Author: Michelle Brannan

  • Exploring the Top Casting Agencies in Los Angeles: 2024 Review

    Exploring the Top Casting Agencies in Los Angeles: 2024 Review

    Being a producer isn’t a job just anyone can do. It takes an eye for detail and a level head to oversee all aspects that go into producing movies, photoshoots, commercials, and fashion shows. And unfortunately, we know administrative burdens (like securing production insurance) and reduced resources can slow down the production process. 

    That’s why LÜK Network is focused on providing the partnership, tools, and support producers like you need to get the job done. 

    Since we aim to simplify the end-to-end production process, we compiled a review of some of the top casting agencies in Los Angeles for you to consider for your next production.

    Casting Agencies vs Talent Agencies

    Model at a photoshoot

    Casting Agencies

    The main objective of casting agencies is to find talent. They use briefs provided by producers to find the ideal person for the role based on a specific set of needs. Casting agencies facilitate the talent booking process to identify the best talent for the part.

    The talent’s agency handles the negotiations for contracts and fees on behalf of the talent.

    Talent Agencies

    Talent agencies provide clients with various services, including procuring work for models, singers, actors, writers, photographers, artists, and even athletes. They assist their talent by connecting them with major brands and managing their career.

    There are also smaller talent agencies, or boutique agencies, that only work with a select group of talent for industry needs. It could be for commercials, print, tv shows, movies, etc., and they work to provide top customer service to their talent.

    Best Casting Agencies Los Angeles

    Los Angeles is one of the most famous destinations in the world for actors and talent looking to break into the entertainment industry. With so many casting and talent agencies in the city, it can be overwhelming for aspiring talent and producers to know which are the best. So, we put together this list with some of the top casting agencies this year.

    Cast Partner

    Cast Partner logo

    Cast Partner is an international casting agency in partnership with well-known brands such as Harper’s Bazaar, Louis Vuitton, and GAP. With five offices worldwide, Cast Partner offers an extensive casting service focusing on building and maintaining relationships and representing multiple cultures and ethnicities.

    Services

    • Influencer casting
    • Product seeding
    • Talent payment
    • Engagement tracking 
    • Fee negotiation
    • Usage payment
    • Onboarding 
    • Marketing tools
    • Creative casting 

    Dan Bell Casting

    Dan Bell Casting logo

    Dan Bell Casting Inc. has been a leader in the real people casting industry for over two decades. They focus on seeking out faces that make a lasting impression and are relatable to the public. Dan Bell Casting has provided casting services for Adidas, Beyonce, and Disney.

    Services

    • Real people casting
    • Traditional casting
    • Athlete casting 
    • Body-double casting

    DM Casting

    DM Casting logo

    DM Casting Agency is a full-service fashion casting company with offices in Los Angeles, New York City, Paris, and Rome. They specialize in casting for fashion shows, magazine covers and editorials, brand ambassadorships, and more. Some major luxury brands DM Casting has worked with include Victoria Beckham, Tom Ford, Givenchy, and Versace.

    Services

    • Casting for fashion shows, advertising campaigns, covers, and editorials
    • Casting for special projects 
    • Talent ambassadorships

    Engage Artists Agency

    Engage Artists Agency logo

    Engage Artist Agency, founded in 2015, is a casting agency that represents actors, singers and musicians, dancers, writers, and mainly casts for film and television. This agency works to support talent in building and growing their careers. Besides casting, they periodically accept booking inquiries and submissions for film and television castings. 

    Services: Film and television casting

    Good People Casting

    Good People Casting logo

    Good People Casting is a full-service casting agency that casts nationally and internationally. This agency has experience finding difficult-to-find talent and niche casts but is specialized in the traditional casting process. Over the years, Good People Casting has worked with top brands such as Facebook, H&M, Gia Coppola, Google, and more. 

