Sunday, February 15, 2009

Baby Modeling Tips

Teens, adults and seniors aren’t the only ones chosen to be models. Baby models are always in high demand and if you think your little one has what it takes to make it in the industry, there are a few steps you’ll want to take note of in this post.

When it comes to baby models, I strongly encourage parents to get agency representation for their baby instead of trying to freelance. Having the backing of a modeling agency is not only the safest way of introducing your baby to the modeling world it is also the best way to ensure that your baby receives the best opportunities, clients, and pay.

However, it is important to know that not all modeling agencies work with baby models. In your search for the right agency, you’ll only be able to deal with agencies that either specialize in baby models or have a baby modeling division. It won’t matter how beautiful or charming your baby is, if the agency you’re interested in does not represent babies, you’ll be wasting your time. Make sure to check that each agency you look into states that it represents babies and take note of the age range requirements before submitting pictures and images.

Just as with older models, baby models don’t need professional pictures or a portfolio in order to snag an agent. Again, agencies almost always prefer non professional, digital snapshots over professionally polished images. Of course your baby won’t be doing any standing shots for a ¾ pose so take into account that photographing your baby for agency submission will be different than if you were submitting for your teen or younger child.

One of the most important factors for parents to keep track of when putting their baby into modeling is keeping up with his/her measurements/sizes. When it comes to potential baby models, measurements and sizes are super important information for agencies. Babies grow each day. This means your baby will gain more weight, will get taller, and will begin to develop physically. This is a challenge when casting for babies so if you aren’t on top of your baby’s measurements and stats, this will make the agency’s job much more difficult. Agencies will ask for monthly updates of sizes and measurements. If you have any problems measuring your child or finding the right sizes, you can ask your agent for assistance. Chances are they’ll have instructions for the parents of baby models to follow to ensure they report the right information.

Baby models also have to do test shoots for a portfolio, put together a comp/zed card, and other promotional material in order for the agency to properly market them so be prepared for those events in addition to taking your baby to castings and shoots. When it comes to paying upfront fees before being offered a contract, the same standard applies to baby modeling agencies as regular modeling agencies…don’t do it!!! Only when you have a signed contract in your hands can you be asked to cover any costs if needed. When it comes to baby modeling, be wary of scouts or recruiters. Legit baby modeling agencies don’t use recruiters to find babies at hot spots around town like they would teens and young adults. If you get approached, go home and do your research on the person that talked to you and be on the lookout for a potential scam. Online modeling agencies should also be treated with caution when it comes to sending your baby’s photos online. Unfortunately, scammers and pedophiles do what they can to get images of babies and young children so don’t fall into this trap. Deal with agencies that have a proven track record of success, great clients, and are well known. This will decrease your chances of becoming a victim.

No comments:

Post a Comment