Kim Dawson, Campbell, Clutts, Wallflower. Everyone knows the major players in the Dallas modeling and talent scene. With top faces and years of proven excellence, these are the competitors to beat.
Enter four new area agencies looking to take on the market. With innovative means of operating and a fresh perspective on local talent, these contenders aren’t shy about asserting themselves. Today we’ll get to know a bit more about each, and find out what sets them apart.
The Dragonfly Agency
“It’s always all about [the model]. If we can help them get somewhere, then that’s what we’ll do.”
– Makenzie Mainard, Print Coordinator
Founders: Stasia Langford and Leah Macaulay
Established: September 2012
Focus: Editorial and Runway with a Global Feel
The Basics:
The Dragonfly Agency is known for its cool vibe and more laidback approach. But that doesn’t mean they don’t put in the hard work. The boutique agency’s talent roster spans the industry, from models to hair and makeup artists, to budding wardrobe stylists. The agency touts its ability to showcase this wide range of talent through print, runway, and online editorials.
What makes Dragonfly different?
The Dragonfly Agency is “contract-less.” It operates with the family mentality, “we’re all in this together,” and communication is key. Technology also plays an important role in the booking process. Claiming there are no “regions” anymore, Dragonfly encourages talent to test with new and creative photographers and experience global markets.
Callidus Agency
“We are extremely dedicated to our clients. We believe in Dallas, Texas, and this market.”
– John Kolinofsky, Founder
Founder: John Kolinofsky
Established: August 2010
Focus: Talent and Modeling
The Basics:
In Latin, Callidus translates to “artistic excellence through experience.” Managed by two UNT graduates with more than 14 years combined experience in Hollywood, the Callidus Agency is a small full-service agency based in Dallas. It maintains heavy ties to the West Coast. Representing all ages, Callidus strives to keep a focus on the founding agents’ two areas of expertise: on-camera broadcast and fashion and commercial print and runway.
What makes Callidus different?
With clients in several different areas of media, beyond just modeling, Callidus formulates individual plans for career growth and development. Whether a client’s talent is professional sports or runway, Callidus works to provide every opportunity in the marketplace.
Prestige Model Management
Founder: Micah Blehm
Established: February 2010
Focus: Wide Range of Talent, Multi-City Presence
The Basics:
Prestige Model Management is a Dallas-founded full-service agency now boasting an increased presence across the country. Prestige caters to a wide spectrum of modeling talent. It has developed several agency divisions to better serve its clientele, with offices currently in Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and Miami.
What makes Prestige different?
Prestige Model Management presents talent through exceptional marketing tools. The agency applies the latest technology available for complete model and talent training, as well as agency coaching.
Amores Management
“There is nothing that resists Love. It is the sole force of creation.”
– Amores Mission Statement
Founder: Luis Basteri
Established: June 2013
Focus: Edgy and Classic Talent with a Latin Influence
The Basics:
Amores Management is a brand-new boutique agency representing models for fashion, print, and runway, as well as talent for television and film. Having just opened its doors late last month, the main focus for Amores is scouting new talent. The agency’s founder (pictured above, left) is the youngest agency owner in Dallas.
What makes Amores different?
According to founder Luis Basteri, Amores is the first bilingual agency in Dallas. It aims to place a heavy focus on the Latin American market. Like several top international agencies, Amores will use the most advanced booking and talent management system available. In addition, with his strong ties to bookers from top agencies like Request and DNA, Basteri hopes to offer a new and strong pool of talent.
Lead image via Dragonfly Agency. Inset images, credit individual agencies.