mother agency you need to have an exclusive contract with your talent, something that all talent needs to be careful of. We'll probably post a lengthy explanation to all this is our blog sometime soon.

  • Someone said agencies aren't worth it because they take a commission!

    That's incorrect. A legitimate agency makes most their income off of commissions and it can be more than what they deduct from your pay. Often times they also surcharge the billings which is also legitimate. We've heard models say "I don't have an agency because I'd rather get my work myself and keep all the money". Anyone that says that is either stupid, or covering for the fact that they have been unable to get signed by a legitimate agency.

  • What about modeling schools?

    This is another subject that could make a great, and long article. You can learn some skills, but for the most part, most (if not all) modeling schools (as well as conventions) are a waste of money. They will all have a few success stories, but that's because of the sheer volume of talent that goes through the doors. If you have the ingredients, you can get signed as a fashion model with a digital picture, or open call. One exception can be commercial modeling which takes skills and developed talent. You can get those is college through the theater or drama department and get further educated at the same time.

  • I think what I need is a manager, not an agency.

    First, do not mix the terms "modeling agency" and "model management company" thinking they are different. Those are legal definitions for companies that almost always do the same thing. But agents and managers can be quite different. In a nutshell, an agent gets you work and a manger manages it. A typical scenario for a young model is to be with an agency (or model management company) and have a parent manage you. After all, no one will ever watch over you as well as a parent or close relative. However, just like their are many scam agencies, there are many "managers" who are not out for your best interest. Unless you are a huge earner, most legitimate agencies will provide everything you need from a management standpoint.

• About CAT-Shoots                  • Apply for a CAT-Shoot                  • About Laurens 

blog tumb

 
We go more in depth on subjects for both agency models and independent talent. Be sure to check the blog out before you leave.

Everyone can learn more. Leave a comment or questions, we check it regularly.

 

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Next available CAT-Shoot is: June 2
Email if interested in booking. 

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  1. - - - -

    "I was so nervous this being my first photo shoot but Laurens and his staff made me feel so comfortable and confident! Laurens and his staff are AMAZING!"

    Tara Hall;  Hutchinson, Kansas

  2. - - - -

    "Everything was great and the staff was awesome. Full of energy and lots of fun!!"


    Alexis;  New Smyrna Beach, FL

  3. - - - -

    "Laurens pics helped me get a better agency, I booked so many jobs thanks to them! The shoot was a lot of fun and I look forward to shooting with him again:-)"

    Melissa Cantatore, Los Angeles, CA

  4. - - - -

    "My experience with Laurens Antoine was a very positive one.  It's a very professional, fun environment.  The pace of the shoot depends on ones' experience in front of the camera and if you need assistance with posing, they provide guidance in a patient manner.  I absolutely loved my make-up/hair stylist!  She set the tone for my whole experience! :)"

    Brynn Baird;  Lawrence, KS

  5. - - - -

    "I have received many opportunities after shooting with Lauren's such as further magazine work and also filmed a Reality TV pilot which is set to air this year by a CBS affiliate! He opened many doors for me to advance my career due to his good work and his strong name in the Industry!

    Thanks Laurens"

    Tracy Lear;  Louisville KY

  6. - - - -

    "The experience as a whole was not only fun but I learned so much. I thoroughly enjoyed my time shooting with Laurens."

    Kirstee Criswell;  San Diego, CA

  7. - - - -

    "I did a Cat-Shoot in August and it was a wonderful experience. Laurens spent a lot of time discussing and giving me great advice on my career. I was very impressed with the photo shoot and learned so much from him. I get a lot of work with the photos I took with him!"

    Akacia Boven;  Irvine, California

  8. - - - -

    "My Full-CAT shoot was one of the best experiences in modeling that I have had. As a model with quite a bit of experience, I was able to learn from Laurens and the crew. They made the models as comfortable as possible and still managed to have a great time in the process. I can't wait to shoot with them again. : )"

    Angela Gayle;  Nashville, TN

  9. - - - -

    "I love working with Laurens and the whole crew! Everyone is so professional and passionate about their work which makes it so fun, but also such a great learning experience! :)"

    Alexandra;  Oak Park, CA

  10. - - - -

    "I had such a great time working with everyone, it was professional and fun and I can't wait to shoot with them again."

    Crystal Parnell;  Tulsa, OK

  11. - - - -

    "Shooting with Laurens and his team was a great experience for me. I was immediately welcomed and felt so comfortable the whole time I was there. I will definitely recommend Laurens as a photographer and would love to shoot with him again!"

    Jennifer Pitts;  Frisco, TX

  12. - - - -

    "Laurens Antoine helped me create a diverse portfolio with the highest quality images.  Within days of posting, those images propelled me way ahead of the competition and brought several new opportunities for published work."

    Tanah;  Whitestown, IN

  13. - - - -

    "Shooting with Laurens was a one in a lifetime experience. Him and his entire staff were so wonderful. They taught me so many little secrets I will use throughout the rest of my modeling career."

    JessicaKathrny Perry; Edinburgh, PA

  14. - - - -

    "Shooting with Laurens Antoine was such a great and rewarding experience that gave me a lot of insight and some amazing photo's which I've used to book numerous jobs since. The entire staff was very welcoming and friendly and made it a fun atmosphere to shoot in. I would recommend Laurens to anyone looking to make it in the modeling industry or just wanting some great pictures all around!"

