Starting small, senior Merric Gregory attended a mini-audition called a “go-see” which means going to the agency and seeing what it’s like, in hopes of getting signed. Meeting new faces, introducing himself, and showcasing his personality was something Merric needed getting used to. 

After his very first go-see, Gregory walked out an officially signed model to the Kim Dawson Agency.  This is something that is rare in the industry. 

“You really have to put yourself out there, go to an agency building, and usually the new faces agent is there to interview you just like a regular job,” Gregory said. “But they really only care about personality [and] looks mainly. You talk to them for  30, 40 minutes, and you tell them about yourself. If they like you, they sign you. If they don’t, you don’t hear back from them.”

Gregory was inspired to start modeling by his mother, Nichole Gregory. Through dark and light times, she has been able to coach him through the twists and turns of this new career. Gregory is still in development, meaning he is a new model. Being a model herself, Nichole provides insight from her own experiences.

“I have always told him that with many things in life, you will hear ‘no’ many more times than ‘yes’,” Nichole said. “Do not take that personally and don’t let it deter you from your goals.  Ask questions, be aware of situations and learn the business of the industry.”

Nichole started modeling in high school, so when her high-school aged son also began to show interest in the industry, the two were able to find a new connection.

“I was surprised when he casually brought it up in conversation,” Nichole said. “Merric is a quiet person, not shy but quiet.  I know he is handsome, but he is my son, I get to say that. His father and I have always encouraged both of our sons to pursue their dreams and, of course, we said ok, let’s find an open call and see what happens.”

Many responsibilities are needed from Gregory to get booked once he is signed. As a personal contractor, he and his agency work together to find contracts and clients, notably Neiman Marcus and Brunello Cuccinelli. 

“Modeling is mostly about networking,” Gregory said. “If you get your name and your face out there, that’s basically the entire job. You’ll start getting signed more. You’ll start getting more jobs”

Behind the scenes of modeling are photographers, makeup artists, directors and site managers who all are needed to play a specific part. Preparation for a shoot can take hours while the photoshoot itself may only take one. 

“It definitely teaches you how to socialize better because you’re meeting so many people all the time, but it’s really about keeping that friendly, approachable attitude,” Gregory said.

One of Merric’s agents, Clay Boutte, works in the background, finding jobs and potential casting for him. These castings allow Merric to potentially travel to New York, Milan and Paris and work with companies like DNA modeling, Elite modeling and commercial castings.

“As an agent, I oversee the scouting and development of new talent at our agency,” Boutte said. “My job is to prepare and guide models in the right direction for their careers. I work closely with our team and other partner agencies to make sure our models are prepared, professional and stand out amongst their competitors.”

There are three types of modeling: runway, editorial, and commercial. Runway is the typical fashion show where there is a runway and an audience. Brands use models to show off their clothes, in hopes of customers viewing the pieces and investing. 

Editorial shoots are more personalized. For example, a photoshoot seniors in high school may do to celebrate their graduation. 

“Behind the scenes, the agency handles everything from scouting and development to negotiating contracts, organizing portfolio shoots, prepping digitals for clients, and pitching and guiding talent,” Boutte said. “A model’s responsibility is to show up fully prepared: to understand how to sell the product in the best way possible, maintain their look, bring professionalism, and deliver confidently on set.”

Lastly, commercial shoots typically advertise a product. You may see these photoshoots on television, magazines or billboards. Merric works with all three of these categories, open to any castings.

“It’s mostly just experience,” Gregory said. “So the longer you’ve been doing it, the better you’re gonna be. It’s really just about time, instead of getting lucky, although sometimes it is being lucky.”

Modeling does come with its own frustrations, both behind the scenes and in front of the camera. One of those problems being age. Most agencies and castings won’t sign with a model unless they’re eighteen.

“There’s a natural maturity in Merric, a willingness to learn, and of course a great look,” Boutte said. “He is always prepared, takes direction well, and he has a genuine personality.”

Although Merric is graduating early in December, he is only getting booked around once a month, while those around him who are already done with school may be getting booked weekly. Yet despite these challenges, Merric doesn’t let that dim his determination.

“If you get turned down, it doesn’t matter, you’re gonna get more opportunities without a doubt,” Gregory said. “So if you let the blows roll off your shoulder, then it’s no big deal. But other than that, I just like to have fun with everything.”

Patience is a trait that many in the modeling industry learn to display as the booking processes can take weeks. Waiting to hear if a model got the job confirmed causes anxiety and potential stress, and while they may get the job, there is a chance they could still get cut if the company decides it doesn’t need them any more. This could happen because they booked too many models for an event like runway.

“Be patient, be consistent and trust the process,” Boutte said. “Every model has their own specific journey.  The industry rewards professionalism just as much as it does a great look.  Show up on time, communicate clearly, take care of your body and mindset, and stay open to guidance.  Also, remember to have fun along the way.”

Something that Merric likes to do outside of work is calisthenics. Calisthenics is a type of workout that includes moves like handstands and pull-ups. Working out allows him to keep up his physical fitness while also allowing a productive outlet for free time. This desire for growth shows itself in both his career and personal life.

“Watching someone grow into the best version of themselves as a model is rewarding to me,” Boutte said. “I enjoy seeing the small wins just as much as the big wins.”

In the future, Merric hopes to continue his work as a model after high school. Once he graduates high school, he plans on getting more bookings and taking off in his career.

“Merric has the kind of presence you can build a real career around,” Boutte said. “With continued growth, patience, and a genuine eagerness to be part of this industry, he has the potential to work in multiple markets around the world.”