5 tips for parents when selecting a modeling agency for children

First:

It is very important that your child is the one who wants to break into the entertainment industry. Agents and casting directors are hesitant to meet with a family if the parents are pressuring the child into our industry. We want to see the kid practically begging to get into our industry. WHY? Because once the kid starts auditioning or working on potential bookings, we’ll know right away if this is the kid’s dream or the parent’s dream. Simply ask your child, “Do you really want to be on TV and have your picture taken?” If your son responds with more than just pure excitement and motivation, I suggest that she sign him up for sports or another extracurricular activity.

Second:

When searching for child modeling agencies in your city (or the nearest larger city), visit the agency’s website and ask other parents in the industry. The main thing you are looking for are SUCCESS CASES. I’m not specifically talking about big projects or leading roles in movies. But does that agency have simple success stories to show that it would work for your child? (Commercials, music videos, print ads, etc.) You should expect to provide your child’s agent with all the tools they need, including industry-standard professional images, acting classes, website listing, and video demos for representation.

Third:

Ask the modeling agency how many children they already represent who are similar to your child’s appearance, age, and ethnicity. This is very important so your child doesn’t get lost in the mix. If they represent 20 children who are similar to your child, the chance of them calling your child is drastically reduced. Also, when you visit the agency and meet for representation, remember to look around to see how many children are similar to your child. Sometimes your relaxed and non-intrusive research will help you make a smart decision.

Four:

Remember that you are interviewing the modeling agency as much as they are interviewing you. Not all agencies are suitable for all models. You have to make sure that your child has chemistry with the talent agent. Your child may be asked to audition for the agency. This is normal. Also, it is typical for the agency not to make an immediate decision. Unless you’re 100 percent comfortable, never sign a contract during that initial meeting. Take some time to read the contract and do some more research on the agency.

Fifth and last:

The most important thing is to thank the agency for their time and immediately send a follow-up email or simple card that says “Thank you!” It’s simple but it will go a long way in helping the agency know that you are a calm family. They are signing their son, however, they have to like it too. If they decide to move on to your child, start the process all over again by finding another modeling agency. Our industry has a lot of rejection. But remember, you just need a “YES” to get started! Now, go break a leg!