All parents believe their toddler is beautiful, but have you ever considered entering your child into toddler modelling? Modelling can be a fun, confidence-building hobby for youngsters, and it’s a great way to make extra cash to help save for their futures, too.
Getting your toddler into modelling is pretty straightforward in theory, but there can be some tricky obstacles to overcome. Read on to find out all about toddler modelling.
Finding Out if Your Toddler Has What it Takes
Not everyone has what it takes to be a model, and that goes for toddlers, too. The industry is looking for a certain look, as well as attitude and personality. Your little one must also be comfortable in front of strangers and a camera, and they need lots of energy and a people-pleasing attitude.
Generally, a modelling agency and brand is looking for the following:
– Someone who likes to be the centre of attention
– A smiley, cheeky attitude
– A child who can be fairly patient
– A child who can listen to and follow advice and orders
– A child who is comfortable around new people and places
– A child who adapts quickly to new situations
– A child who is generally happy and smiley
– A child who loves posing and being in front of a camera
Can You Make Time?
So that’s the toddler requirements – but what about the parent? As the toddler’s guardian, lots of responsibility will rest on your shoulders if your child gets into modelling, so you need to make sure you have the time and ability to assist them.
Legally, you will need to be present at all jobs and interviews. You will also need to get them to and from casting calls. All documentation has to go through you, and you will have to deal with contracts and payments.
You also need to be flexible. Jobs and interviews can crop up last-minute, and they will expect you to attend if you are invited. If you’re unable to, they will think you’re not serious or professional and you could lose future invites. You may need to drop plans or rearrange things.
And are you happy with all the travelling? It’s all very well if your toddler is great in the car, but you need to accompany them to wherever they are required.
Brands and agencies will expect you to be on time, so if you’re bad at time management, your toddler may not be able to have a career in modelling. You must decide yourself if it is something you truly want to get involved in; a half-hearted attempt will result in failure.
Getting Signed to a Modelling Agency
So you’ve decided your child fits the criteria, and you think you can support them – now, it’s time to look into getting them signed!
Getting a model signed is the tricky bit, regardless of their age. In theory, it’s simple enough – you just have to fill out a quick and easy application which can usually be found on the agent’s websites. You’ll need your toddler’s measurement and clothing size information, as well as a couple of snapshots that really show off their modelling potential.
But the reality of getting signed is much different. It’s a very competitive industry, and agencies can receive thousands of applicants each week. That means that, even if your application gets seen, it’s likely to not get selected.
The key to improving your chances of getting signed is to have an excellent selection of photos to choose from. Agencies may spend mere seconds viewing your toddler’s photos, and a decision will be made almost immediately. They can usually tell from a simple glance whether someone will find work as a model, so you need to make sure your toddler’s application photos are high-quality and really show off their looks and personality.
Don’t just use photos taken on a phone – they’re not good enough. It’s a good idea to book into a professional studio to get some photos taken. You can then use these photos for your application, as well as in your child’s modelling portfolio. Make sure you get some close-up beauty shots, as well as some full-length body shots to include in your application.
A photoshoot is also a great way to tell if your toddler will enjoy modelling. If you choose a good photo studio, the process will replicate a real-life modelling job, complete with hair & make-up, bright lighting and industry professionals.
Say Cheese!
One of the most difficult aspects of child modelling is getting a toddler to smile or otherwise perform on cue. Most of the time, toddlers of that age aren’t 100% aware of what is going on around them – they won’t understand that an ill-timed tantrum could cost a studio thousands of pounds. That’s why agencies look for toddlers who are generally happy with lots of energy.
There is no way to guarantee a successful photoshoot, but there are some things you can do to make it go a little bit easier:
– Try to ensure both you and your toddler get enough sleep the night before
– Set off in plenty of good time so you arrive early to the studio
– Be prepared – bring snacks, water, and things to keep your tot occupied
Dealing with an Uncooperative Toddler
You’ve landed the job, got yourself organised, got to the studios – and your toddler is having a full-on meltdown. It happens! But how do you deal with it?
You know your child best, so you’re going to be the best person to decide what will calm down or otherwise distract your toddler from their tantrum. Try bringing their favourite snacks, or their comfort blanket/dummy/cuddly toy. Try allowing them to watch their favourite programme on your phone.
But the best answer is not to force them. Sometimes, toddlers just don’t want to perform or work – and who can blame them? Their most important job is learning and growing.
If tantrums happen regularly, it might be best to rethink their career as a model.
What to Expect at a Toddler Photoshoot
It differs from brand to brand, but typically, you can expect the following at a photoshoot:
– Typically, photoshoots requiring toddlers take place in a photo studio with a white screen and lighting. Sometimes, photos may be needed on location like a toy store or in a holiday setting.
– Your toddler will be dressed in the appropriate clothing and may have camera make-up applied (this will be nothing heavy – just a touch of cream or powder to prevent shine and cover redness).
– Your toddler will then be positioned in front of the camera. They may be asked to stand or hold a prop, or they may need to sit down on a chair or step. It depends entirely on the brand’s campaign vision.
– If your child is nervous, you may be asked to jump in and provide encouragement. You will be present for the entire shoot.
– Brands catering to children will have lots of experience, so they should be patient and kind to your toddler. Set atmospheres are usually upbeat and positive. Shoots don’t usually take too long with children, because photographers are keen to be done and dusted quickly – they know toddlers have a short attention span.
– After the shoot, you can remove any make-up that has been applied to your toddler and you will dress them back in their own clothing. You may get a chance to look at the final photos, but you won’t get a say in which ones are selected.
And that’s pretty much it! Remember, before you post any photos from the photoshoot, always ask permission from the brand/agency/photographer first – they may not want you sharing content, especially if it is for an upcoming campaign. The photos do not belong to you, so you can’t use them unless you specifically purchase them or get consent!
