When you sign an exclusive contract with a modeling agency in London, England, you can only be represented by that agency for the duration of the contract. Each agency is different, however, and the term “exclusive” may be limited by time, geography or type of modeling (ex: commercial or editorial). This means that you may still be able to have other agencies, but you have to make sure you are following the rules laid out in your contract and may not be able to sign with anyone else without clearance.
This type of contract gives a lot of power to the agency, so if you are considering an exclusive contract it is even more important to make sure you are working with a reputable modeling agency that has your best interests as a priority. It is also a good idea to sign a short-term contract with them so that if you feel like they are not upholding their end of the deal, you aren’t stuck.
Non-exclusive contracts are common with commercial models and give models much more leeway with their careers. These agreements allow the model to work with as many other agencies as they would like in a specific market. Because of the increased flexibility of the model, you may not receive as much hands-on guidance, but there are certainly significant benefits to this type of contract as well in London, England. Namely, if you find work on your own you do not owe the agency you have a non-exclusive contract with any money, and if they find it for you, they earn a commission.