Myth Busters

The modeling business has always been full of myths and misinformation. If you want your child to be successful in this field, it's in your best interest to be able to distinguish between fact from fiction. Luckily, you’ve got me on your side, and I'm here to give you the low down. Following are a few myths—fully busted— that are pulled from my Ebook. 

Myth: Only “beautiful” children are successful

Fact: Children of all shapes, sizes, colors and look types are needed in the modeling industry. Just watch television commercials or look through the Sunday paper ads. You'll see how widely appearances vary. Also, advertisers and agencies love working with children who have great personalities because that personality comes through in the pictures and on film. So although conventional attractiveness can play a role, it's hardly what will make or break a career. 

Myth: Modeling school is the only way my child will get work

Fact: Modeling school can be a positive experience for children if used as a place where they learn to follow directions, build confidence, and meet new friends. The schools themselves may claim you need them to succeed, but many kids break into modeling without going to modeling school first. 

Myth: All child models make a lot of money

Fact: Basic hourly rates for children range from $40-$150 per hour (before the booker’s* fee). "A lot" is relative, depending on your expectations and how much your child works. My perspective is that any money saved from your child’s modeling will become a lot of money if invested wisely. Even if they make only $200 one year, that money will compound into a healthy sum if saved until college. 

Myth: My child is guaranteed work once an agency/school is representing him.

Fact: I'm sure you're familiar with the famous saying “In life there are no guarantees." Well, there are no guarantees in modeling either.  Once an agency agrees to represent your child, they have committed to promoting that child—nothing more.  Reputable agencies only represent children they think are marketable, so if you're child is in an agency, the odds of getting work are already on their side. But representation is not an automatic ticket to abundant, ongoing of work. 

Myth: We can supplement our family income with our child’s modeling income.

Fact: Money earned by your child is just that…your child’s money.  As a parent/guardian you are legally entitled only to a certain percentage of your child’s income. This amount is allocated to compensate you for the management and transportation costs involved in helping them. Personally, I think the only thing to consider supplementing is your child’s savings account. 

Myth: Modeling is easy work & easy money.

Fact: Not necessarily. Think about this: when you're working, you are exerting energy - either mental or physical.  Many times photo shoots sound like fun, but your child may have to stand completely still, smile for longer than usual, or repeat an action ten or even twenty times in a row!   So it's always good to have realistic expectations, and to convey to your child that they are working and need to follow directions to do a good job. 

Myth: Any child can become a model.

Fact: In theory any child could become a model.  In reality it takes a certain temperament to be successful. Children have to be flexible and easy going, able to deal well with auditions (averaging 10 minutes – 1 hour), call backs, strangers, fake smiling, etc.  The reality is, it's not every kid's cup of tea. 

Myth: Your child gets to keep the clothing and products they are modeling. 

Fact: With my kids, the opportunity has arisen to buy clothing after a photo shoot at a discounted rate, since the clothing cannot be returned. But never have my children been given clothing or products. This is not something that should ever be expected. 

Myth: Personality doesn’t matter, only looks.

Fact: Nothing is more false!  I would venture to say that although looks are important, personality actually overshadows looks. Personality comes through on camera, and a good-natured child is a pleasure to work with. 

Myth: Every job your child gets will be endless amounts of fun.

Fact: Not necessarily. I helped a women select and format a great picture of her one year old daughter.  Her daughter was signed to a Minneapolis agency, Moore Creative Talent (the top agency in Minneapolis). Her Daughter’s first job was a national ad for a department store! Mom and baby showed up to the job on time.  The photo shoot lasted close to 5 hours (the baby only had to model for under an hour).  Unfortunately, client did not provide any food or drinks appropriate for a toddler! This scenario is very rare—most jobs for very young children are only an hour or two and most supply refreshments—but my point is, sometimes it feels like work for both parent and child!