Getting your child into modeling is as easy as mailing, or emailing, some snapshots to a modeling agent who represents children. Sounds simple, right? It is, or rather it can be.
There is a misconception that parents have to spend tons of money on professional photographs, modeling classes, and fancy outfits to get their child into modeling, or wait for them to somehow get “discovered.” That is simply not true. Read on and you’ll learn how to get your child on the road to modeling, a little bit about what the child modeling industry is like, and if modeling is a good fit for you and your child. Please remember that the guidelines I’m giving you are general guidelines based on my own experience. There are exceptions to every rule.
If you want to be a kid model, you need the right photos and a strong portfolio. To build a strong portfolio, take many photos of your child’s best poses and expressions. You should also have photos taken in every season and varying light conditions. Be sure to get professional photos taken every year or two at least as kids grow fast!
How Can I Get My Child Into Modeling?
Here are the steps and questions I considered when we approached child modeling. These four questions/steps proved to be simple, cheap, and better yet, fun!
- Is Your Child the Right Personality for Modeling?
- How to Find an Agency
- How to Take Photos for Child Modeling
- Is Modeling Right for You as a Parent?
1. Is Modeling Right for Your Child?
The first thing it’s important to acknowledge is that modeling isn’t a great fit for every baby, child, or teen. It’s probably obvious that friendly, outgoing children are best suited to modeling, but there’s more to it than that! There are different ways to handle modeling at each stage, so first things first . . .
What Is the Best Age to Begin Modeling?
Any age is a great age to begin modeling! Models of all ages, shapes, and sizes are needed to sell products or illustrate ideas. Therefore, any time is a great time to get started.
Babies, Toddlers, and Modeling
Babies should be generally easygoing and not afraid of going to people they’re unfamiliar with. Toddlers are, of course, unpredictable and can sometimes be hard to manage, but at least need to be able to cooperate and follow directions.
Children and Modeling
Child models need to be obedient and cooperative. A child model may be asked to do all kinds of uncomfortable things, like stand on a cold beach in a swimsuit, wear shoes that are way too small, or have their hairstyle changed three times in one hour. If your child hates to have his hair combed, styled, and sprayed, or hates to repeatedly change outfits, modeling may not be right for him. If your child feels uncomfortable around adults he doesn’t know, modeling may not be right for him. While clients and agents alike understand that kids will be kids, they prefer easygoing, well-mannered children who follow directions well, catch on quickly, and don’t complain.
Teens and Modeling
Older children will be expected to project a certain degree of professionalism. This is because when modeling as a teen you are beholden to many of the standards that adults are held to. This means having a healthy, realistic perspective; if you’re trying to model, you may be held to seemingly unfair height, weight, and measurements.
The number one thing to remember when you’re a teen attempting to model is that your body is perfect just the way it is; changing slowly, changing quickly, or not changing at all. Modeling is not worth straining over body image and changing your diet and exercise routine drastically. That being said, the advice above stands: Individuals that are easy to work with and can follow instructions will do best in the modeling industry.https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/EaF6FpeHZQQ?start=0
