guarantees / contract agencies / freelance agencies
As the usage of western models grew increasingly popular in advertising, Japanese agencies began scouting the world over to meet the growing demand. Promising models were then offered short-term contracts to work in Japan. Hence the name "contract agency." Contract agencies specialize in all forms of print work, but they certainly don't limit themselves. From high-fashion shoots to tv commercials and uniform catalogues, their models have proven themselves versatile in front of any kind of camera and it's their intention to see that they land as many jobs as possible. 
To cover the relatively high costs of Tokyo, guarantees within contracts were introduced to cover the model's initial and living expenses plus some in tow. In return for prepaying an airplane ticket, accommodation, spending money, transportation and other promotional costs, the model agreed to a work term of usually 2 months. 
Most guarantees range from 1 million yen (~$7500 US) to 2 million yen ($15,000 US), depending upon the experience and the perceived potential earnings of the model. Although the agency essentially accepts all the risk involved, it is very important to note that this is a GROSS GUARANTEE, and by no means is this guaranteed cash in the model's pocket after the 2 months are up. It is, rather, a lump sum of money BEFORE the model's cut, and BEFORE the deductions in expenses. Slightly confused? It's not surprising. Let's look at an easy-to-follow example in: |