Joey Hunter Talks IMTA Conference With Modasphere and Casting Networks®

In January, the annual International Modeling and Talent Association (IMTA) convention was held in Los Angeles, and the world’s top modeling and talent agents, managers and casting directors converged to discover fresh faces in modeling, acting, songwriting, dancing, singing, and fashion design.

The Modasphere and Casting Networks teams attended the conference where we spoke to Modasphere’s Director of Business Development and former co-president of Ford Model Management, Joey Hunter. Hunter provided some context for IMTA and discussed the ways in which the conference helps casting directors and agents meet top industry talent.

CN: When did your involvement with IMTA first begin?

JH: I’ve supported IMTA from the beginning. I was going all the time when I was at Ford Models. I would go along with my scout and every year we would set up both a men’s table and a women’s table for callbacks. I managed the men’s division so I would have the final say on the men, and Eileen [Ford] would have the final word for the women. We attend and support IMTA because we always find good talent there.

CN: Have you found the same talent/schools returning year after year?

JH: I do find that the same schools attend each year and can say that talent gets better and better year after year. The models and actors that attend the convention are prepared as they have at least six months of training, which truly makes IMTA different from the other conventions out there. IMTA is now open to South Africa, Spain, and China, and a lot of participants are from all over the world. This year the IMTA is kicking off its first annual convention in China in May 2020.

CN: What was your favorite moment from the convention this year?      

JH: My favorite moment was when Lita Cliene won model of the year. I thought hands down she was perfect for a career in modeling!

The Casting Networks team is always eager to gain insight from industry veterans like Joey Hunter, and we look forward to attending the IMTA Conference again next year.