Is there a way to start my child in modeling without hiring a agent?

Answer 1

I am a commercial print model, and so are my 3 children. We have all done print jobs that run national and international for 10 years. I wouldn't recommend doing any modeling jobs without an agent (unless you know the person hiring you!) with the exception of the department store catalogs as the other answer suggests (but many hire thru agencies primarily). There are plenty of pervs and pedophiles out there HOPING that they can get someone to "work" for them without an agent! They then have your phone number, address etc. Not a good idea... Having a good agent (and a good stage name) can shield you somewhat from unscrupulous people by weeding out those who truly are doing legitimate business and are Professional and willing to pay an agent for finding a model who is professional. Most people hiring models (such as Disney, etc) are shelling out THOUSANDS of dollars for each phot shoot, so therefore they wouldn't mess with an individual not represented by an agency. If someone is with an agency (hopefully) the company hiring the model knows that they will be professional, on time, have correct wardrobe if needed etc etc and they won't be wasing $$ or time waiting for just a person on their own to hopefully show up prepared for the job. Just submit snapshots to local agents to see if they have a "need" for a child your childs age, size, hair & eye color. Being pretty is not the only thing they look for. A good agent only represents so many "blonde haired, green eyed 4 year olds" at a time as to ensure that they get hired when the need for that particular type child arises. If you get rejected, keep trying! It doesn't mean your child is not "model material". It simply means that at that time they don't need "her look". It has happened to my children, and eventually as other kids "quit" the business or go into a funky phase, they have more need to hire other children.

Answer 2

There are many ways to start your child without an agent but you better be prepared for disappointments and finances. First you need to find an exceptional photographer that has a history or book of models. Don't go to the mall and get one of those kid photographers to do a book for you. You are going to need composite sheets plus many postcards of your child. The photographer can give you places that does this work or just look it up in the trade papers such as Backstage. Also go to Backstage.com. There is several trade books out put out by the publishers of Backstage. You will need to get every casting agents name, address, and phone number. You are going to have to take your daughter to NYC and go to these people to show your daughter to them plus bring the portfolio with you. Leave behind the composites. Also, there are many modeling websites that you can post your daughter's pictures on there.

Eventually your daughter will need to get representation. Also, send her composite to local department stores marketing division. These are the people that create their newspaper ads.

Answer 3

yes go to a modling school