CHILD MODELING: A GUIDE TO GETTING STARTED

Child modeling talent agencies are always seeking new faces.

Child Modeling: A Complete Guide to Getting Started

Child modeling is a growing industry, offering exciting opportunities for young talents. Whether it’s for commercials, print ads, music videos or a even a billboard in Times Square, the world of child modeling provides a unique chance for children to shine. If you’re considering child modeling for your little one, here's some tips  to get started.

If a talent agent or modeling agency ask you for money upfront this is a big red flag.

Reputable child modeling talent agencies will not ask you for money.
 

One of the first things to know is that talent agencies and modeling agents in LA work on commission only. No reputable LA talent agency will ever ask you for money upfront. They make a commission only when you book a job. That means they may send you on many, many auditions before they make any money. It is always spelled out how much the job is paying and how much the agent makes. If a modeling agency scout approaches you on the street and says your child would be a great model, and then they tell you they will sign her, but it will cost such and such in fees, this is a scam. Talent agencies in California are regulated by the state. All LA talent agents are licensed and bonded. If they are asking you for money for headshots, training or fees to get started, run.

Most talent agencies or modeling agents are legit and wonderful, but there are scammers or posers who are just trying to make money and will gladly take your money. However, there are many, fabulous agencies and very reputable talent managers and agents who are ethical and honest. We work with all of these talent agencies and will gladly help our clients with recommendations and guidance to navigate the world of child modeling or acting.

Continue reading below to learn more about getting started as a child model and signing with a child modeling or talent agency.

Robin Lorraine Photography has been photographing models and actors for over 14 years.

Child modeling headshot photographed by top kids headshot photographer Robin Lorraine.

How to Get Into Child Modeling

1. Start with a child modeling headshots
   Every child model needs a strong portfolio. A professional portfolio should showcase a range of photos, including modeling headshots and full-body shots. Many talent agencies specialize in child models and will expect professional photos. At Robin Lorraine Photography we work with many of the top talent agencies and know what they expect and like, providing you with images that will get auditions. The headshots will be used to submit to agencies and additional the agent will use these photos for castings and to get your child auditions. Some agents will allow you to submit for representation with snapshots, but your chances of getting signed are reduced. We recommend you begin with professional modeling headshots as you will need them even after you sign with an agent. And to top it off we always help our clients with getting started in the industry of child acting or modeling and provide you with the tools, agent info and everything you need to get an agent. Here are some sample child modeling headshots to get your child started with a top talent agency.

   

   This child modeling photo shows personality, energy, is vibrant and will get attention from any child modeling talent agency. Photo credit Robin Lorraine Photography, LA

   
   

   

   Child modeling talent agencies need a portfolio of images to submit your child for castings. Starting off with a strong modeling portfolio will help your child get a strong start in this industry. You can waste time and money by not using a top reputable headshot photographer. Robin Lorraine Photography is one of the top child headshot and model photographers in the nation. 

   
   

   

   A child modeling portfolio should have a variety of images. Robin Lorraine Photography is consistently referred by the top child modeling agencies in Los Angeles. Her clients fly in from all over the nation to get their headshots and modeling portfolios. 

2. Find a Reputable Modeling Agency
   A trusted modeling agency can open doors for your child, connecting them to legitimate job opportunities. Look for agencies with experience in child modeling and avoid any that ask for upfront fees. No agency can ask you for money or require you to use a specific photographer or ask you to pay for photos. They can refer you to a photographer but they cannot take your money and insist you pay them. I have heard numerous horror stories of parents paying for runway lessons, and casting sites that are NOT needed or reputable. You can avoid this by working with reputable talent agencies and photographers and casting sites. How do you know if they are reputable? Most parents have a slew of questions when getting started and we are always happy to share our knowledge. We guide our clients to reputable child modeling talent agents the correct casting sites and will give you help with this if you need this.

3. Get Auditions and Casting Calls
   You will be setting up casting accounts with specific sites that talent agents and casting use. Your agent will want to see your photos posted on this and there will be fees to post on these sites. But these fees are paid to the casting sites, not the agent. Yes there are some fees to get started, but at the same time your child will make money when they book jobs. One booking should cover the fees for casting sites, headshots and most likely there will be leftover money to bank. If a child is a gymnast there are gym fees, coaching fees, uniforms etc. It's the same for acting...you have headshots and casting profiles that cost money.  Once signed with an agency and with your casting sites all set up, your child will be invited to auditions and casting calls. You may go in person to an audition or you may be asked to self-tape your audition (like a YouTube video). This is the exciting part and now it is up to your child to audition and try to book the job. And sometimes for child models you may not even audition. You may book jobs right off your headrest or modeling portfolio. This is another reason why you want strong modeling headshots. 