    Abi Esmena;  Cincinnati, OH

  15. "Working with Laurens was awesome! I have never worked with such an efficient photographer and their team of people. I feel so lucky to have worked with someone that is an industry leader. He has such a great eye for what models want and need to propel their career!"

    Tammie Yip; Cliffside Park, NJ

  16. - - - -

    "My time spent with Laurens was everything I had wished for. They exceeded my expectations with flying colors and delivered an extremely enjoyable time and an outstanding product. The job opportunities I have received from them are unbeatable and the level of professionalism is refreshing.

    Thanks for everything!"

    Aubreyana Marie;  Seattle, WA

  17. - - - -

    "Working with Laurens Antoine was a dream! Laurens is an absolutely fabulous photographer, who captured the most beautiful photos of me. His staff is amazing, the made the experience stress free and a lot of fun."

    Lena;  Denver, Colorado

  18. - - - -

    "Laurens Antoine and his team are amazing. I have been modeling for a long time and I have never been so impressed by a photographer and photo team. They make you feel comfortable and beautiful in front of the camera. Laurens and his team pay attention to every detail to ensure that your photos look perfect. Thanks you guys, You rock!!"

    Brooke Mangum;  Salt Lake City, UT

  19. - - - -

    "Shooting with Laurens gave me the opportunity to show casting directors I was serious about my career by working with the best of the industry. I learned an immense amount from Laurens and his staff and hope to return soon. The photos I took are phenomenal and incomparable to anything else in my portfolio!"

    Ashley Hebert, Baton Rouge, LA

  20. "As soon as I walked into the door, I felt so comfortable and welcomed. I was blown away with the professionalism, execution of the shoot, knowledge of the entire crew, and dedication everyone had to make every shoot amazing. We had so much fun on the shoot, it was almost hard to leave. I am absolutely going to be using Laurens Antoine Photography again!"

    Alyssa Doyle;  San Antonio, TX

  21. - - - -

    "Shooting with Laurens Antoine was a great experience. I received a lot of direction, and was really pleased with how the photos turned out when they were finished. I also had the opportunity to shoot in designer clothes that were supplied to us from the Summer Elizabeth collection, which really made the photos turn out amazing!"

    Emma Zerner;  Los Angeles, CA 

  22. - - - -

    "Laurens and his crew are seasoned, passionate, and energetic people, they make it very easy to warm up to the camera and they're always helping you look your best on set! You will be amazed at how professional your photos will turn out, all due to the hard work and effort they put into each aspect of the shoot!"

    Jenny;  Denver, CO

  23. - - - -

    "Shooting with the Laurens Antoine team is an EXCEPTIONAL opportunity and experience for any model. I'm very proud to have the Laurens Antoine name in my book and it speaks volumes to the clients when they see it there too."

    Saffron Rayn;  West Hollywood, CA

  24. " I've worked with a plethora of photographers in the early stages of my career. If you enjoy working in an environment that is focused on your success, then Laurens Antoine is where you need to be. He is professional, fun and dedicated to every project"

    Sarah Figueroa, San Diego, CA

  25. - - - -

    "Shooting with Laurens is an experience  never to be forgotten!!  He keeps you laughing the whole time and caters the best food on the planet!!!"

    Deonna Marie; San Francisco, CA

  26. - - - -

    "The whole experience of shooting with Laurens was fabulous!! It was quick, yet efficient and tips given along the way that I am still referring back to. Having the hair and make-up artist on hand was great!! I felt like a movie star having them tend to the stray hairs and shiny forehead. The communication before and after the shoot has been wonderful. I never felt like I was missing out on anything. The trip was totally worth it and I hope to be able to take part in another CAT shoot soon. Thank you EVERYONE!!"

    Cortney Martinez;  Hughson, CA

  27. - - - -

    "Shooting with Laurens was an amazing experience. He made me feel so comfortable while shooting and the pictures turned out great!"

    Vanessa Robbins;  Portland, OR

  28. "I’m a stand-up comic that’s shot with Laurens Antoine twice and I would book again in a heartbeat. Their staff is professional and very pleasant to work with. Even though I was unsure of what to do, Laurens and his staff made me feel comfortable in front of the camera and I ended up with amazing  images that have helped me with my career. I highly recommend them! It was a great experience."

    Cathy Zukimoto; Los Angeles, CA

  29. - - - -

    "Working with Laurens Antoine was an amazing experience. He made me feel comfortable immediately and his team were very helpful and friendly throughout my shoot. The set designs, props, and hair and make- up were exceptional. I had no doubt the results would turn out as highly as my expectations and they did! I could not have asked for a better photo shoot! Thank you Laurens & Team! :)"


    Milanya Maria;  Los Angeles, CA

  30. - - - -

    "I learned more in my first shoot with Laurens than I did in nearly 10 years as an independent model. I wish I had done a CAT with him sooner, because it would have saved me the regret of wasted time, money and dignity trying to make things work with incompetent, so-called photographers. Laurens is the real deal." 

    Kristy Narkunas;  Portland, OR

  31. - - - -

    "Shooting with the Laurens Antoine team was amazing. They work with you in any way possible and are super friendly to shoot with."

    Samantha Bedolla; Diamond Bar, CA

  32. - - - -

    "Laurens Antoine is truly a magical photographer. His expertise and experience have given me some of my best pics ever!"

    Tara;  San Diego, CA
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