Most gushing parents believe that their kids are the best thing that has ever happened to mankind and would be perfect for any TV commercials or magazine. However, a parent’s perception does not a child model make. You need to get a seasoned child modeling agency to see your child the way you do.
It takes more than a cute angelic face to break into the highly-competitive modeling industry. The same holds true for adult models as it is for kids. Furthermore, there is also the issue of how you can make your child stand out from the rest of the competition. You can, of course, do this by putting together a portfolio comprising pictures that show off your kid’s naturally cute looks, antics, and abilities.
The Internet is rife with tips on how to take great photos to make an impressive portfolio, but most are usually directed at adult models. Keep in mind that most of those tips will not really apply to child models.
Modeling agencies for kids have their own set of guidelines, which may include the following:
- Most agencies prefer photos that look non-professional.
- Children must appear natural and not be wearing any makeup or elaborate hairstyles.
- Photos must feature a natural or plain background with no distractions.
If you are keen on pushing for a modeling career for your kid, here are a few insider tips for increasing your child’s chances of getting accepted by an agency and landing different types of modeling jobs through the use of photography:
1. Make it look natural
Agents can tell if a child is uncomfortable being in front of the camera; the smile and the stance are already dead giveaways.
Children smile in different ways. Some may show off their teeth while others keep their mouths closed. Both types are acceptable as long as the smile doesn’t look fake or forced.
Did your boy lose his tooth recently after a baseball game? It is common for kids to lose a tooth or two. As long as the photo features a child with a great smile, most agencies won’t mind the wide gaps between your child’s teeth.
2. Show your kid’s friendly personality
For modeling agencies, the child’s looks are less important than his personality. Having a genuine smile is a start.
Unlike teen or adult models, kids are not expected to exhibit a wide range of emotions. As such, there is no need to get pictures of them pouting or featuring a glare or serious stare.
3. No need to be a pro
As a doting parent, you want to give your child the best chance of breaking into the industry. That is understandable but you don’t need to pay a professional photographer or pay hundreds or thousands of dollars to get decent headshots or images of your child.
Even a regular digital camera can work to your advantage. The aim is to take clear images that focus on your child.
Plus, kids are used to their parents taking their pictures. With this in mind, you have a better opportunity of taking great shots of your child where he is comfortable.
Try to get as many shots as you can of your child. Don’t aim for perfection. The aim is to get as many views as you can that you can choose from.
4. Follow the instructions
Know what the agency’s requirements are even before taking the first shot. This way, you know what scenarios to look out for and the types of photos to take.
For instance, you may need to take note of acceptable types, sizes, and how to send them to the agency. Following each agency’s instructions increases your child’s chances of getting to the next phase.
Keep these tips in mind to show the world your child’s best side. Once you have gone through this list, get your child ready, grab your camera, and start shooting!
AUTHOR BIO
Adam Jacobs is the Managing Director of Bubblegum Casting, the longest running agency specialising in babies, children and teen talent in Australia. Bubblegum Casting works with some of Australia’s biggest brands, media properties and agencies to secure talented children to work in Television, Film and Modelling roles.