Do you have the right temperament for modeling? There can be a lot of waiting around at castings and auditions, so be prepared.
FINDING AN AGENCY
If you go to a modeling agency that requires an upfront fee or money for head shots before they will work with you, TURN AND RUN!
No reputable modeling agency will ever require you to pay upfront fees. Agencies make money only after you have booked a job. If an agency is interested in representing you, read any contract carefully and be sure you understand the terms. Also make sure the agency is licensed and bonded.
Once you have an agent, you will need to provide photographs. Professional shots aren't necessary because they change so quickly. A close-up of the face will suffice. Most agents want at least 25 photos, and you will need professional pictures, called a composite or comp card.
While a legitimate agency will not ask for money upfront, they may give you the phone number of a photographer. The agent uses the photos to represent you. You may also pay for a clothing stylist and a make-up artist, plus the printing of the comp cards.
have seen your child's photograph and are interested enough to see him or her in person. Request castings usually mean the client knows the specific look they want -- a 5-year-old boy with red hair, for example -- and invites only kids who meet that criteria. These calls are usually well-organized with minimal waiting.
CASTING CALLS
Hopefully, the day will come when the agent will sends you on a casting call.
There are a few different types. The best type is a "request casting.'' This means that the decision-makers at a company, such as Old Navy or The Gap, open castings are a different story altogether. They can be very crowded, since many different agencies send all of their clients who fit the call.
HANDLING REJECTION
If you do not get the job, do not get discouraged! Keep in mind the casting director may have wanted a certain look or that you were the wrong size for the job.
Page 2