The Mini-Modeling Manual For Kids

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Please note much of this publication is from personal experience. However, I have made every reasonable attempt in providing accuracy in the content that is presented; I assume no responsibility for errors or omissions. Also, use this information as you see fit and at your own discretion.

Any trademarks, services, agency names or featured name are assumed to be the property of their respective owners and used only for reference. There is no implied or paid affiliation with any agency or companies mentioned.

@2017, 2018 All Rights Reserved

Acknowledgment:

First, I would like to thank my daughter, Athena, because she doesn’t know how much she has inspired me to be the best mother possible. From the moment I was pregnant I’ve always said I would do my best to expose and introduce her to almost everything. She has pushed me to do everything I said I would and more. I love you beyond words. Your number 1 fan. – Mommy I want to also thank my Aunt Gail for being very supportive and assisting with taking Athena to auditions and casting at the last minute. It truly takes a village, and she has stepped up tremendously. Thank you for just being you! A phenomenal woman…

Lastly to my husband Shawn, thank you for always pushing Athena and me to do our own thing and to make a name for ourselves. I truly appreciate you and love you!

Disclaimer: Please note that this publication does not guarantee that your child will be signed to an agency of any kind, get booked for jobs, or become a child performer. Nor do I guarantee that your child will become rich. I am merely providing guidelines to help assist parents in getting their child started in the business. I hope you as the parent, is constantly performing research on the business. Ensuring your child’s safety and best interests should always be your main concern.

Good luck on your journey!

Personal Statement: In this business, you will dedicate a lot of time on go-sees, castings, and call-backs. It’s important to note that this business is very time consuming and many times unpaid, unless your child books a job. It requires a parent or guardian to accompany the child to ALL castings and bookings. Therefore, this entails a huge commitment from you and your child. It’s imperative that your child wants to do this. There is nothing more unpleasant and obvious than a child who is being forced by a stage parent.

Secondly, this business is very competitive. You may think your child is the most beautiful child, and he or she may be, but when it comes to this business, that does not matter. It has to do with professionalism, a well-mannered child, and if the child fits the casting director’s specifications for the job. Remember there is room for everyone’s child to shine. What is meant for your child cannot be taken away. Be gracious, be kind, be supportive, and have fun with other parents and children while experiencing these new opportunities.

Let’s Get Started: My daughter Athena is a child actress and model that has been in this industry since she was five years old. We began the process previously, but with my challenging work schedule and the demands of the business, we took several breaks between the ages of two to five. It became a personal interest of Athena’s to embark on this career, but she is aware that if at any time she no longer wants to do this, then we will stop.

To date, Athena has filmed one movie, “Madeline’s Madeline” directed by Josephine Decker, a host of print ads for companies such as Group USA Flower Girl Dresses and Toys ‘R Us, Girl Scouts of America’s catalog, and one of the faces on the packaging for Hasbro’s Perfection game, just to name a few.

Throughout this manual, I am going to share what I’ve learned over the course of this journey. Hopefully, this information will help you and your child get started on the path to a successful career.

Types of Work at Various Ages: If you have a child that falls within the age of newborn to about four to five years old, print work is usually the kind of work available in an abundance. There are commercials, television shows, and movie roles available, but they are far and few in between in comparison to the print jobs. Children under the age of six years old can only work a limited amount of hours by law. Therefore, companies usually hire an older child to play a younger role since they can work on a set for more hours. Also, at age six kids are generally in school and are able to read the scripts independently. Keep that in mind when considering where your child would fit best and what kind of work would be available. Once your child is legally six years old, more opportunities will become available.

What Is An Agent? What Is A Manager?

Let’s talk about one of the biggest things that may be a source of confusion. I get asked all the time to explain the difference between an agent and a manager. To make it as simple as possible, an agent finds the jobs your child is right for and submits your child’s information, while a manager guides your child on a career path and helps keep things in order. Casting directors submit jobs to agents and request that agents send them the best-qualified talent on their roster. A manager works directly with your agent.