    Services

    • Real people casting
    • Film and television casting
    • Texas casting
    • Music video casting
    • Non-union comic casting
    • Voice-over casting
    • Spanish and bilingual casting

    JN Casting

    JN Casting logo

    JN Casting has been in business since 2001, providing comprehensive production and casting services to clients worldwide. They specialize in finding the best talent for fashion, film, sports, and tech projects for clients ranging from high-end and high-street fashion labels to cutting-edge or iconic lifestyle brands. JN Casting has worked on campaigns for brands such as Samsung, Macy’s, and UNIQLO. 

    Services

    • Traditional casting 
    • Real people casting
    • Influencer casting
    • Fashion casting
    • Film and television casting
    • Athlete casting
    • Casting for advertising across all editorial and digital platforms
    • Production launches
    • Store openings
    • Brand dinners
    • Contract negotiations

    Mel and Liz Casting

    Mel and Liz Casting logo

    Mel and Liz Casting have worked for the last 14 years to find the best talent and faces for global  brands and companies. They have had the opportunity to cast for commercials, beauty campaigns, testimonials, print, and more. Some of their most notable collaborations are Barbie, Google, and Verizon. 

    Services

    • Real people casting
    • Commercial casting
    • Comic casting
    • Voice-over casting
    • Beauty campaign casting
    • Print campaign casting
    • Spanish Language casting

    Red Penny

    redpenny logo

    Red Penny is a casting agency with over 20 years of experience crafting flexible, custom solutions to fit the scope, timing, budget, and creative criteria of their clients’ projects. Red Penny specializes in commercials, lifestyle, fashion, street, and real people casting with past clients including Chase Bank, Mercedes Benz, Cadillac, Chevron, and Microsoft. 

    Services

    • Real people casting 
    • Talent social media statistics and tracking
    • Interactive casting and talent management tools
    • Talent data management

    Rich King Casting

    Rich King Casting

    Rich King Casting has been in the game for decades with major credits such as the Kill Bill Franchise, Big Little Lies, Sully, and more under their belt. Spearheaded by casting director Rich King, they look for talent in any capacity, whether they are real people, extras, or performers for their projects. 

    Services

    • Film and television casting 
    • Real people casting 

    Shay Nielson Casting

    Shay Nielson Casting logo

    Shay Nielsen Casting is a worldwide casting agency and creative consultancy that collaborates with clients to select the best talent for editorial, movie productions, and advertising campaigns. They also specialize in street casting and discovering fresh and unconventional talent globally. Shay Nielsen has collaborated with Adidas, Balmain, Dior, Diesel, and Chanel brands.

    Services

    • Fashion casting
    • Street casting
    • Film and television casting 
    • Advertising and editorial casting
    • Commercial casting
    • Beauty casting

    Wulf Casting

    Wulf Casting logo

    Wulf Casting is a highly acclaimed, comprehensive casting studio specializing in casting for commercials, print ads, fashion campaigns, comedy, and branded content. With over ten years of experience, Wulf Casting has established a strong track record of working with influential brands such as Nintendo, Vogue, and Dior.

    Services

    • Traditional casting
    • Real people casting
    • Beauty and fashion casting 
    • Specialty talent casting
    • Casting for music videos
    • Film and television casting (union & non-union actors)
    • Children casting 
    • Photography
    • Production consulting

    Zan Casting

    Zan Casting logo

    Zan Casting focuses on discovering unique and genuine talent to help tell stories. They strive to create strong connections with their talent and clients and have experience working with famous figures and influencers. They source their talent through worldwide street casting and have teamed up with West Elm, Vera Wang, Netflix, Instagram, and others. 

    Services

    • Global street casting
    • Real people casting
    • Footage research
    • User-generated content
    • Influencer and celebrity negotiation
    • Voice-over casting
    • Talent support
    • Commercial casting
    • Fashion casting
    • Film casting

    How to Choose the Best Casting Agency in Los Angeles

    As a producer, you know that each production or project you work on is unique and requires the best of the best to make the vision come alive. That’s why we made LÜK Network–a production management love letter to all the producers out there. 

    LÜK Network is dedicated to streamlining the booking and production process for producers and teams. We have created an exhaustive platform that assists producers in booking talent, scheduling crews, sending independent contractor payments, managing taxes, and more.

