In all of Germany, but also especially in Hamburg, there are many model agencies. However, to be able to recognize a serious model agency, you should pay attention to a few things.
The first rule is that model agencies for models must definitely be free. Running fees or admission fees are an absolute exclusion criterion and a sign of rip-off. If a reputable modeling agency sees your potential and does the work to take you on, then they won’t charge you any money. Also, please be honest with yourself and stay realistic. If a job offer is too good to be true, like a luxury shoot in Los Angeles including flight and hotel – and that for a model who has never seen the agency live, it indicates a scam. Also, take a look at the model agency’s website: There should be several sedcards, traceable contact details and a legitimate imprint. You can also google the model agency and look at reviews.
Topic nudes: Yes, partial nudes are not frowned upon in the modeling world and are definitely more common than you might think. But for a beginner model, taking too revealing photos is definitely not recommended. And in no case is it necessary! So if an agency gives you advice to do nude shoots or says “Heidi Klum and Claudia Schiffer did it too!”, then this is definitely not a serious tip.
Basically, nothing can be promised in this industry and no possible success can be predicted. The industry is changeable and is also influenced by trends. The agency can therefore introduce you to the market, but cannot promise you success.