We Calgarians are known for our rugged nature and our ability to withstand the harsh winters of the Last Best West. However, unbeknownst to many, we’re also proud people who are not afraid to show off our beauty!
Our modelling scene might not have the same prominence as those found in Los Angeles or Toronto, but our city has produced a lot of famous models, like Lisa Kauffmann and Tricia Helfer.
So if you’re an aspiring model or a business in need of local talent, don’t pass up on these amazing modelling agencies in Calgary!
| How much do modelling agencies in Calgary charge for their services? The typical commission of modelling agencies in Calgary is 15% of the model’s fee. Please take note that the price may vary depending on the modelling agency and the terms of your contract. |
Table of Contents
1. Monica Model Management
Address: 638 11 Ave SW
Phone number: +1 587-894-6384
Business hours:
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (MON, WED, and FRI)
10:00 AM – 2:30 PM (TUES and THURS)
Monica Model Management is a modelling agency located in the Calgary Design District. Their founder, Eduard Soponar, named this agency in honour of his mother, who worked up to 18 hours a day to raise and support her son’s dreams.
Today, they work with many models in Calgary and can cater to businesses that are in need of male, female, and kid models. It’s amazing that they’re committed to diversity and have models of varying races in their lineup.
Another thing I adore about them is their launch of the No More event series. Here, they teach models how to stand up for themselves and avoid getting exploited and harassed in the hectic world of the modelling industry.
These are why I think they won the Best Modelling Agency Award from LUX Life Magazine in 2020.
Pros
- Diverse range of male, female, and child models
- Hosts the No More event series where models are taught how to avoid getting exploited in the modelling industry
- Winner of the Best Modelling Agency Award from LUX Life Magazine in 2020
Cons
- Limited business hours especially on Tuesdays and Thursdays
- Some models complained about not receiving any gigs
Customer Reviews
Cares about the safety of the models
“We are very grateful to be part of this amazing agency. They started in 2017 and now in 2020 they received the award for the best agency in Alberta!! We’ve been with them for over a year now, the director is such a great person to work with and he always shares with the models the goals he has for them and for the agency. He cares about the safety of the models as well (which is very rare to see in this industry). Thank you for letting my son be part of this agency. We’re very grateful.”
-Margit Mencsik, Google Reviews
Most professional model agency in this city
“My first impression about Monica Model Management is how professional they are. I was impressed from the beginning. Now that I know the ambassador, Eduard, I feel secure, safe and in good hands with him. All the purpose is getting you up, giving you what you need to succeed in this career. If you want to meet a team who works passionately it is the right agency. I am very thankful to meet these people in Calgary. Is the most professional model agency in this city.”
-Dariana Garcia, Google Reviews
2. Numa Models
Address: 908 17 Ave SW #213
Phone number: +1 403-460-5611
Business hours:
9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (MON-WED)
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (THURS-SAT)
Numa Models, based in the Beltline district, is a modelling agency started by Tamica Johnstone in 2006. With almost 20 years of experience in the industry, they actively work with various models, including men, women, non-binary, and kid models.
However, the thing that really excites me about them is their roster of influencers, which businesses can hire to help them increase their visibility on various social media sites like Instagram and Twitter.
Furthermore, I appreciate the fact that they continuously expose their talent through social media promotions and portfolio development programs. These can be useful in ensuring every model will have a steady supply of gigs.
Unfortunately, they charge a hefty sum to models who want that extra exposure. They also ask for a fee for initial photoshoots, which can be a turn-off for aspiring models.
Pros
- Diverse range of male, female, non-binary, and child models
- More than 15 years of experience
- Can provide continuous exposure to their models so they get gigs regularly
- Has social media influencers
Cons
- Above-average fees
- Charges a hefty fee for initial photoshoots
Customer Reviews
They provided me with incredible opportunities and exposure in the industry
“Working with Numa Models has been an absolute pleasure! From the moment I joined their roster, I’ve been consistently impressed by Numa’s professionalism, dedication, and unwavering support.
Not only have they provided me with incredible opportunities and exposure in the industry, but they’ve also fostered a safe, nurturing and inclusive environment where I’ve been able to grow both personally and professionally. The teams attention to detail, clear communication, genuine care for their models, massive development opportunities and fun networking events truly set them apart.
I couldn’t be happier with my experience at the Numa Network, and I wholeheartedly recommend them to any aspiring model looking for representation. Thank you, Numa, for helping me take my modelling career to new heights, for turning my dreams into reality, and going above and beyond to ensure models feel valued and supported every step of the way!”
-Rohini Bali, Google Reviews
We have had nothing but amazing experiences with Numa
“We have had nothing but amazing experiences with Numa. Not only are their staff amazing and reliable, especially Alyx. She has always gone above and beyond to help us. The Models Are also so amazing And so professional and prompt. We have been working alongside Numa for years now, and will continue to in the future. I would recommend them and their agency to everybody.”
-Monica B, Google Reviews
3. House of Wild & Co.
Address: 1933 10 Ave SW #301
Phone number: +1 587-971-9453
Business hours:
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM (MON, TUES, and THURS)
12:00 PM – 7:00 PM (WED)
House of Wild & Co. is a modelling agency located in Sunalta. Founded in 2022, it has a professional team of photographers, hair stylists, and makeup artists who can provide assistance to both veteran and upcoming models in Calgary.
