How to get your child into modeling in Tokyo

Moving to Japan? Learn how to get your child into the thriving Japanese modeling industry and make up to $1000/day!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A child
• Digital camera
• Measuring tape
• Internet connection

1. Take 4-5 photos of your child, some with head shots and some full-body. Transfer these photos onto your computer.

2. Measure your child. Generally agencies wish to know the following statistics: age, height (in centimeters), shoe size (in centimeters), weight (in kilograms), hair color, eye color. Sometimes bust, waist, and hip sizes are also necessary.

3. Sign up with an agency. If you are US Military stationed overseas, you can attend a semi-annual modeling fair on-base. If you are not military, you can still sign up with the agencies by contacting them directly. Do a web search for "Japanese Modeling Agencies" on the internet, or go to the web sites of one of the agencies I use:
   
   http://www.epromotion.co.jp/
   http://www.avocado.co.jp/
   http://www.sugar-spice.co.jp/
   http://kmpro.co.jp/

4. The agencies will call you when they find possible jobs. Keep your schedule open and flexible as there is usually a date range for the shoot. Sometimes there is an audition which you will need to attend. Otherwise, it is a photo-selection.

5. About two months after a photo shoot, you can get paid. There are generally three methods: setup a Japanese bank account for direct deposit (there is a fee for this), go to the modeling agency directly when payment is ready, or (if you are military) pick up your money at the next modeling fair.

Tips & Warnings

• You can use many online tools to convert from US measurements to metric measurements. Simply type "Convert X inches to centimeters" in a Google search box.
• When going to an audition or photo shoot, make sure to bring everything your child needs for the full day. This could include diapers, non-messy snacks, drinks, toys/entertainment, and a change of clothes. It can get boring sometimes waiting for your child's turn in front of the camera. Don't forget stuff for mommy or daddy, too!
• It is better to avoid putting earrings on your child before an audition or photo shoot.

Resources

• View the full text article on my web site

[dajabon]

on 10/31/2009 Very interesting and informative how-to article. Thanks nuigurumi!

BTW, is a working visa needed by parent or child for the child to do modeling in Japan?

[Thims]

on 12/15/2008 Interesting article. I knew a New Zealander who was teaching English in Japan and her daughter was a model there. It must be a huge business. Good article.

[frenchwriter]

on 12/15/2008 Ohio gozaimas. There is a lot to learn in Japan as far as family values are concerned. I sold many American Tshirts and Western wear in the Rappongi district in Tokyo. Amazingly, Japanese will dress like cowboys and Harley Davidson riders. Now selling Abercrombie and Ralph Lauren.

Good tips if you move there. Sayonara... Michel

[iamageniuster]

on 10/12/2008 All right! I'll do this once I have kids. Thanks.

[listenhere101]

on 9/23/2008 That's sounds great. Thanks a bunch. Japan is a great place to visit.