How to Get Your Child in Professional Modeling

So you think your child has what it takes to become a professional model? Now how do you break into the business? Well, the good thing is you don't have to pack up and move to New York or L.A. for your child to make it, as there are casting agencies located right in your own town. Before shopping your child around, follow these expert steps that will help get your child noticed.

Invest in Good Headshots

Your child's headshot needs to display their unique personality. A winning look is vital to their success, so keep this in mind when selecting the final shots. If possible, include one headshot and one full length shot.

Children under 4 years of age just need one great photo. This photo can be taken by a professional or by the parents.

The ideal photo is a straight forward shot that actually looks like your child. Include a close up shot and a full length shot. Be sure your child looks attractive, enthusiastic, happy and clean. Photos should be against a blank wall. Select one bright primary color for your child with no hats, sunglasses, logos, make up, bows or fancy pageant dresses etc. The casting director needs to see your child looking like a child, so keep it simple.

Once you are signed with the manager or agent, they will require professional photos. This is standard procedure. Great headshots are important, because they are the only thing that casting directors see to determine whether your child will be called in for an audition or not. Your agent or manager will provide you with a list of professional photographers to work with. Headshots for children typically cost around $200.

Once the photos are done, the manager or agent will then select 3-6 shots they feel best captures your child and will get them noticed by casting directors. In addition to an 8x10 headshot that "pops," your manager or agent will require a ZED or Comp card that displays 4-5 photos on one card to submit to casting directors. From there, your child's manager or agent will generally upload the shots to one of the major online casting services, such as Casting Frontier or LA Casting, to get your child work. These sites require mandatory annual fees of about $36-$154.

Contact a Manager or Agent

Having an agent or manager helps you get your foot in the door. Send the agent or manager headshots of your child along with your child's age, height, weight and sizes printed on the back. If the agent or manager thinks they can get your child work, they will contact you for an audition. After the meeting, you will be asked to sign a contract agreeing to the representation of your child. From there, the agent or manager will contact you when an audition opens up for your child's type.

There are a large number of reputable modeling and talent agencies in all parts of the world. To begin, ask family members, friends, neighbors or co-workers for references, check sites such as New Faces, which keeps a running list of legit agencies or Google agencies in 4-5 big cities nearest you, then give them call.

How Much Does a Manager/Agent Charge?

A manager or agent makes money by getting your child work. In turn, they generally charge between 10%-20% of your child's gross income as a fee. Managers and agents do not get paid unless the child works. Be leery of managers or agents who require upfront costs. However, a small administrative fee of less than $50 is not uncommon.

Once your child has signed a manager or agent, they may be required to apply for a work permit and open a Coogan account. A Coogan account freezes your child's money until they turn 18. By California law, 15% of all minor earnings must be set aside in a blocked trust account, until they turn 18.

Preparing Your Child for Auditions

Keep it fun. Auditioning should be a fun experience for the child, so it is your job as parents to keep it fun. Smiling, happy, confident kids are the ones who get booked. Encourage your child to stay positive and happy. Hug them before they go into the room, and then hug them again when they come out. Let them know that they did a good job, and then pick an activity of their choice to celebrate. Unfortunately, in this business, there are more no's then there are yes's, so remain positive; their time will come.

Whichever audition your child is scheduled for, be sure the product is for one the child actually likes. It will be pretty hard for your child to walk into the audition and sell peanut butter if they don't like it. So, talk with your child about their feelings on the product before the audition.

Lastly, usually when you walk into the room, the casting director will ask the child a few questions to assess their personality. Practice with your child in the car on the way to the audition. Ask them questions that help get their personality brewing such as, "What is your favorite school subject?"

Linda Vojtova is an International Model who has appeared on numerous magazine covers of major magazines around the world. See more of her online portfolio by visiting her website at www.lindavojtova.com

How to Create a Professional Modeling Portfolio

Linda Vojtova editorial portfolio shot

Do you dream of becoming a professional model? Then you need a portfolio. Your portfolio is your first impression as a model. It is the first thing clients and agencies review before deciding to meet you in person. Therefore, it is imperative to build an impressive portfolio that establishes your career as a model. These expert tips on how to create a professional modeling portfolio will help you build a portfolio that you can be proud of.

Determine What Type of Model You Are

Before you spend hundreds on your portfolio, you first need to determine the type of modeling you wish to do. Be realistic with yourself to avoid rejections and setbacks that may occur because you are attempting to enter a genre that does not suit you.

If you wish to become a high fashion model, then showcase your best light with a portfolio that includes a compilation of high fashion images. A freelance model's portfolio should encompass a wide range of shots that beautifully displays their range, and so on.

Invest in High Quality Photos

Your portfolio needs to project the best possible image of yourself. Keep in mind, these photos need to capture the attention of agencies and clients alike. High quality photos not only reveal the best you, but they also set you apart from the crowd.

Your photos should be 9x12-8x10 and in top condition. There should be no bends or folds, and they need to be stored in a high quality portfolio book. Every detail counts. Remember, this is your one chance to prove yourself to the world.

Find a Professional Photographer

When you are searching for a professional photographer, ask questions before making a final decision. Ask for a resume, clients, rates, experience, how many photos are included, and if they print the photos for you or if you are responsible for handling the print on your own. Ask for references of models they have worked with, then contact the models and ask about their experience with the photographer. They can also offer advice about which photos to include in your photos.

