Looking for modeling agencies in Salt Lake City? Utah has a small but active market for print, commercial, fashion, and on camera work, and a handful of established agencies represent most of the working talent in the state. This guide covers the best known Salt Lake City agencies, how to submit, what agents look for, and how to avoid the scams that target new models. If you would like help getting started, fill out the form below and our team will reach out.
Key takeaways
- Established Salt Lake City agencies include McCarty Agency, TMG (Talent Management Group), NIYA, and newer Strike Agency.
- Legitimate agencies earn a commission when you book work. They do not charge large upfront fees to represent you.
- Most agencies accept online submissions with simple, natural photos (digitals). You do not need an expensive portfolio to apply.
- Utah work is mostly commercial, print, catalog, and regional film and TV, with some talent also working in Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
Modeling and talent agencies in Salt Lake City
These are some of the longest running and most recognized agencies in the Salt Lake City area. Always check each agency’s own website for current submission guidelines, open calls, and the types of talent they are looking for.
McCarty Agency
McCarty has operated in Salt Lake City since 1974, making it one of the oldest agencies in Utah. It represents models and actors for print, commercial, and on camera work and is a common first stop for new talent in the state.
TMG (Talent Management Group)
Founded in 1996, TMG represents actors, models, and voice talent and connects them with producers, casting directors, and advertising agencies. It has worked with national brands and is well known for commercial and voice over bookings.
NIYA
NIYA opened in Salt Lake City in 2012 and represents models and actors for fashion, print, and commercial work in the Utah market.
Strike Agency
Strike Agency launched in Salt Lake City in 2025. Its founders focus on presence, personality, and potential rather than strict size or follower requirements, and they emphasize mentorship for newer models.
Other boutique agencies operate in Salt Lake County and Utah County as well. Whichever agency you consider, use the checklist in our scam red flags guide before you sign anything.
Types of modeling and acting work in Utah
- Commercial and print: ads for local and national brands, outdoor and lifestyle companies, healthcare, banking, and tech.
- Catalog and e-commerce: Utah is home to many direct to consumer brands that shoot product and apparel photos locally.
- Film and TV: Utah offers a state film incentive through the Utah Film Commission and regularly hosts film, series, and streaming productions that hire local actors and background talent.
- Industrial and corporate video: training videos, product demos, and internal company content.
- Fashion and runway: smaller than in Los Angeles or New York, but local shows, boutiques, and designers do hire models.
How to submit to a Salt Lake City modeling agency
- Take simple digitals. Clear, well lit photos with little or no makeup: a headshot, a three quarter shot, and a full length shot in fitted clothing. Natural window light works well.
- Know your stats. Height, bust or chest, waist, hips, shoe size, hair and eye color.
- Follow each agency’s instructions. Most use an online form or email address. Do not send the same generic message everywhere.
- Attend open calls when offered. Some agencies hold open casting calls or scouting events. Bring your digitals and arrive on time.
- Be patient and follow up politely. Agencies receive many submissions. If you do not hear back in a few weeks, it is fine to try again later with updated photos.
Need help with photos? Read our guide to headshots for actors and models and learn how to build a model comp card.
What Utah agencies look for
- Reliability: responding quickly, showing up on time, and being easy to work with matter as much as your look in a smaller market.
- A clear, current look: photos that look like you today, not heavily edited or filtered.
- Range of ages and types: commercial clients need real people of every age, size, and background, not only fashion models.
- Willingness to self tape: many bookings now start with a recorded audition. Our self tape tips will help.
Red flags when choosing a Salt Lake City agency
- Large upfront fees to join, sign, or be represented.
- Required photo packages or classes with the agency’s own photographer before they will submit you.
- Promises of guaranteed work or income.
- Pressure to sign the same day or no written contract.
Standard agency commission is a percentage of what you earn when you book. Read more in how to get a talent agent.
Kids and teens modeling in Utah
Many Utah bookings are for children and families. Parents should stay with their child on set, keep copies of every contract, and check the Utah Labor Commission’s rules for minors before a child works. Our parent’s guide to child acting and modeling covers safety and getting started.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need experience to sign with a Salt Lake City modeling agency?
No. Agencies sign new faces regularly. Simple digitals, accurate measurements, and a professional attitude are enough to submit.
How much do Utah modeling agencies charge?
Legitimate agencies take a commission from the work they book for you. They should not charge large fees to sign you or require you to buy their photos or classes.
Is there union work in Utah?
Yes. SAG-AFTRA has a Utah local, and union film, TV, and commercial productions shoot in the state. Learn how membership works in how to join SAG-AFTRA.
Can I be represented in Utah and still work in Los Angeles?
Often, yes. Some Utah agencies work with partner agencies in larger markets, and many Utah actors self tape for out of state projects.
Ready to get started in Utah? Tell us about yourself and our team will reach out about auditions and opportunities near you. Sign up free, call (234) 525-2251, or browse auditions by state.
Written by the Actors Models Wanted editorial team. Last updated October 2026. Agency details change, so confirm current information on each agency’s website.