Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Columbia's Premier Modeling & Talent Agency
Founded in 1960 by renowned model Millie Lewis, our agency has spent decades shaping the careers of aspiring models and actors. We specialize in talent representation, offering comprehensive training programs in commercial acting, personal development, and etiquette instruction for all ages. Our recent transition to publishing personal development materials expands our reach while maintaining our commitment to fostering confidence and poise. The agency continues in-person commercial acting classes, combining hands-on instruction with industry insights.Under the leadership of Sheilah Dixon, we've placed talent in prestigious roles nationally and internationally, including placements for major productions and representation by top agencies. Our headshot photography services, led by Billy Graham, provide professional imaging for aspiring performers. With a legacy spanning generations, we remain dedicated to discovering and nurturing talent through honest evaluations and personalized career guidance.
Services
Modeling Representation
Acting Classes
Headshot Photography
Talent Booking
Personal Development
Details
- Year established: 1960
Highlights and features
- We offer 60+ years of experience in talent development and industry connections
- Our instructors provide personalized guidance from seasoned professionals
- We maintain a proven track record placing talent with top agencies nationwide
- Our virtual open calls offer honest industry evaluations with expert feedback
- We combine legacy expertise with modern training methodologies
What people say
Amazing eye for talent
Professional development
Industry connections
Personalized guidance
Successful alumni
Services
Modeling Representation
We represent models and actors for print, runway, fashion, TV commercials, and film productions. Our industry connections secure opportunities for emerging talent. With decades of experience, we provide career management and placement services nationally and internationally.
Commercial Acting Classes
Our beginner-focused program teaches audition techniques across three sessions. The curriculum develops foundational skills for television commercial acting. Classes combine practical experience with industry insights from seasoned professionals.
Headshot Photography
Billy Graham Photography offers commercial and theatrical headshots with wardrobe consultation. Sessions include makeup assistance and 45+ images across two looks. The $185 fee covers full session production and digital delivery.
Personal Development
We offer age-specific programs for preteens and teens focusing on self-esteem and poise. The curriculum includes etiquette instruction and appearance management. These programs transitioned to published materials in 2025 for broader accessibility.
Virtual Open Calls
Weekly Thursday Zoom sessions provide personalized industry feedback from Sheilah Dixon. Participants receive career path guidance and market positioning advice. The free evaluations help navigate modeling and acting career opportunities honestly.
People
Millie Lewis
Founder
Legendary model established the agency in 1960, launching careers of industry icons like Denise Hopkins and Andie MacDowell through her confidence-building methodology.
Sheilah Dixon
Owner and Director
With 30 years of leadership, she's recognized as a top Mother Agent, developing talent for national and international placements while maintaining the agency's founding mission.
Billy Graham
Photographer
Specializes in commercial and theatrical headshots, creating professional images with wardrobe consultation and makeup assistance in relaxed studio environments.
Questions
What modeling and acting services do you offer?
We provide talent representation, commercial acting classes, headshot photography, and personal development training for all experience levels.
How can I book talent through your agency?
Contact our Columbia office directly at 803.782.7338 or request access to our talent database for professional bookings.
Do you offer virtual evaluations?
Yes, we host weekly virtual open calls via Zoom with personalized feedback from our director.
What training programs are available?
We offer commercial acting classes, etiquette instruction, and personal development programs for ages 9 to adult.
Who are your notable alumni?
Our talent includes Kelsey Chow and placements with major agencies like Innovative Artists in LA/NY.
How do headshot sessions work?
Sessions include wardrobe consultation, professional makeup assistance, and 45+ images across two looks for $185.
Reviews (2)
Zoe Owen
Jan 20, 2019
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Amazing people here. Unbelievable care for customers and clients! Top notch photo products that are artistic, professional and beautiful!
Dave Crary
Jun 13, 2017
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I have been with Millie Lewis for 4 years and have found them professional, helpful, and friendly. Sheila Dixon is the best.