What impresses me about them is their extremely diverse pool of models, which includes men, women, kids, pets, and mature (senior) models. They also don’t discriminate when it comes to body types, so both curvy and slim models are accepted.
As for their services, I’m glad to say that they offer portfolio development that includes photoshoots and social media exposure to raise awareness among their talent.
They also actively reach out to connect models with clients and help them secure a steady supply of modelling gigs.
However, I don’t like that on most days they’re only open for four hours, as that makes it harder for models to reach them.
Pros
- Has mature models and pet models
- Accepts all body types
- Offers portfolio development services
Cons
- Extremely limited business hours
- May take up to three business days to respond to applications
Customer Reviews
They truly care about their models
“Best agency ever!! I’ve been working with the directors since I was 15 and they have taken me under their wing and taught me so much helping me become the model I am today! They have gotten me so many amazing opportunities in Vancouver, Calgary and upcoming in New York!! They truly care about their models and I’m so grateful to be part of the House of Wild fam”
-Alaina Noseworthy, Google Reviews
Working with the House of Wild team has been an absolute pleasure
“Working with the House of Wild team has been an absolute pleasure. Their models are the epitome of professionalism, and what sets them apart is their strong focus on development and individualized training. This team goes above and beyond to ensure our booking needs are not only met but exceeded. They consistently go the extra mile to provide top-notch service.”
-Sean Parker, Google Reviews
4. Faces of Wendy
Address: 5222 130 Ave SE Suite 155 – 370
Phone number: +1 403-869-5066
Business hours: Available 24/7
Faces of Wendy is a modelling agency located on 130 Avenue in Southwest Calgary. It was founded in 2013 by Wendy Lumby, an Aboriginal Olympian who formerly competed as an alpine skier for Great Britain in the 1988 Winter Olympics.
Today, her agency is one of the largest in Calgary and is responsible for handling various models and actors in different industries. It’s honestly amazing to find out that they have provided principal and background actors in various media roles, including television, movies, commercials, and voice-overs.
Furthermore, their models have posed for magazine ads, billboards, and posters both locally and nationwide.
Another thing I should give them praise for is their policy of not charging any registration fees to new members.
However, it’s quite worrying to hear that some of their talents have complained of rude behaviour and last-minute appointment cancellations from their agents.
Pros
- More than a decade of experience
- Works with models and actors in various media, like TV, movies, and print ads
- No registration fees
Cons
- Some staff are rude
- Sometimes cancels appointments at the last minute
Customer Reviews
Well respected in the industry
“I’ve been with FOW for 6 years now and have recommended her agency to multiple people. Wendy is extremely hard working, professional, and well respected in the industry. Wendy and her staff communicate quickly and efficiently and I have always enjoyed working with them. If you’re looking for great representation, I would highly recommend joining Faces of Wendy.”
-Terri Haugen, Google Reviews
Wendy has been awesome!
“Wendy has been awesome! Thanks for all the hard work !! I’ve been working at this less than a year, and already I’ve been on set more than a dozen times. She answers my questions, and gives me critique when I need it. Great agent and bonus… has a sense of humour.”
-Jason Gleaves, Google Reviews
5. Sophia Models and Talent
Address: 1322 15 Ave SW
Phone number: +1 403-228-3610
Business hours:
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (MON-THURS)
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (FRI)
Sophia Models and Talent is another modelling agency you’ll find in the Beltline district. They were founded in 2010 by Bill Giofu, a former model and an expert in the modelling and acting industry since 1986.
Today, he runs this agency with his daughter Amber to promote a diverse pool of male, female, and child models. What’s awesome is that—thanks to Bill’s connections in the modelling world—he can provide gigs to his models not only within Canada but also in the United States, Asia, and Europe.
Another thing that amazes me about them is their willingness to help aspiring kid models make a break in the industry by offering intensive modelling workshops for only $225.
Here, kids can learn about posing, acting, dancing, the runway, styling, and make-up. They’ll also have the opportunity to participate in fashion shows where they can show off their skills.
Pros
- Founder has more than 30 years of experience in the industry
- Can provide local and international gigs to their models
- Offers modelling workshops for kids
Cons
- Hefty fee for initial photoshoots
- Sometimes forgets to respond to calls and emails
Customer Reviews
I really appreciate their professionalism, transparency, and hospitality!
“I’ve been with Sophia for over 5 years! Bill and Amber have always been very fair and supportive throughout my modelling endeavours, and they’ve had me casted in many amazing opportunities, whether it be the Calgary Airport for local work, or for Wrangler Jeans internationally. I really appreciate their professionalism, transparency, and hospitality!”
-Maher Latif, Google Reviews
Bill is a fantastic person to work for
“I have been with Sophia Models for years and along with an incredible sense of professionalism, Bill Jofu offers a friendly and family-like environment. I always felt safe and respected by the agency. Bill is a fantastic person to work for.”
-Rachelle Hitchner, Google Reviews
