Leesa Strawn

Paragon Models began 10 years ago on the Mississippi Gulf Coast in an industry that said would not succeed in Mississippi. Since it's conception Paragon has succeeded where others have failed.

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What does an AGENCY do for you?

Over the last 10 years, I have seen several modeling agencies come and go but I held steady and firm in my belief that there is such a thing as real people modeling agencies.  However, Some girls do not understand what an agency does for them, they call me anytime asking when are you going to so this or that, yes they call me, the owner, instead of a booker or manager assigned to them. My models in the southern states have never had an agency stay around long enough to know what an agency does for you.  They just dont get, they need me, I do not need them. An agency signs you, only after they are sure they can get you work. After signing, we go to work to help you get a nice portfolio, as this is needed on job assignments. Then we promote you through, trade shows, special events, promotions, car shows, conventions, fashion shows etc. Some models think, they will have work right away, but in many cases we can only send you out once you have learned etiquette, charm and grace. All of these things can be aquired. A girl can not take a few pictures with a photographer and say "I am a model!" There is a lot more to it.

We can not force a client to hire you.

I invest a lot of money in models, even before receiving any work for them. 8X10's and postage alone will cost an agent from 2000.00 to 4000.00 a year per model. We hope that we will recover our money when they go on paid assignments.

Desire will get you very far, attitude will not. You must have humility and be willing to take suggestion and direction.

You must respect what your agency is doing for you.