Model / Actor Definitions

Acting Class – instruction in television, commercial, video, motion picture or theatre acting that a model may receive on a regular basis if the model is interested in acting.

Actor – anyone who portrays a character in a movie, television program, commercial, play or video.

Advertising Model – a model that does commercials, print ads and live promotions.

Ad Campaign – a series of advertising activities designed to promote a product, person, place, event, service, company or store.

Agency Book – a collection of headshots or composites of modeling talent. It can also mean a model’s portfolio whose cover has the agency’s name or logo displayed on it.

Agency Card – a card displaying a model’s photos and personal statistics, used to promote both the agency and the model.

Agent – an owner or employee of a model or acting talent who acts as a business representative for the model or actor. An agent is normally responsible for obtaining interviews, handling bookings, and negotiating fees on behalf of the model or actor.

All-American Look – a fresh, wholesome appearance typical of an all-American boy or girl as requested or directed by a client.

Casting Call – a notice, request, or invitation from a producer or casting agent to submit one or more actors/models photos, composites or demo tapes for review. It also may mean an invitation to appear in person for an interview or audition.

Child Model – a model who is under 18 and therefore considered a minor by law.

Commercial Model – a model that does work in commercials, radio ads or print ads for the purposes of advertising a product, service or company.

Composite/Comp Card – a card, sheet, folder or glossy photo on which two or more photos of a model or actor are displayed. Composites are used as promotional pieces to be given to prospective clients. A comp card is a smaller sized composite usually 5 x  8 with photos on both sides, also given to prospective clients.

Fashion Modeling – a field of modeling in models work for designers, manufactures, department stores, magazines, catalogs and fashion houses for live, photographic or video modeling of clothes and accessories.

Full-figured Model – a model hired for or specializing in the modeling of larger-sized garments and accessories.

Hairdresser – an individual who shampoos, cuts, colors, sets and dries hair.

Head Shot – a photograph of the head, usually a frontal view of the face and includes the hair, neck and shoulders.

Mark – the designated location on a set or stage where a model or actor begins the acting, speaking or modeling. It will be indicated by a small line or spot on the floor or ground.

Petite/Petite Model – a model that is smaller than average height usually 5’4” or under.

Specialty Model – a model hired for assignments requiring a specific look, skill, or special physical feature.

Tearsheet – a page or sheet torn or cut from a magazine, newspaper, catalog, brochure or other printed work. For a model a tearsheet is a visible example of and proof of work done in the professional marketplace. It is also called a clipping or cut-out.