Some managers also find work and have a relationship with casting directors, but the primary role of a manager is to provide you with sound advice, guidance, and resources that help grow your child’s career.

Ultimately they keep all of the moving parts in order. Many times an agent will recommend that you and your child work with a manager if they feel your child may not be ready to sign directly with their agency but believes that the child has talent. Some agents will cooperate with you directly if you solicit them.

An agent gets paid 10% of your child’s gross pay when your child books a job. A manager gets paid 10%-15%, industry standard, of your child’s gross pay when your child books a job. Agents and managers only get paid when your child works. You do not need to EVER pay for their services upfront, before being booked.

In the past, having both an agent and a manager worked best for Athena.

Types of Agents: Now that we’ve discussed the differences between managers and agents, let’s talk about the types of agents that are available to help get your child’s career started. If you want your child to get into modeling and have the opportunity to be featured in magazines, digital advertisements, and billboards – you will need a Print agent. If you want your child to have the chance to be featured in commercials or get into voiceovers, those are opportunities that are found by a Commercial agent. Prospects to audition for television shows, movies and Broadway come from a Theatrical agent.

Your goal is to land an agent or manager for your child that has the best rapport with casting directors.

You may be wondering, “How in the heck will I do that?” Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered! It’s just like looking for a job. You have to be prepared and equipped with the right tools. Continue reading.

Let’s Talk Photos PICTURES!!!!! I cannot stress enough how important having the right pictures are! Securing a meeting with a manager or agent to scoring adequate representation all depends on your child’s photographs.

Photos for modeling, commercials, and theatrical jobs slightly vary from one another. If you are seeking a Print (modeling) agent for your child, you will need full length and 3/4 length lifestyle/editorial style photos, as well as close-up face shots or headshots. Commercial agents and Theatrical agents require headshots and sometimes 3/4 length shots. In commercial shots, the child is usually smiling. Theatrical headshots are usually more serious.

For newborns to children up to three years old, as mentioned earlier, most of the work available will be modeling jobs. I don’t recommend that you go crazy doing a bunch of photo shoots, but you must have a picture that represents your child well. You can take a quality photo on your phone or personal camera, like a DSLR. It isn’t necessary to shoot with a professional photographer at this age, especially since children under the age of three change frequently as they are growing. I am not against professional photos at this age, but it usually isn’t required.

DIY Photo Guide + Handy List of Things to Remember When taking a photo of your child, make sure you have: 1. Clean and clear background 2. Good lighting 3. Your child must be facing forward, with their eyes connecting with the camera 4. Your child should be the only person in the photo 5. The child should be smiling or naturally happy, expressive, and show personality 6. Clothing patterns should NOT be busy and must be clean, neat, and ironed. Select colors that are vibrant. Stay away from all white, all black or dark colors on your child.

Hair + Make-up Athena at two years old

Leaving your child’s hair out or down (similar to the picture), in its natural state, a ponytail, two pigtails, or a simple braid is what I recommend for girls when taking pictures. For boys who have a lot of hair, style the hair how you typically would on an average day. If you normally cut your son’s hair, make sure it’s fresh and neat. Ultimately, how you usually style your child’s hair is what the photo should show. You wouldn’t want to submit a photo of your child that doesn’t represent him or her. Makeup should be minimal to look completely natural or opt to not apply any at all. Oh, and I almost forgot to mention this: be sure that your child’s lips are not chapped and their skin is moisturized. Agents want to feel confident that if they send your child to an audition, he or she will show up looking similar to the picture they submitted to the Casting Director.

Professional Photographs By the time your child is about three years old, their features may not change as frequently. It's recommended to get professional photos at this stage so that he or she will be able to withstand the competition. It also shows that you are taking this seriously, but please don’t go crazy spending tons of money on a million photo shoots! It isn’t necessary. You just have to find a photographer that is best for

the job and works well with your child. For example, I would never hire a landscaping photographer to capture a portrait of my daughter! Choose a photographer that specializes in children’s photography.

