How to Get Your Tween Started in Modeling

Many tween girls see models on TV and in magazines and decide they want to be one. Once you have decided how serious they are you may want to help your tween get started in modeling. Here is what you need to know.

Instructions

1. Give your tween the cold hard facts. Let her know that her chances of becoming a model are slim. If she is still very interested in being a model, resolve to make it a project you will do together as long as it continues to be a fun, positive experience.

2. Evaluate your contacts. There may be a chance that you know someone who is already modeling or who had modeled. Most stories you hear about getting started in modeling will tell you that the model knows someone or met someone who "discovered" them. If your contact cannot get your tween started in modeling, they will at least be able to give you advice on getting them started.

3. Go door to door. Look for modeling agencies in your area or in the closest major city and verify that they are legitimate with the Better Business Bureau websites. New York, Atlanta, Florida, and California will have the most legitimate modeling agencies. Call to make an appointment or find out when their open calls are. Take your tween to see them at the appointed times.

4. If your tween is truly model material, model scouts will approach her. It is your job to take their information, go to an appointment or two and to determine if they are a scout for a legitimate modeling agency or not.

5. Groom your tween to be a model. Help her to perfect her posture, to find her best smile, to take care of her skin and to stay fit. Look for one-time model workshops available in the form of summer camps. Avoid modeling schools that will teach her for an undetermined length of time and they are just out to take your money.

Tips & Warnings

• Take a few good pictures of yourself to take with you on shoots. You will need a face shot and a body shot. Do not spend a lot of money to have the pictures taken.

• Always check model agencies online for reports of fraud.

• Do not fall for demands for money to take professional photographs. This is just a ploy to take your money. A real modeling agency will never charge you for a portfolio.

• While a tiny number of models get jobs through modeling schools and mall talent contests, the chances are incredibly slim.

• If you have to pay any amount of money to get your tween into modeling, you are working with the wrong agency.