Baby and Child Modeling

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly of Child Modeling

Child modeling, like any other kind of modeling, has its upsides and downsides. If you go into it with open eyes and a clear picture of what you are getting yourself and your child into, you are more likely to stick with it and be successful.

The Good Side of Child Modeling

• Money
  Everyone knows that the “big time” models make big bucks. This is definitely an upside to child modeling. You may have to start out doing a few free shows before the money starts coming in, but if you play it smart; your child can make good money in modeling.
• Fame
  The more popular models, who have made it to the big time, do have a certain degree of fame. For some people this is a perk, for others it is not so attractive. With fame does come a certain degree of loss of privacy. Be careful what you wish for.
• Glamour
  Kids can get really caught up in the glamour of modeling and, let’s face it, modeling is really glamorous and fun – most of the time anyway. There are always the fur coats in summer and swimsuits in winter and those are not always glamorous and fun, but there are jobs that are lots of fun and very glamorous.

• Loss of Control
  The deeper your child gets into modeling, the less control you will have. Your child may be required to keep his or her hair a certain way, remain at a certain weight and even be forbidden to eat or drink certain products. There is a certain loss of control that comes with modeling.
• Odd Hours
  Sometimes, photo shoots and modeling jobs can fall at off hours. There can also be jobs that fall during your child’s nap time or bed time, resulting in a cranky child. Make sure that your child is fairly flexible and resilient.
• Frustration
  Most fashion shows are choreographed and it can be very frustrating when your child is trying to learn the choreography and feels pressured. Perhaps your child has to maintain a certain weight. That can be very frustrating as well.

The Ugly Side of the Modeling Industry

• Bad People
  Bad people do happen to the modeling agency and often innocent children are the victims. It is important that you remain close to your child as well as empower them to leave any situation that makes them feel uncomfortable. It is up to you to instill self confidence and awareness in your child so that they do not fall victim to the “bad people.”
• Manipulation
  Modeling is a manipulative industry and child modeling is no different. Some unscrupulous people will stop at nothing to get what they want. If it means manipulating you or your child, so be it. Stay alert and assertive and watch for people who try to bend you to their will.
• Dishonesty
  Dishonest people are everywhere and that includes the modeling industry. Your child’s welfare is your number one priority. Take care of your child while promoting their career. Beware of scam artists. Learn to spot scammers and people who are not honest – and put distance between that person and your child.

Armed with knowledge you can pursue your child’s modeling career with confidence. That’s why I recommend doing a lot of research before you take that first picture or call that first agent. One good resource is the Model Child ebook that explains how to get into child modeling. If you will invest a few dollars in learning all you can, you will be able to avoid all the “bad and the ugly” in child modeling.