Teenage Modeling Opportunities

Teen models have many job opportunities that straddle both the teen and adult modeling industries. For those who are young, or just look young, jobs abound in teen fashion, print ads, magazine editorials and more. Of course, it's best to pursue a career with the guidance of a parent or trusted adult. It's also wise to know your limits, so that there's no danger of a job that's too demanding or too strenuous. But how can you know which area is best for you?

Jobs that are good for teen models include magazine editorial, print and commercial work, fashion runway shows and promotional events. Statistics by investment analysis firm Piper Jaffray notes, "Parents indicated that annual spending on teen apparel totaled $883 versus $1,487 in the spring 2007 survey, a 41 percent decline on a year-over-year basis." To secure teen dollars, companies have to target the audience harder than ever, with focused advertising that features young (or young-looking) models.

Teen modeling jobs are open to those who are in their teenage years, or look like they are. For the most part, agents and photographers want several attributes: a proportional body (there is a market for plus-size teen models, as well as slim ones), attractive features and a youthful, fresh appearance. For runway and many print agencies, height over 5 feet 7 inches for girls and 5 feet 10 inches for boys is desired. Since there is a teen market for every race, people usually look to hire multiculturally. Most jobs will go to those teens who are mature, hardworking and attitude-free. Since shoots can take all day and are usually hard work, industry professionals enjoy working with models who can handle the stress. A nice demeanor and obliging nature always lead to more jobs.

Some teen models work in adult fashion and runway. Since teens often have the slim build that high-fashion houses desire, they often find placements in big-city, upmarket agencies. Many famous models have started out as teens, including Chanel Iman, Kate Moss and Karolina Kurkova. Modeling for a high-fashion house may be even more stressful than doing jobs specifically for the teen demographic. Unlike agencies and employers that target and work with young people, high-fashion designers target career women and those with lots of discretionary income. The environment is a lot more intense and emotionally demanding, and there are often no parents around; many agencies take over official guardianship for teens from distant places. These modeling jobs are probably a good fit for only a very small percentage of teen boys and girls.

There are several ways to find good teen modeling jobs. You can sign with an agency that handles teen modeling. A good niche area to look for is print work, since there's a wide physical range that's acceptable in the print industry. Attend some open calls with your portfolio and comp card, or snapshots, and talk to booking agents to get an understanding of your best options. Remember, avoid any agency that demands any sort of payment for services, and bring an adult or guardian to sign contracts if you are under 18. Another method is to enter modeling contests run by agencies and talent scouts. You may need to pay a nominal entry fee to enter, but these contests are often a lot of fun, as well as being an excellent way to meet other teen models. Ford Models holds a contest every year, and teen magazines may also hold their own sweepstakes.

Teen modeling often leads to further modeling jobs as you grow older. However, a teen model must remember that the game will change once their young looks mature into adult ones. Instead of a small field of competition, there will be an increased field of people. This can be frustrating, and some choose not to continue modeling. Pay for these modeling jobs can help with college costs, clothing, trips and savings. With the help of a trusted adult or adviser, it's possible to grow earnings from teen modeling into a nice sum, if managed properly. Teen modeling doesn't pay as much as adult modeling, but there's likely to be repeat work, as long as things are done responsibly and well. In the end, teen modeling can be an enriching, confidence-building opportunity for the young person involved.