This is where you’ll find a living archive of my projects, the work I’ve done with clients, and chonicles of my adventures as I change the world.
I’m a Miami-based photographer + brand strategist focused on defying the odds and telling the dopest stories for clients who are interested in doing the same.
I believe stories are the vehicles that move culture forward and there’s nothing more important today than strengthening cultural integrity across the arts, urban environments, fashion, and hospitality.
Curiosity: What does an Agent have to say? Category: Interview
Taheerah McDougal was one of the lead agents at SELECT Model Management. She is known for her eye for spotting unique talent, cultivating a well-connected ecosystem of creatives, and her commitment to championing voices that bring nuance and progress to the industry. Her passion for sustainability has led her to start a lifestyle brand and venture into other creative projects.
1. WHAT KIND OF MODELS DO AGENCIES LOOK FOR TODAY?
Unique, authentic, and relatable — we all have that quirk we grew to love with time which makes us stand out as exactly who we are. When I find that in a model, I know someone else will see themselves in it, too.
2. WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT CRITERIA YOU LOOK FOR WHEN SIGNING A NEW MODEL?
I would say a willingness to listen, trust, and be flexible. With everything on social media today, there is this misconception that [quality] work comes easy. There should be trust in the agency’s direction to best support the model in achieving their dreams.
3. WHAT HAS MADE THE MODELS YOU’VE WORKED WITH SO SUCCESSFUL?
To piggyback above - trust and being malleable. Even when it wasn’t happening right away, they remained flexible and stayed with the vision and have now checked off some major bucket list goals!
4. WHAT ARE THE EXPECTATIONS FOR PORTFOLIO DEVELOPMENT AND MAINTENANCE FOR A MODEL?
It’s important to hit the ground in the right direction for new faces and stay current for a developed model. I like to see a new face test within 2 weeks of coming on board. A book should be fresh, elevated, and reflect the model’s current look (ie. hair changes, body, new tattoos, etc). In my opinion, a model should test every 3-5 months depending, twice a year at least.
5. HOW DO YOU APPROACH CAREER DEVELOPMENT OR GUIDANCE FOR THE MODELS YOU WORK WITH?
With open communication. As a team, we formulate a strategy plan with the model, but if at any point it’s not working, it should be communicated so we can reassess a better development plan.
6. IS INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT IMPORTANT THESE DAYS?
Yes! There’s so much knowledge to gain outside of “home” where you learn how other markets work, the expectations, and working with different types of clients you may not have worked with otherwise. I believe you can spot a well-traveled model when they walk in the door :)
7. IS IT TRUE I NEED 100K FOLLOWERS OR TO BE AN INFLUENCER TO BE SIGNED?
Not at all! A model who is consistent and stays engaged outweighs the number of followers.
8. WHAT KIND OF SUPPORT DOES THE AGENCY GIVE TO HELP BUILD A MODEL’S PERSONAL BRAND?
You have to look at the overall picture… building confidence, creating personal style, and amplifying their passions are all key.
9. SHOULD I FOCUS MY LOOK OR SHOULD I BE TRYING TO SHOOT FOR AS MANY BRANDS AS I CAN?
There is a time for gaining as much experience as you can, but overall you should be intentional. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
10. WHAT’S THE HARDEST PART ABOUT GETTING SIGNED?
Finding an agency that is equally excited about you as you are of them.
11. WHAT’S THE HARDEST PART ABOUT STAYING SIGNED?
Seasonal growth to maintain work in the market. Demand is always changing and there are periods where not everyone is right for everything.
12. HOW DO YOU LIKE TO SCOUT FOR NEW TALENT?
Scouting is 24/7, our eyes are always open! Events, open calls, traveling, walking the grocery store… people are everywhere.
13. IF I’VE NEVER MODELED BEFORE, HOW CAN I GAIN SOME EXPERIENCE BEFORE SUBMITTING?
It sounds cliché but practice in the mirror, and learn your angles and what feels good. Start taking photos with the support of your friends. If you want to go a step up, find local fitting or showroom opportunities in your area.
14. DO AGENCIES HELP MODELS DIVERSIFY THEIR CAREERS TOO? MAYBE MOVE INTO ACTING OR EVEN LAUNCHING THEIR OWN BRAND?
Absolutely. It’s my personal philosophy that modeling should be a catalyst to the next great opportunity.
15. HOW WOULD YOU RECOMMEND MODELS TO PREPARE TO VISIT THEIR AGENTS WHEN THEY’RE SIGNED?
Have your questions ready and dress appropriately in case they want to shoot digitals.
16. CAN I STILL GET SIGNED IF I HAVE AN ONLYFANS OR CREATE ADULT CONTENT TOO?
Sure, the right agency is out there.
17. HOW DO MODELS STAY RELEVANT BETWEEN JOBS?
Collaborating with fellow creatives (even if unpaid) and utilizing social media to showcase more of who they are outside of modeling goes a long way.
18. WHAT CITY DO YOU LIKE WORKING IN THE MOST?
Well, Los Angeles is home, but the energy of New York has a special place in my heart :)
19. WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT IN THE INDUSTRY RIGHT NOW?
There are some great, young designers and incredible, new creative directors in the fashion houses now, so much is evolving!
20. HOW CAN A MODEL STAND OUT TO YOU ONLINE?
Experienced or not, when I see someone who just sort of “gets it” stands out to me. It could be through personality, creativity, or style… the “it” factor is pretty real.
If submitting online, have all the necessary information ready upfront - measurements, digitals and video, past/present placement and/or experience, Instagram handle, and knowing a little background on the agency helps.
21. IF YOU COULD CHANGE ANYTHING ABOUT THE INDUSTRY, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Transparency, across the board. That’s all I can say for now without standing on a soapbox :)
If you'd like to have your question featured in the next "Ask an Agent" segment, click here to make a submission.