Cara Delevingne, Robert Pattinson and Hayden Panettiere all launched their careers as child models – and your little one might enjoy it too.
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Since 1990, Models Direct has worked with children and as such can offer valuable, expert advice before you embark upon your journey together.
Our depth of knowledge and breadth of experience in finding work for youngsters means we are in a unique position when it comes to helping your child model to find success – so here are our top tips:
You know your child better than anyone else and you know how well they might be suited to the work. Think about their qualities and characteristics and determine whether they will enjoy the challenge and variety of the work.
Ask yourself whether they are bright, sparky and engaging – if they can be confident, independent and outgoing, and whether they are able to follow instructions.
Think carefully about who you would like to represent your child. Do your research thoroughly and don’t rush into choosing a modelling agency without a full understanding of how they operate.
Make sure you opt for an agency with a good solid reputation as you need someone you feel you can trust.
Be wary of “showcase agencies” that will not actively find work for your child. These are not talent agencies but tend to be online companies that tempt models in with flashy photo shoots – and instead of seeking assignments simply showcase pictures.
And with many showcase agencies, would-be models are expected to pay for the photography further down line…
Finding a properly regulated agency is essential for your peace of mind.
Models Direct, for example, is a government regulated, employment agency. As such, we adhere to the government’s Employment Agency Standards and are regularly inspected by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy.
Your child may well already take drama, singing or music classes or enjoy indulging in dancing, sports or gymnastics in their spare time.
If they are passionate about particular activities, then taking up hobbies like this can really help them to stand out in a crowd. It can aid their development as an individual and also promote social interaction.
Learning performance skills can boost self-confidence and offer valuable building blocks for any child model. The key, however, is to find activities they enjoy and that also encourage a healthy self-image.
It is important not to have preconceived ideas about how your child’s modelling career might develop – and it is vital to listen to expert advice.
It always helps if you are open to a variety of work. Trade for Print (TFP), for example, can be a great way of getting started. This is where a team of people, usually including a photographer, and sometimes hair and makeup artists too, collaborate on a photo shoot: no-one is paid but everyone gains a set of professional images for their portfolio.
If your child is to become a model, then you will also need to be full of energy. You will need to work hard and be proactive on their behalf.
Once you have accepted an offer of representation then keep on top of what is required by the agency. Ensure online profiles are up to date with recent images and a current biography; make sure you collect references following assignments and expand your child’s portfolio as their career develops.
