Child Modeling: How to get started

When looking for representation from an agency, you typically have to submit an application with your child’s stats (age, hair colour, eye colour, height, weight, clothing and shoe sizes) as well as clear photos – typically a full body and/or head shot. It is important to have clear photos but you don’t have to go out and spend money on professional photo shoot if your child is under three years old.  A simple photo of them standing against a plain wall, laying or sitting on a blanket for babies should be fine. From my experience with the girls, agencies typically prefer photos with minimal hair accessories if any.

Some agencies will choose models from applications alone while other agencies have an interview process and go from there. Their process should be noted on their website.

Getting booked/casted:

One of the best ways to get booked or chosen to be sent for a casting call is to keep your child’s photos and stats up to date on a monthly basis. Kids with the most up to date info get considered for jobs first. Like I mentioned in the application process, the photos don’t need to be professional but should be bright and clear. Most of the girls’ bookings have been done via photos through their agent.

On the job:

Once your child is booked, I suggest you arrive early to your set location. I advise this because most times there will be a back up child also booked. Clients often have in mind who they want to be in their campaign however, if your child isn’t feeling well in the day or if they are not into the shoot, there is a chance that the back up child will be used. I like to get to shoots early, especially if it’s at a location where we haven’t shot before because the girls can be shy at times. Going early allows them to familiarize themselves and get comfortable in the space. I also bring along snacks, some toys and my iPad to keep the girls occupied until we’re called to set.

Once on set, it’s all fun! Crew members are awesome and will work with you to make sure your child is comfortable and happy. If you find that your child isn’t enjoying it after a few tries, don’t push them. Kids will be kids and may not always be in the mood to shoot. If you push them too hard, it then turns away from being fun.

Since the girls have been modeling, they’ve worked various print jobs including Walmart, Sears, Babies R Us, Hudson’s Bay, and Air Miles and they love it!

Let me know in the comments if you found this helpful and if you had any questions that you found weren’t answered let me know below!

xo