The cost of photos can be pretty expensive and are usually from $150 to photograph one to two looks, and up to $500 for three to four looks. Take your time in researching the right photographer. You want to be sure that your money is well invested, but don’t break the bank to acquire photos. Be sure to ask questions.

Make sure they have experience working with children and work well with them.

Recommendations for Photographers in NYC These photographers work with kids and understand what agencies require. At times they travel to other areas for the various shoots. Please confirm all pricing with the photographer because prices are subject to change.

1. Debra Somerville - www.imagesworkshop.com

Debra was the first photographer to take professional photos of Athena at five years old. We used those pictures for two years. Debra’s work landed Athena her first film, two fashion shows, editorial work and a gig with Gap as a fit model.

Debra is an absolute gem and has a studio in Westport, CT. The packages are ideal for kids which range between $350-$500. There is an additional fee if you want hair/makeup included or Debra’s styling suggestions. (Debra works closely with DWKing Talent Management Company, who can be found in the management company listing.)

2. Olesja Mueller – www.galleryrowstudio.com (based in LA but travels to NYC) Athena has never worked with Olesja Mueller, but I know a few other child models in the industry that have. Even though she’s a photographer, she has secured direct bookings for many children directly from their pictures. I plan to work with her in the future. Olesja Mueller doesn’t do mini sessions anymore, and her ideal packages are usually upwards of $500.

3. Elizabeth Pettey – www.elizabethpettey.com Athena finally had the pleasure to shoot with Elizabeth Pettey. I love every single photo taken.

Elizabeth is super friendly and captured Athena’s personality within three looks. Prices are very affordable, with packages starting at $300.

This

includes two looks, along with hair and makeup application. Any additional looks are $75 extra. Her studio is in New York City.

4. Daisy Beatty – www.daisybeattyphotography.com/ Athena hasn’t been photographed by Daisy Beatty as of yet. However, like Elizabeth Pettey (above), I like the work that she produces. Athena has a friend who shot with Daisy and loved the experience. Prices range between $350 and $550, depending on the package you choose. She is located in New York City and the Hamptons.

5. Zina Franklin – www.mystudiokid.com (based in Atlanta but frequently travels to NYC, LA, Miami, and Washington, DC) Athena hasn’t had the pleasure to shoot with Zina Franklin as of yet but I am looking forward to it in the near future. Zina’s prices range between $250 – $500, depending on the package you choose for your child’s needs.

6. Liz Linett: www.lizlinett.com (based in NYC and LA) Liz’s offers photography services as well as wardrobe styling, with packages ranging between $350-$500.

The price varies on how many looks are desired. Hair and make-up are included in the package.

Getting Your Child Signed Now that you have the photos you feel most confidently represents your child, it’s time to submit them! Whew, I know that this is a lot of information! I just want you to be equipped with all that is necessary to get started so that you can make informed decisions and the best choice for your child.

Agency + Management Company Submissions Here is a list of agencies and management companies that work with kids. You need to go to each website and find their submission process and send everything they require. Furthermore, I included an example of how you should send an email in the event that some agencies and managers ask for email submissions.

I separated each of them by category. Some agencies represent kids in multiple areas, so you may see them in several categories. Agencies and managers with an asterisk (*) means that Athena has worked with them. The * doesn’t discredit any of the other agencies; they all are GREAT!

NYC Modeling Agencies (for Print work): 1. New York Model Kids – www.newyorkmodels.com 2. Zuri Model & Talent – www.zurimodelandtalent.com 3. Generation Model Management – www.generationmm.com 4. Funny Face Today – www.fftmodels.com * 5. BMG – www.bmgmodels.com 6. City Models – www.citymodelny.com ( Very Good for Babies) * 7. Ohlsson Model & Talent – www.ohlssonagency.com 8. Teri B – www.teribtalent.com * 9. Stellar Model & Talent – www.stellar-nyc.com 10. CESD Talent Agency – www.cesdtalent.com

