What’s a Mother Agent and Why It Matters

One of the first questions I get from new models and parents is, “What exactly is a Mother Agent?” It can sound confusing at first, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. A Mother Agent is your main representative — the person or agency guiding your career from the very beginning and looking out for your long-term success. They’re the ones who help you prepare, introduce you to agencies in different markets, and step in when things get complicated.

Sometimes your very first agency automatically becomes your Mother Agency. Other times, you’ll start with a Mother Agent first — someone who develops you with digitals, test shoots, and training — and then introduces you to agencies around the world. Either way, this role is the foundation of a model’s career.

A Mother Agent’s job goes far beyond just getting you signed. They guide your early development with digitals and test shoots, help build your portfolio strategically so you’re not wasting time or money, connect you with agencies in the right markets, and read through contracts to make sure you’re protected. They’re the ones thinking through long-term career strategy — whether it makes sense for you to start in Asia, New York, or Europe — and they’re also the people you turn to when problems come up abroad with housing, payments, or agencies. It’s the kind of support that makes the difference between feeling lost and feeling like someone has your back.

One of the biggest questions is always about payment. Agencies typically take 20% of what you book. From that amount, your Mother Agent receives 5–10%. You don’t pay extra, and it doesn’t come out of your share — it’s simply a commission split between your agency and your Mother Agent.

This is why having a Mother Agent matters: a market agency will always think about their own territory first. A Mother Agent, by contrast, is thinking about you and the big picture. They know when contracts don’t make sense, when a rate isn’t fair, and when an opportunity could actually hurt your long-term growth. They also know which agencies are strong partners and which ones aren’t worth your time. Instead of bouncing around from one random opportunity to another, you’re moving with purpose and strategy.

Whether your first agency ends up being your Mother Agency or you start out with a dedicated Mother Agent, having someone in this role changes everything. It’s the difference between being signed and being managed. Between reacting to whatever comes your way and building something sustainable. Between confusion and clarity.

A good Mother Agent is more than a nice-to-have. They’re your advocate, and your guide in an industry that can feel overwhelming without one.

Big hug,
Brooke

Ready to take the next step? Explore my courses designed to guide models, parents, and agencies through every stage of the industry.