   

   Once you set up your casting accounts, you will post your child's headshots and then the fun begins...auditions! Your kids headshots are used to submit to casting for casting calls. 

   
   

   

   Robin Lorraine Photography works with some of the top child talent agencies and child modeling agencies in Los Angeles.

   

   A reputable talent agent will never ask you for money for classes, for photography or any upfront fees. If they do, this is a red flag. 
   
   

   

   Some castings will book your child right off their headshot without requiring an audition. 

4. Be Prepared for the Industry
   Always ask your new agent what they expect from you, and what is needed and wanted from them. Knowing what your agent prefers can be very helpful for success. Most agents will want you to turn your auditions in on time and avoid canceling auditions. Some agents want lots of communication from you and some want very little. If you find out how your agent likes to work and what will help them, you are setting yourself up for great team work. Some agents will also like you to train. For example they may want you to take a commercial workshop to learn the basics of commercial auditioning.  This is typically a 4 week class (once a week) that helps your child learn how to deliver a line or practice in front of the camera. Most child modeling agencies will send you out for print and commercials, so learning these tips can be invaluable. 

   

   Child modeling agencies will use a variety of poses and headshot looks on your casting profile. Giving the agent a portfolio of strong headshots with different poses and expressions is helpful for getting more auditions. Taking a class to learn the basics of auditioning is also helpful. We are happy to recommend some great classes.

   
   

   

   Child modeling headshots Los Angeles by photographer Robin Lorraine taken at our North Hollywood studio. We have clients that fly in from across the country to work with us and get their headshots. 

   

   Child modeling headshot showing the full body. 

   

   Talent agents are always scouting for new child models because kids grow up and they constantly need to replace those empty slots on their roster. 

   
   

   

   Headshot for child modeling and acting, LA

   
   

   

   Child modeling headshot by LA headshot photographer Robin Lorraine

   
   

   

   Baby modeling headshot

   
   

   

   Child modeling has many benefits including confidence building.

   
   

Benefits of Child Modeling

• Exposure to New Opportunities: Child models can gain exposure to many different industries, from fashion to television. Some child models and actors go onto directing and writing or even opening their own modeling agency once they reach adulthood.
• Building Confidence: Modeling helps children learn how to express themselves in front of others, which can build their confidence. Some children overcome shyness.
• Financial Benefits: Child models can earn money for their work, which can be saved for their future or used for personal enrichment.

Challenges in Child Modeling

• Quick Turn-around: Child modeling auditions and bookings can often be last minute, and you may not receive much notice. 
• Competition: Child modeling is a competitive field, and not every audition results in a job. It can take many auditions before you book a job.

Tips for Parents of Aspiring Child Models

1. Keep a Balance: Having other activities is important for balance, but also skills such as dance, sports, music can be helpful in booking a job. Target often uses dancers or a job may show the child playing soccer.
2. Maintain Realistic Expectations: Understand that not every audition will result in a job. Patience is key. 
3. Keep it fun: Your child should feel supported and encouraged throughout the process. Modeling should remain a fun and enjoyable experience.
4. Commit and be a professional: Remember this is a business and child modeling agents will expect you to commit and be available when they send you an audition. Everyone in this industry appreciates manners and a kind, but professional attitude.

Conclusion

Child modeling can be a rewarding and exciting opportunity for young children, providing them with exposure to the world of fashion, advertising, and entertainment. With the right guidance, a reputable talent agency, great headshots and the proper support, your child has a better opportunity for success in this industry. Start by creating a professional portfolio, finding a trusted agency, and getting your casting sites set up. Remember to keep it fun, yet professional.  With the right approach, child modeling can be a positive experience that benefits both your child’s growth and your child's future. 

When your child is ready to try modeling, scan the code below to contact us with your questions or to schedule your photoshoot with the top child modeling headshot photographer in LA.

Child modeling headshot photographer, LA

You can also visit our Instagram, Facebook page or website to learn more about us. Or take a look at our reviews on Google and Yelp.

Robin Lorraine Photography

www.robinlorraine.com

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