FAQS
What is a Mother Agency?
A Mother Agency scouts, develops, and places models with modeling agencies, serving as a mentor and advocate throughout a model’s career.
Why seek representation with KASEM Management?
As mothers in real-life, we promote a safe, transparent, and supportive environment focused on long-term career growth and well-being. As the only Mother Agency in Chicagoland, we offer our signed talent cost-free photoshoot sessions through our sister company, Sargent Studios Photography, to help build a strong portfolio before signing with an agency. This service is a KASEM Management exclusive.
Is there any cost for representation?
No. Legitimate agencies and Mother Agencies never charge fees for representation.
How does a Mother Agency get paid?
Models retain the standard 80% of their earnings*. The remaining 20% standard commission is either retained by the modeling agency or split equally (10%/10%) between the modeling agency and the Mother Agency. Representation by a Mother Agency incurs no additional cost to the model.
*Variances in commission within select international markets may apply.
What happens if KASEM represents me and I get signed to an agency?
KASEM Management and the modeling agency split the standard 20% commission, and the model receives 80%. We continue to submit the model to additional markets and oversee their development in the industry.
What happens if KASEM represents me and I don't get signed to an agency?
If a model is not signed by the end of our typical 2-year contract, there are no penalties, fees, or costs owed to KASEM Management.
Who is KASEM Management?
KASEM Management, established 2026, is a Mother Agency located in the Chicagoland region.
We place our models in the Chicago market, as well as other domestic and international markets. As the owners and lead photographers of Sargent Studios Photography, we bring over 30 years of experience in the entertainment, fashion, and commercial industries. We launched KASEM Management in response to high demand from the models and talent we have worked with over the years. While the agency itself is new, our background and industry network are extensive.
Who is Sargent Studios Photography?
Sargent Studios Photography is an elite commercial, portrait, and event photographer, serving top-tier clients internationally, for leading brands such as: Apple, Lincoln Motors, League of Legends, Konica Minolta, University of Chicago, and for many professional artists and musicians. You can view our work here:
How much time would I need to commit once represented by KASEM?
Most models work part or full-time and/or are enrolled in some kind of academics. The expected time commitments are based on the following projections of a theoretically-successful career:
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1-4 hour photography session provided by KASEM Management.
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Brief meeting with interested, local agencies.
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1-4 hour photography session with the agency's preferred photographer.
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<1 hour for local castings.
Once represented by KASEM, how quickly can I be placed with a modeling agency?
Because a Mother Agency has a direct line of contact with modeling agencies, our response time is typically 30% to 50% faster than submitting through standard agency portals.
Who does KASEM represent? What does KASEM look for in submissions?
We represent diverse models of all backgrounds, ages (18+), sizes, and abilities. We look for natural, unique, authentic, and healthy appearances.
Commercial and Print modeling has a broad range of acceptable heights and sizes.
General height standards for Fashion/Runway typically respect:
Female: 5'8"–6'0"
Male: 6'0"–6'3"
Exceptions are made for unique looks or specific industry trends, so we encourage all interested candidates to apply.
How long does it take to hear back after applying?
Due to the high volume of applications, we only respond to those talent choices we wish to move forward with. If we are interested in representation, you will hear back within 3 weeks (ranging from 24 hours to 21 days). If you don't hear back from us, please feel free to apply again in 6 months with new photos.
What is the process if KASEM is interested in representing me?
The process is typically as follows:
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KASEM sends contract to Talent.
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Talent reviews and signs contract, returns to KASEM.
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KASEM signs and sends Talent copy for their records.
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KASEM and Talent discuss goals, availability, and schedule test-shoot.
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KASEM provides model test-shoot and takes digitals.
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Talent receives digital album of test-shoot with rights for sharing, downloading, and/or printing.
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KASEM submits Talent to agencies:
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Best suiting Talent
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Based on discussed goals and availability.
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Talent gets signed with an agency and/or KASEM continues developing and submitting Talent till the end of contract term.
How long do I have to sign the contract once received?
If you are offered a contract, please review and sign within two-business days of receipt. This process adheres to the planning and timeline we will have set in place upon our decision to represent.
Can I have a phone consultation before I sign my contract?
While we are open to questions about standard operation and support thorough review of contracts, we do not meet with or have phone meetings in regard to our services or other information regarding how we run our business. industry connections, our signed talent, and so forth.
It is good practice to understand an agency before sending in a submission to any site, so we heavily encourage aspiring talent to read the FAQS on our site before submitting with us.
KASEM
MANAGEMENT