A modelling database for promotions and marketing and a license to operate is the requirement needed to open an agency for modelling and ushering.
Yes. Each state has its own requirements so you can check out this URL to a site called the Association of Talent Agents: http://www.agentassociation.com/frontdoor/agency_licensing.cfm
The best way to approach modeling is to have a contract and be represented by a professional modeling agency, whose job it is to find work for you. Visit modeling agency websites and see what photos they require and send in your pictures and information or attend an open casting call if the agency is holding one.
Companies like Anthropologie put out open castings to local modeling agencies in their area so they are not technically tied to just one modeling agency. Whichever agency has the models with the right look is who they will choose to book their models from.
Modeling agencies do not contact people--you have to go to them. Unless you are approached by a modeling scout, you will have to go to an agency's open casting call or submit your pictures via email or snail mail. Only if the agency is interested in you, will they call or email you to come in for an interview.
It is important to know what type of modeling you fit the requirements for. Doing an online search for modeling agencies in your area will give you results. Check out the websites of these agencies and see what their requirements are and what images they want. If you fit what they are looking for then submit yourself or attend an open casting call. If the agency is interested in you they will offer you a contract. But you must be located in an area where there is a good modeling market. London is a prime modeling market for example.
You can get discovered by a modeling agency's scout, attend an open casting call at an agency where you can bring your snapshots and be evaluated by the agency staff or you can submit your photos and information via email, online form or regular mail.
It all depends on the agency and what is stated in the contract, which is why it is important to read your contract before signing it. The most common consequences of breaking a modeling contract include automatic termination from the agency or legal action. But it also depends on what you mean by "open." There is no such thing as an open modeling contract...you may be thinking of a non-exclusive modeling contract, which allows models to sign with other agencies.
Yes, because you are working with "talent" and acting as an intermediary between the clients and promo models. However, each state has different requirements for such things so it would be in your best interest to go online and search your state's official website to find out what documents, licenses, etc. are needed.
Yes, a model is considered a "performing artist" and the laws governing talent agencies in Florida revolve around protecting "performing artists".
You'll have to send your headshot and photos to modeling agencies that represent the type of modeling you meet the requirements for. It is best to look into agencies that are within a 2 hour's drive of where you live. Check out the agency websites, which will give you information about what kind of photos to send, if they hold open casting calls, and how to send them (snail mail, email, etc).
Send in your pictures to modeling agencies in your town along with your measurements and contact information. It is best to visit their websites online to see what the specific requirements are. Also attend open casting calls where you can interview with the agency without needing an appointment. You can do a simple online search for modeling agencies in your city/state and get a list.
Modeling scouts typically discover new models at places like malls, amusement parks, beaches, restaurants, and/or areas near the modeling agency location. Aspiring models also attend open casting calls at modeling agencies or submit their photos via email or snail mail and if the agency likes their look, they will offer them a modeling contract.