Next, determine the type of photos that would best display your modeling expertise. Inform the photographer of your modeling genre, and then ask for their input and suggestions on wardrobe, make up, hair and poises that would complement your type of modeling. Make every attempt to agree on your vision before you begin in order to avoid disappointments later on.

When selecting your photos, you want to select the best of the best. Enlist the aid of the photographer, once again, to help select your final photos. The photographer is experienced in discerning high quality shots, so their input is priceless; however, you have the final say. Select photos that make people notice you.

Include a variety of shots. You don't want to have multiple shots of the same background or wardrobe. Include a non-smiling headshot, a smiling headshot, a 3/4 shot and a full body shot, and the rest you can have fun with.

Headshots

Your portfolio needs to contain a variety of good headshots, also called Polaroids, that display your natural good looks with no makeup and demonstrates your ability to transform yourself into different personalities, characters and ages.

Body Shots

If you plan to apply to larger markets, then your portfolio should include body shots with you in swimwear, Lingerie, or tight fitting clothes. Do not feel pressured to include these types of photos if it is not the type of industry you wish to model for.

Less Is More

As a new model, your portfolio should include 6-12 good quality photos as opposed to a lot of poor quality ones. Established models should have 10-25 high quality photos.

Do My Photos Need To Be in Color?

Color pictures are great, but black and white photos project a certain mood. So don't be afraid to include black and white photos in your portfolio as well.

Lastly, never underestimate the power of a great attitude, so have fun!

Linda Vojtova is an International Model who has appeared on numerous magazine covers of major magazines around the world. See more of her online portfolio by visiting her website at www.lindavojtova.com

How to Become a Professional Model

Linda Vojtova in Elle Australia 2014

Becoming a model is a dream come true for individuals who find themselves enamored with the world of beauty, fashion, glamour and travel and who enjoys being the center of attention. 

To become a professional model not only requires strict research to ensure you sign with a reputable agency, but it also requires a strong commitment on your behalf. If you are determined that you have what it takes to become a professional model, follow these expert tips to help get you in the door.

Take Care of Yourself

First thing's first. To become a professional model means you have to take care of yourself. According to Model Management-one of the top modeling agencies in the world, this means keeping a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water, working out regularly, getting quality rest and avoiding alcohol and smoking. Take care of your hair and skin. Get your hair trimmed regularly to keep it healthy and keep make up at a minimum. If you choose to wear makeup, wash it off every night to avoid break outs.

Have a Good Attitude

A good attitude and a friendly personality always makes a good impression with agencies. Show confidence. Project yourself as the perfect candidate for the job. Display your vibrant personality, but keep it simple.

Dedicate Yourself

Building a successful career as a model takes resilience, time and effort to navigate the ever changing world of the fashion industry. The modeling industry is a fiercely competitive environment. A strong will and confidence goes a long way in this highly chaotic world.

Apply and attend to as many go-sees and castings as possible. This is your job interview and should be treated as such.

Be Professional

If you crave a successful career as a model, then you must be professional! Nobody wants to work with a model who is negative or has an ego. Keep a helpful, positive attitude.

Fashion shoots require more than just perfect poses, you must also be willing to withstand extreme weather and extended hours with the photo studio or fashion designer. Show up on time, be prepared, answer your phone and always return missed calls.

Prepare Yourself

There's more to modeling than just turning and posing. Classes will help build your knowledge of the industry as well as your confidence. The Internet is a good place to locate the right school, teacher and class. Classes focus on niches such as curvy models, mature models, kids, voice projection, print, runway, self-confidence and more. Some classes also combine acting with modeling for an extra edge.

The techniques taught in class are some of the same techniques employed by today's top models. No matter your goals, modeling classes will teach you how to work the camera, provide make up tips, teach you how to pick clothes that flatter you and provide styling pointers.

Make Your Portfolio Shine

Your portfolio is your resume, therefore, it is imperative that it is picture perfect. Make sure your portfolio has enough variation that beautifully displays your potential as a model. Your photos should portray your comfort with the camera as well as your range of expressions and movement.

Think of your portfolio as your short story that you are telling to potential clients. In other words, be sure your story flows and commands the agency's attention.

Keep your portfolio limited to your best photos. Always select photos that display the type of modeling your wish to do. Choose a sturdy, classy looking binder to display your photos. Mix your images. For example, follow a good portrait "head shot" with a total body shot. Avoid placing similar shots in your book, such as two shots of an identical look. And don't be afraid to mix color shots with black and whites. As you grow, replace novice photos with newer ones to keep your portfolio up to date.

When soliciting a photographer, make sure their style of photography compliments the type of modeling you are trying to do. In other words, if you are trying to be a fitness model, don't go to a high fashion photographer. Always ask to see the photographer's work. Most photographers work can be viewed on their website. Observe if you like their style of photography. Do they look reputable? Is their work published in commercials and magazines that you would like to appear in? A published photographer can also recommend you to agents and really give your modeling career a boost.

It is generally okay to bring a chaperone to photo shoots with you. Beware of photographers that insists you come alone.

Model Agency Representation

If you decide to seek representation from a modeling agency, be sure the agency is reputable according to industry standards. Before you sign, read the fine print. Note commission costs, cancellation terms, duration of the contract, exclusivity and hidden costs. If you have any doubts about the agency, do not sign the contract.

Have Fun!

The professional cycle of a model is a short one, so enjoy the ride with passion. Put your heart and mind into your endeavors, and have fun!

Linda Vojtova is an International Model who has appeared on numerous magazine covers of major magazines around the world. See more of her online portfolio by visiting her website at www.lindavojtova.com