All children are beautiful, but only some have the looks and personality for a career in modelling. While many children are indeed cute or photogenic at home, modelling is a different world. They will need both the looks and the character to do well.
If you’re interested in having your child pursue a career in the fashion industry, read on – we’ve put together a selection of information that is vital for parents of child models to know.
Could My Child Be a Model?
Modelling – especially child modelling – is about a lot more than just looks. Of course your child must look a certain way – ideally smooth skin, a cheeky smile and a pretty face are all great – but they also need to have a certain temperament and character about them.
Children who model can find it overwhelming if they are shy or hate strangers. A child model will need to follow directions from completely new people, they may need to work with other children, they will need to adapt quickly to new surroundings, they will need to have a bubbly and winning personality that shows on camera, and they will need to have lots of energy to see them through photoshoots. If your child is shy and hates having their picture taken, there is no point forcing them into modelling.
You must think about the suitability of your child’s personality before considering a modelling career for them.
How Much Am I – the Parent/Guardian – Involved?
As the child’s parent/guardian, you will have a heavy role in their modelling career. Legally, you will be expected to be with them during all interviews and photo shoots.
You will also have to set the time aside to do all the grown-up stuff your child won’t be able to do. That includes getting them to/from interviews and shoots, reading through contracts, negotiating pay, and sorting out their modelling portfolio and z-cards.
You will also be expected to help out at the shoots. If your child becomes upset or otherwise struggles, you will need to step in and reassure them, perhaps assisting the photographer with cheering up your child.
And remember, your role as their parents/guardian will go unpaid. You will need to be OK with using up lots of your spare time with helping them pursue this career. Of course, it can be incredibly rewarding just seeing your child in print or on an advert, and knowing you are helping to save for their future with their earnings.
How Do I Find a Modelling Agent?
Finding a good modelling agency is easy in theory, but can be difficult in practice. Not only are you against hundreds of other hopefuls, meaning competition is high, you are also having to scroll through hundreds of scam or fake agencies who are just out to take your money.
You need to do your research when applying to agencies. A reputable agency will not ask for any joining or membership fees, and their contracts will be clear and concise. Look for any online reviews if you are unsure about an agency, and if at all concerned, avoid them. Trust your gut in this situation – you don’t want to end up working for an agency who are bad.
Does My Child Need a Modelling Portfolio?
Yes, your child will definitely need a professional modelling portfolio. A modelling portfolio is how you will show prospective agencies and brands your child’s talent and experience in front of the camera.
You may be wondering how to go about creating a portfolio if your child does not yet have any modelling experience. Booking in with a professional modelling studio is a great way not only to get some high-quality photos for your portfolio, but also to see how your child reacts to being in a professional photoshoot setting.
Is it, however, usually not recommended to create a portfolio for babies between the ages of 0 – 3. This is because they grow so quickly, a portfolio would quickly become outdated. You will still need recent photos to apply to agencies and jobs, however. Try to make these as high-quality as possible.
What is a Casting Call?
A casting call is another term for an interview. Sometimes, an agency may have something called an ‘open casting call’. This is when you don’t need an invite – you can simply turn up on the day and see if you have what it takes. Open casting calls usually have lots of waiting around, so make sure you take some snacks and something to do while you wait.
What Kind of Modelling Do Children Do?
There are plenty of modelling opportunities for children, toddlers and babies. Brands that cater to these age ranges (children’s clothing or toys, for example) will always be on the lookout for child models. Holiday booking companies and more family-oriented brands will also want children for “family” photoshoots.
As well as publication ads and billboards, children are also frequently used on TV adverts, especially at Christmas time.
Remember that most modelling jobs will take place in major cities like London or Manchester. If you live in a remote area, be prepared for some extensive travelling.
How Much Do Child Models Earn?
The amount of money a child model earns differs depending on their experience, their fame and their demand in the business. Some child models may earn a few hundred pounds, while other more experienced child models (and those that come from celebrity households) may earn thousands of pounds for a single shoot. That’s because their famous name will immediately make them in demand as a model.
At this young age, it’s wise to think about child modelling as more of a hobby than a job. It’s not a good idea to rely on the income provided by child modelling, because it is a very difficult industry to make a regular income from.
How Does School Fit In?
Modelling must be done alongside any school or extra-curricular activities. That sometimes means a child’s life becomes extremely busy. Even if their modelling career truly takes off, that doesn’t mean school can be ignored. It’s a good idea to talk to your child’s school about their modelling career, so you can make an arrangement in case they miss a few days here or there due to work commitments. Your child will be expected to do any missed schoolwork in their spare time.
The modelling industry is also extremely competitive, and they expect you to take the job seriously. If you are invited to auditions or land roles, you must be flexible to suit their schedule. This may mean cancelling or re-arranging pre-made plans.
