Deciding on whether or not to allow your preteen to pursue a career in modeling really depends on you. Guiding your child through the ins and outs of the modeling world requires a great deal of time, patience and money on the part of parents or guardians. You must be available for last minute calls, traveling expenses, and huge blocks of time while your youngster is being tested, photographed, rehearsed and/or made-over. You must be prepared to comfort the rejected child, trim the ego of the overly cocky or weather the tantrums of the tired and cranky.
Your child will most likely need to sign with an agency or service. You must do your homework and research these businesses for legitimacy and suitability. Always be wary if you are asked for money up front. Check with the Better Business Bureau to make sure there aren’t serious complaints or law suits filed against these companies. There are scam artists aplenty out there. The number of lawsuits citing fraudulent practices and unfulfilled promises is staggering. Be informed! There is a Modeling Industry Code of Ethics outlining standards of fairness and honesty. An agency should not guarantee a model employment or should not pressure models to sign a contract.
Familiarity with this code can help you find the right agency. Also, a list of reputable agencies can be found through the Association of Model Agents.
Keeping your child safe should always be your first consideration. Unfortunately, there are many predators out there willing to take advantage of the naïve and vulnerable.
There is no substitute for supervision! Your vigilant presence will discourage many of the ill-meaning, but remember…you will not be allowed through every door your charge goes through. Impress upon your child the importance of not letting anyone touch them in a way that makes them uncomfortable.
You may be told that your child needs to have his or her portfolio available online. There are pretty substantial charges for these services ranging from something like $150 to $300 for 6 months depending on whether or not you want the photos retouched. Your child will need appropriate outfits, hairstyling and the afore-mentioned traveling expenses, so have that checkbook ready.
Lastly, is your child suited for this career? Professionals are looking for children with the right look, personality and presence. This can be a tough business and a lot of money is on the line. People don’t have the luxury of always being kind and considerate of the child’s feelings or yours. Photographers and directors don’t want to waste time and resources coaxing the frightened child out from behind the mother’s back. If your child is overly sensitive or shy and has to be pushed to participate in auditions, interviews or shoots, it may be best to wait awhile until the child matures a little.
Modeling can be a great way to use a child’s God-given attributes to generate confidence and income for college and the entire family, but it is more important that the child have a balance between school, homework, play and a career at such a young age. Your child is your most precious possession. Make sure your dream for your child is what is best for your child. Consider carefully and if you do decide to let them pursue a career in modeling . . . bring a comfortable pair of shoes and the patience of Job.
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