Shine Model Management

The modeling industry tends to gets a bad name, this is due to the negative media attention it sometimes gets. I do agree that this instances should be broadcasted, much like in any company in any industry. The modeling industry mainly gets a bad name as there are those agencies that pretend to be a reputable and are not.

These agencies pretend to get work and book jobs, however they actually fund the company by simply charging innocent, naive models a fee to join their books. No legitimate agency would ever ask for a fee from a new face model. This fee can be dressed up in so many manners. I have heard it described as a ‘portfolio fee’, ‘website costs’, ‘test shoot’, ‘admin costs’ etc… but however it is labelled, it should not be paid.

Please never hand any money over to any agency no matter why they say they need it to represent you. It can sometimes be as little as £10 or $25 up to £500 or $1,000. Just think if they charged every single person on their books that fee, why an earth would they need to get clients?  If you are approached by an agency that would love to represent you then, by all means go for it, as long as you never have to pay one penny, you have nothing to lose!

- Emily McCarthy

I started Shine in 2006, to bring to the industry an ethical and moral approach. I asked from each and every model from day one, not only did they have the looks to succeed in this competitive and at times brutal industry, but to have the right attitude and personality to handle how harsh it can be at times. It is vital that a model takes care of themselves; maintaining their hair, teeth, skin and health, but in my eyes, it is just as important to be reliable and committed. You are a partnership and each and every booker works extremely diligently on each campaign, so it is critical that the model delivers on the shoot date or runway show; not only looking fantastic, but also arriving in plenty of time with the correct attitude for the job.

Shine is one big family in which each model is treated as we would expect to be treated by our family and friends; with dignity, honesty and respect. This is the recipe for success behind Shine as I treat every model how I wished to be treated when I was a model. It is a relationship that needs to be completely pure and true. I am sure you can ask our models that we represent in the UK and USA and they would agree… if you don’t feel this way about your agency, perhaps it is time to consider what else is out there.

– Emily McCarthy

When I was younger, I remember having role models such as Audrey Hepburn, Marilynn Monroe, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. And even thought these characters are a very random mix, the one thing I think I was always inspired about was, natural beauty.  I never liked the look of unnatural boobs, long hair extensions and liposuction. All the women I have admired in my life; including my Mum and Grandma are all naturally beautiful. Yes they spend money on themselves, from nail and hair appointments, but they are 100% natural.

My family and I all love our food and drink, so we just make sure we exercise on a regular bases so we can continue to enjoy ourselves and avoid at all costs going under the knife. I think its fair to say, if you have a tragic accident and you need surgery for medical reasons or you have undergone some form of illness, then of course cosmetic surgery can be necessary. I do feel strongly that we should all make the best of ourselves and embrace who we are. Maybe having a tweaks along the way i.e getting rid of any grey hairs, but all in all, you cannot beat the sight of someone who is 100% naturally beautiful.

– Emily McCarthy