Breaking in to Modeling
"Different Jobs Call for Different Pictures"
At ChildrenInFilm.com we talk a lot about how to break in to the business as a child performer, but did you know that Children In Film also supports hundreds of successful child models as well?
Breaking in to the modeling business is a dream for many, and for others it is also a great lead-in to other opportunities such as roles in commercials.
"I always say modeling is acting without speaking," said Petrina Herman of KSR Talent.
Often young entertainers turn to modeling to get their feet wet in the industry and then move on to doing other types of performance.
"Modeling requires far less preparation and is the easiest area to break in to provided that the model has a healthy athletic look, great features, energy for the camera and is the exact size that the buyers seek," explained Carol Lynn Sher, Director of Commercials and Print in the Youth Department at CESD.
But even though modeling is a great way to break in, models must still learn important skills such as how to hold your body for the camera, how to make great first impressions with people you don't yet know and generally how to perform because while you may not always be performing a script, as a model, you are playing a role with every shoot you take on.
As with the entertainment business, breaking in to the modeling business requires research, preparation and important tools. For example, children under the age of 18 working on a shoot in California still require an entertainment work permit. Did you know that agents for models generally take a 20% commission rather than the 10% that most actor's agents take? There is a lot to learn!
To get started, you'll first need to really consider what type of model you want to be because each type requires a different type of picture. Be honest with yourself in deciding what type of model you truly are capable of being. Are you tall, skinny, muscular, athletic? There's a different type of model for each situation, so you don't have to be 5' 10'' and perfectly thin, but you do have to know your own body. For kids, sizes 5 and 10 are the most in demand.
"Casting for models is very specific," Carol Lynn explained. "We are asked to present models within a ½ inch height requirement."
You'll also need to build experience which includes enhancing your appearance by working out or getting involved in sports, developing a personal style, and practicing interviewing skills.
After that, the key to successfully launching a modeling career is putting together a successful portfolio.
To learn more about building a modeling portfolio
| 
