Overview
If your child has dreams of strutting down a runway or seeing his fresh young face on a billboard in New York's Times Square, you need a few tips to help him fulfill his dream despite fierce competition. These tips involve testing him to find out how photogenic he is, finding a reputable agent and avoiding child modeling scams.
Build the Foundation for a Successful Model
Step 1
Test for your child's ability to model. A successful male model for kids must be photogenic and have a great personality. If your child is shy or cannot express emotion in photographs, his options for male modeling will be limited. To test your son's potential, volunteer his modeling services at mall fashion shows and community events.
Step 2
Take a few test shots of your child. Take a few head shots and full-body shots of your son in sportswear and athletic wear. Have your child practice smiling in the mirror to help ease any fear of being photographed. Use these basic photos when you submit portfolios to modeling agencies.
Step 3
Prepare your child to take directions from strangers. A child male model must pose for a photographer and take direction from his or her agent easily. While respectable photographers and agencies will never allow a parent to be removed from a room during a photo shoot, your child must be able to follow another adult's directions and adjust his performance accordingly.
Step 4
Boost your son's chances. To increase the chances that your son will be discovered, enter him in amateur photo contests and attend casting calls for male models. Find local opportunities for your son to model clothing at fashion shows and charitable events.
How to Avoid Male Modeling Scams for Kids
Step 1
Get a reputable agent. Before submitting your child's photos to any agency, call your local Better Business Bureau to find out whether any complaints have been filed against child-modeling agencies. Look at a modeling agent's website to determine the requirements for submitting your child's information and photos. If the agency is interested, make an appointment to meet the agent in person before signing any agreements.
Step 2
Ask about the agent's experience in placing child male models. After talking to your child and assessing his personality and appearance, a credible and experienced agent can give an honest assessment of your child's potential as a model. Check the Better Business Bureau for the agency's and agent's reputation before signing your child to a non-exclusive or exclusive contract.
Step 3
Become familiar with modeling laws and exclusive and non-exclusive contracts. As a minor, your child can legally work only a limited number of hours per day. Visit the U.S. Department of Labor's website for child labor laws and work permit requirements for each state.
TIPS AND WARNINGS
- TIP : Accompany your child to all casting calls and to meetings with an agent or model scout.
Reputable agents will ask for casual photographs to assess a child's potential instead of requesting expensive shots taken by a professional photographer.
- WARNING : Avoid paying for a portfolio or giving any upfront money to an agent.
Because your child is growing rapidly and his features will change from year to year, do not invest in an expensive portfolio. If a portfolio and comp cards are required to book jobs, your agent will provide these marketing tools after your child is signed to the agency.
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