    We’d love to show you everything we can do.

    Don’t miss the opportunity to create unforgettable images in the City of Angels. Discover how LÜK Network can enhance your Los Angeles production experience to transform your creative vision into a captivating reality.

  • 20+ Best Modeling Agencies in the United States (New York City, Los Angeles, & More) [2024]

    20+ Best Modeling Agencies in the United States (New York City, Los Angeles, & More) [2024]

    Producers in the photo world are a force to be reckoned with. Almost as a rule, these folks are formidable, fastidious, and fast. They’re the invisible hand behind every image we, mere mortals, take for granted as we encounter – billboards, print ads, commercials, instagrams, etcetera!

    That invisible hand is responsible to cast, coordinate, calibrate, and caffeinate the shoot. Be it budgeting, crewing, locating, or wrapping a shoot, there is a to-do list longer than is fun to consider. Their most precious resource in all of that is time – a luxury LÜK proudly saves on their behalf in the production puzzle. 

    There are thousands of modeling agencies throughout the United States that represent hundreds of thousands of models. As a producer manages the melee of production, it’s LÜK’s distinct pleasure to consolidate those masses into one beautiful, complete place.

    Furthermore, because the chief concern of LÜK is to make lives easier, we curated this list of some of the best modeling agencies throughout the United States for quick reference. We figured this review would be a great resource for anybody looking for how and where to draw a line between top-tier agencies and the perfect model for a particular shoot.

    Best Modeling Agencies in America

    To be clear, LÜK is not a modeling agency. LÜK is an all-in-one production platform for budgeting, managing talent and crew, and paying for your productions. And since we are on a mission to make your life easier, we are providing you with lists like these. This list isn’t exhaustive: there are incredible modeling agencies not listed here that absolutely rule in every way an agency could and should.

    Want to keep reading first? Then here we go…in no particular order:

    DNA

    DNA logo

    Location: New York

    In 1996, Jerome and David Bonnouvrier founded DNA Model Management, quickly gaining fame in fashion and modeling. DNA is known for its unique strategies tailored to individual models and its commitment to excellence. The agency has managed several noteworthy models, such as Linda Evangelista, Amber Valletta, Natalia Vodianova, Raquel Zimmermann, and Doutzen Kroes.

    Social Profiles

    Ford

    Ford Models logo

    Location: New York, Paris, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami

    Ford Models is one of the most prestigious modeling agencies in the world. Established in 1946, Ford Models has had a long history of representing a wide variety of models and helping them reach their potential. With offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia, Ford has had a global reach and has helped many models become international stars like Sigrid Agren and Daniel di Tomasso. 

    Also, in the last few years, Ford has branched out into other fields connected to the fashion world, including hair styling, makeup artistry, nail services, styling, set design, prop styling, art direction, and photography. 

    Social Profiles

    IMG

    IMG logo

    Location: New York, Los Angeles 

    Founded in 1989, IMG Models has become one of the world’s most powerful and influential modeling agencies. IMG represents some of the most recognizable names in the fashion industry, including Gigi and Bella Hadid, Ashley Graham, and many more. 

    In 2013, IMG decided to disregard traditional height, weight, race, age requirements, and any other factors that had previously been barriers to having a diverse range of models in its line-up. They have also re-opened their men’s division which was paused in 2007. 

    Social Profiles

    JAG

    JAG logo

    Location: New York 

    JAG is a fairly new modeling agency, but it’s on this list for a reason. JAG models have been featured in countless fashion magazines and have walked the runways of some of the world’s most prestigious fashion shows and campaigns including Vogue Italy. They are highly sought after in the fashion industry and have a unique mantra of representing all bodies regardless of size, shape, gender, and race. 

    Social Profiles: Instagram

    LA Models

    LA Models logo

    Location: Los Angeles 

    Founded in 2010, LA Model Management has become a leader in the modeling industry, representing some of the most sought-after models in the world. With the help of their experienced team, they are dedicated to nurturing the careers of their models and providing them with the best opportunities and resources in the industry. Their models’ portfolios have succeeded in the fashion industry, from runway shows to magazine covers for Calvin Klein, Louis Vuitton, Marie Claire, and Gucci. 

