How to Choose Reputable Baby Modeling Agencies
You've heard over and over from family and friends that your baby is beautiful and advertisers would pay a mint to get that face on their product. So you decide to check out what it takes to launch your child's career in modeling. Finding an agency to represent your baby can be tricky because there are so many scams designed to exploit your hopes and lack of knowledge of the industry. However, a few basic rules of thumb can help you find a reputable baby modeling agency.
Instructions
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Avoid any agency that requires an upfront fee. Legitimate modeling agencies will accept your baby and you as clients, and will try to find the best and most appropriate jobs for you.The agency will take a commission or a percentage of your earnings as pay.
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Do not invest in an expensive set of professional photographs. A lot of child-modeling scam artists will tell you your baby could be the next big star, but they will need some top-notch photos to pitch to clients and scouts. They often hand you a card with a photographer's name or direct you down the hall to an in-house studio where you can get those photos taken for hundreds of dollars. Legitimate agencies never ask for a portfolio, especially for babies who are quickly growing and changing.
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Search the Internet for modeling agencies in your area. Reputable agencies do not need to advertise for new models. They are swamped with scores of photo submissions every week. Agencies that have solid histories and major clients in the modelling world will tell those stories on their websites. A little research will help you narrow down which agencies have the best reputations and business practices.
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Log on to a modeling industry site for models and check out the forums for baby modeling. Model Mayhem (modelmayhem.com) and Back Stage (backstage.com) are two sites for working and aspiring models and actors. They provide news, information and tips on all aspects of the business. Both sites have forums where you can post questions about agencies and their track records. Members of these sites frequently warn others about scams. They also offer advice about the most dependable agencies.
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Submit some photos and information to major agencies in your area. Modeling agencies often use submitted photos to screen potential baby models. Most websites will tell you specifically what types of photos, such as a head shot and a full body shot, to submit. Photos that you've taken that show your baby's features and special personality are best. If managers at the agency feel they can find work for your baby, they will contact you for an
interview.
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Tips & Warnings
Reputable Baby Modeling Agencies do not advertise for models and do not require upfront joining fees or the like so be careful of those.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images