Modeling is one of those careers that most teens and preteens think is more fun than work. What they do not realize is that it takes a ton of perseverance and dedication in order to reach success.
Even if you start off with a super young modeling career, every time you reach a plateau or need to get to that next level, it will be like starting new. The entertainment and visual arts industry will open up some fabulous opportunities for those who have what it takes.
However, when your child is entering into the business, you need to make sure they are as prepared to meet with potential agencies, as you would be if you were interviewing for any other dream job.
There are materials that you must include in your presentation materials in order to show your level of commitment and to present yourself as a serious professional. Especially, if you will be presenting your child to any of the top list modeling agencies like; Elite, Ford or IMG.
Getting Pictures and Requirements
The modeling industry is a highly visual industry, and it's difficult for a new model to proceed past the initial interview if they do not have good photos. Your child's photos will need to demonstrate that your teenager has the "it" factor.
The pictures should demonstrate how versatile they are with posing for photographers and expressions. They need to convey a wide range of characters, different looks, different poses and different outfits.
Since your photo will be the most important part to starting off your career, you will want to treat every photo shoot like it is the most important event of your life. You will want your young or preteen to practice different looks every day in the mirror for a while before the photo session.
Get your preteen to practice some high fashion looks and poses. They also need to rehearse the same number of commercial looks. Practicing before a photography session will not only bring them closer to getting great images for the portfolio but will also save you time and money on rescheduling photo shoots.
If you are totally new to the modeling industry and you are not able to afford a professional photographer. You can take some pictures or head shots yourself using a regular 35 mm or digital camera. Make sure and crop the shots for an appealing look or use a graphics program to improve the lighting and color.
Develop a Resume
For parents of new teen or preteen models a resume can be a difficult task. However, there are a few creative things you can do to enhance your teenager's resume.
You can try to get your little model involved in some small, local modeling jobs, or make up your own projects. If you have any experience using graphic computer software, you can create a brochure that represents the look of your teen or toddler.
These are just a few tips by our experts at Child Actor LA for getting super young models started in the business. A quick search online will yield more answers. The main thing is not to give up too soon!