    Social Profiles

    Marilyn

    Marilyn logo

    Location: New York, Paris, Los Angeles 

    Founded in 1985 in Paris, Marilyn Agency has since grown to become one of the world’s most respected and influential modeling agencies for both men and women. With offices in Paris, New York, Los Angeles, and other international cities, the agency has worked with some of the biggest names in the Industry, including Chanel, Gucci, and Dior. They aim to create career longevity for the models and break fashion norms by pushing cutting-edge fashion trends. 

    Social Profiles: Instagram 

    Muse

    Muse logo

    Location: Seattle, Portland, NorCal, Las Vegas, Honolulu

    Established in 1996, MUSE Model Management is a renowned west coast modeling agency specializing in scouting, developing, booking, placing, and managing models worldwide. With an extensive roster of models representing a wide range of looks and styles, MUSE Model Management is dedicated to discovering and developing the next generation of top talent.

    Social Profiles

    Natural Models

    Natural logo

    Location: Los Angeles

    In 2011, Bradford and Katie H. Willcox established Natural Model Management. Katie had been a plus-size model for over ten years, granting her an insider’s knowledge of the fashion industry. Natural Models seeks to provide models with an environment that promotes personal health. They are encouraged to achieve a healthy body weight through exercising and eating right and participating in activities that promote self-care and love.

    Social Profiles

    New York Models

    NY Models logo

    Location: New York, Paris, London, Los Angeles, Milan, Tokyo

    Founded in 1990 by Heinz Holba, New York Model Management has become one of the world’s most respected and sought-after modeling agencies, with offices in New York, Paris, London, Los Angeles, Milan, Tokyo, and other major cities. With a client list that includes some of the world’s top models such as Sui He, Meghan Collison, and Amy Wesson. As their presence in the fashion world continues to grow, New York Model Management will continue to be a leader in the modeling industry. 

    Social Profiles

    Nomad

    Nomad logo

    Location: Los Angeles

    NOMAD MGMT has established itself as one of the fashion industry’s most esteemed personal management companies. In 2016, acclaimed supermodel Coco Rocha became an owner and model for NOMAD, bringing along a management team to make it a complete global booking agency for some of their chosen models and talent. Nomad Model Management is a unique and innovative agency that offers various services to aspiring models. It provides comprehensive services, including portfolio development, marketing and promotion, contract negotiation, and more. 

    Social Profiles: Instagram

    One Management

    One logo

    Location: New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Spain

    ONE Management is a top-tier modeling agency that celebrates the beauty of diversity. Their models showcase a brand’s story and experience to their audiences, whether in-person or through various online platforms such as print, social media, and video. With an impressive roster of successful models such as Anabela Belikava, Anyiel Majok, and Bar Refaeli, ONE Management merges fashion, music, television, and film to create groundbreaking international projects.

    Social Profiles: Instagram

    Society

    The Society logo

    Location: New York

    Founded in New York City, The Society Management is a top model management company that belongs to the Elite World network. It also serves as the U.S. division of the Elite Model Look  global contest to help discover new faces. The Society Model Management, Inc. is dedicated to fostering a safe and respectful workplace for all of their talent, free of discrimination or harassment. The company makes it clear they stand in solidarity with the black community in the U.S. and abroad in the face of centuries of systemic racism and injustice. 

    Social Profiles: Instagram

    Supreme 

    Supreme logo

    Location: New York, Paris 

    Established in 2000, Supreme is driven by its ambition to provide something different by working with natural models with distinct facial features. With the emergence of new talents showcased on social media, it became evident that clients were searching for profiles and individuals that surpassed those found in the realm of traditional beauty. Supreme NY provides exclusive, top-tier talent management. 

