We were recently at the mall where we were stalked by a “modeling and talent scout.” They started out by asking how old our kids are. We always get stopped by people wanting to ask questions about the twins and we usually oblige so we politely answered. That was our first big mistake and we knew it immediately upon answering.
Modeling and talent scouts prey on parents (or other would be starlets) who are convinced that this may be their long lost ticket to stardom. The price? A mere $1500 or more for head shots and what is called a “comp card” that is in theory used to get your child work.
Our stalker, an attractive young guy, assured us that he had never seen such beautiful children and that he knew, we could definitely get work for them. Couldn’t we use a little help with college tuition? At this point, my husband told him that we aren’t planning on sending our children to college and we promptly left.
For the record, we fully intend to send our kids to college. . .but I suspect going through a talent scout agency is likely to set us further back in our goals. But he did get me thinking, what would it take to see my little darlings in pictures?
First of all, you need to live in the right place. If your child is not where the casting, or photo shoots are happening, it’s not really worth the effort. There are a plethora of modeling agencies in New York City, Los Angeles, and similarly big cities.
Secondly, you need to get an agent for your baby. What do the agencies that represent famous models say to do? Send a couple of photos of your baby to the agency. (Most agencies have websites with addresses.) If they think they can get your little darling work, they will call you. Since we’re talking about babies, try to send one full body shot and one close up of the face. Don’t send professional photos and don’t send things your parents would think are “cute.” Modeling agencies, don’t like pictures of Halloween costumes, or baby with food all over his face. Babies should be wearing a diaper or plan clothing.
Just because the agency calls you, doesn’t mean your child will get work. Babies, unlike adult models, don’t have to be perfect. What they do need is a very easy going personality. However, more important than baby’s personality is mother’s personality. Mom’s can make or break their baby’s would-be career by being unprofessional or overly pushy.
So should your baby be in magazines, on bill boards and in commercials? Maybe, but look for my next article to find out if modeling is something you really want to do with your baby.