Lesson
Commissions & expenses
The client’s headline number and the amount that reaches your account can differ for several reasons. Ask for the breakdown before calling the whole difference “agency commission”.
Depending on the market and contract, you may see representation commission, taxes or statutory deductions, advanced expenses, travel, accommodation, tests or other agreed costs. They do not follow one worldwide rule.
Two markets, different rules
In the UK, GOV.UK says fashion and photographic modelling agencies cannot charge upfront fees for finding work; certain fees may be charged after work is found when the conditions are met and agreed. France regulates modelling agencies and image-rights remuneration through a different legal and collective framework.
There is no single percentage that works across markets. Even within one market, contracts may present the lines differently.
Mother agency
A mother agency may place a model with another agency or territory; FFAM’s professional glossary describes that placement role. How commissions are shared must come from the agreements involved, not a percentage copied from a forum.
For travel, ask who books the ticket, who advances accommodation, what will be reimbursed or deducted, and when. “Travel covered” is less useful than an issued ticket plus written confirmation of what remains your responsibility.
Sources: GOV.UK — Fees for fashion and photographic models · Légifrance — agency remuneration · FFAM — Professional glossary