    Social Profiles: Instagram

    The Industry

    The Industry logo

    Location: New York, Los Angeles 

    The Industry is a high-end women’s boutique model agency with offices in New York and Los Angeles. They maintain an exclusive roster, offering personalized service to each model we represent. The Industry aims to discover new talent and cultivate successful and long-term careers for our models. In New York, they are headquartered in the iconic Pier59 Studios at Chelsea Piers, offering unrivaled access to international brands and talent. 

    Social Profiles: Instagram

    The Lions

    The Lions logo

    Location: Global

    The Lions Model Management is an international modeling agency that has become one of the most influential players in the industry. Founded in 2002, the agency has become a fashion and entertainment leader, representing some of the world’s most iconic and influential models. The Lions Model Management has established itself as a global agency with offices in Europe, Asia, and the United States.

    Social Profiles: Instagram 

    Two Management

    2M Management logo

    Location:  Los Angeles, Barcelona, Berlin, Copenhagen

    In 2013, Two Management arrived on the Los Angeles scene, quickly becoming the go-to agency for high-end advertising, catalog, and e-commerce projects. By the end of its second year, Two Management was the West Coast’s biggest agency for top models. Subsequently, the agency has also opened offices in Barcelona, Berlin, and Copenhagen, becoming an international agency with a global reach and a hands-on boutique management style for its talent.

    Social Profiles: Instagram

    VNY

    VNY logo

    Location: New York, Paris, Los Angeles, Milan

    Established by agent Lana Winters and entrepreneur Damian Tomczak, VNY is an elite New York boutique modeling agency specializing in transforming little-known models into renowned superstars. Through its hands-on approach, the agency is dedicated to helping models establish long-term and sustainable careers. With an unrivaled reputation and an expansive network of international contacts, VNY prides itself on finding “diamonds in the rough” and preparing them to succeed in the competitive fashion world.

    Social Profiles

    Wilhelmina

    Wilhelmina logo

    Location: New York, London, Los Angeles, Miami, Dallas

    Since its establishment in 1967 by Dutch model Wilhelmina Cooper, Wilhelmina Models has earned a prestigious reputation as one of the world’s leading talent management agencies. Offering a full range of model management services for women, men, and fitness models, as well as entertainers and musicians, like Demi Lovato, Nicki Minaj, Barbie Ferreira, and more.

    Social Profiles

    Women

    Women logo

    Location: New York, Paris, Milan, Los Angeles

    When Women Management first opened in New York in 1988, it had a mission to become a global leader in model management. Now, 30 years later, the Women network has offices in Paris, Milan, and Los Angeles, representing some of the world’s most sought-after fashion talents. Their approach to career development combines creativity with a sharp eye for business, always aligned with their core values of respect, trust, humanity, and social responsibility.

    Social Profiles

    Zuri

    Zuri logo

    Location: New York, Los Angeles

    Established in 2008, Zuri Agency is not just an agency but a family. Highly praised by casting directors and producers, Zuri has been sought after for its young talent. With offices in Los Angeles and New York City, Zuri’s talent has been featured in films, theatrical productions, commercials, and print ads worldwide. Every department is managed by skilled agents aiming to give their clients the best opportunities.

    Social Profiles

    How to Find the Best Modeling Agency

    As a Model 

    Before reaching out to a modeling agency, do some research! This is the fun part. Look at their board, agency ethos via Instagram, and website to see if their vision suits you.

    As you research, ensure that you’re looking for submission and portfolio requirements, any reviews of former and current models at the modeling agency, and target pay if that info is handy. It’s also important to be aware of upfront fees…the good ones don’t ask for upfront fees.

    And *of course* prioritize your safety by first verifying the identity of any scout or agency that contacts you directly. Reputable agencies will have direct numbers you can call to confirm outreach. One of the most common ways to tell if you’re dealing with a scam is if they ask for money or pictures of you. Make a U-turn if that sort of thing is asked of you. A really quick one.

    As a Producer

    We hope this list has been a helpful start. As a next step, consider taking a look at LÜK’s production platform, with integrated budgeting, crew management tools, and 1099 compliant payroll. All your production needs, on one easy-to-use platform. Set up a demo with our sales team and see for yourself. We can’t wait to meet you.