NYC Commercial Agencies (for Commercials and Voice-Over work): 1. Don Buchwald & Associates – www.buchwald.com 2. Abrams Artist Agency – www.abramsartists.com 3. Innovative Artists Agency – www.innovativeartists.com 4. CESD Talent Agency – www.cesdtalent.com 5. Jordan, Gill, & Dornbaum (JGD)– www.jgdtalent.com

6. Carson Kolker – (212) 221-1517 (only mail-in in submissions or by casting Director/Manager referral) 7. Take 3 Talent – www.take3talent.com * 8. Frontier Booking International – www.frontierbooking.com 9. Shirley Grant - www.shirleygrant.com

NYC Theatrical Agencies (for TV shows, Movies, and Broadway) 1. CESD – www.cesdtalent.com 2. Don Buchwald & Associates – www.buchwald.com 3. Abrams Artist Agency – www.abramsartists.com 4. Innovative Artists Agency – www.innovativeartists.com 5. Jordan, Gill, & Dornbaum (JGD) – www.jgdtalent.com 6. Paradigm Agency – www.paradigmagency.com 7. Carson-Adler Agency – www.carsonadler.com 8. Carson Kolker – (212) 221-1517 (only mail-in in submissions or by casting Director/Manager referral) 9. Take 3 Talent – www.take3talent.com *

NYC Management Companies (that work with various agencies to help find work for your child) 1. DWKing Talent Management – www.dwkingtalent.com * 2. CP Talent – www.cptalentmgmt.com 3. Shirley Grant – www.shirleygrant.com 4. Teri B Management – www.teribtalent.com * 5. Munchkin Stars – www.munchkinstars.com * 6. Lauren Singer Talent – www.laurensingertalent.com 7. CT Kids Talent Management – www.ctkidstalentmanagement.com 8. Nouveaux Talent - www.nouveauxny.com

Los Angeles Agencies and Managers: 1. Osbrink Agency – www.osbrinkagency.com 2. Zuri Model and Talent – www.zurimodelandtalent.com 3. Abram Artists Agency – www.abramsartists.com 4. LA Model/ LA Talent – www.lamodels.com 5. Paloma Model & Talent – www.palomamodelandtalent.com 6. Brand Model & Talent – www.brandtalent.net

Florida Agencies: 1. Karen Greer Model & Talent Agency – www.karengreermodels.com 2. The Green Agency – www.greenagency.com 3. Benz Model & Talent – www.benzmodels.com 4. Cathy & Company – www.candace-celmer.squarespace.com 5. Mega Models Miami – www.mpmegamiami.com

Atlanta Agencies: 1. JPervis – www.jpervistalent.com 2. The People Store – www.peoplestore.net 3. Houghton – www.houghtontalent.com 4. Atlanta Models and Talent – www.amtagency.com

North Carolina Agencies: 1. Directions USA Model & Talent – www.directionsusa.com 2. Brock Agency – www.thebrockagency.com 3. Evolution Talent Agency – www.evolutionmt.com

Chicago Agency: 1. Modelogic [Midwest] Chicago Modeling Agency – www.modelogicmidwest.com 2. BMG Models – www.bmgmodels.com 3. Ohlsson Model & Talent – www.ohlssonagency.com

Dallas, Tx Agency: 1. Kim Dawson Agency – www.kimdawsonagency.com

Ohio Agencies: 1. Docherty Model & Talent Agency – www.dochertyagency.com 2. Heyman Talent Artists Agency – www.heymantalent.com

How To Send An Email Submissions: Follow this template as a guideline when composing an email. Some agencies and managers rather an email instead of an online submission.

Subject: (Child’s Full Name) Model Submission

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing on the behalf of my son/daughter (insert full name). I am interested in pursuing modeling/acting (select your preference) for my child. I've attached four recent pictures (two headshots, 3/4 length, and full length) for your review and consideration. You will also find his/her measurements, clothing size, and my contact information listed below.

Height: (insert amount) Inches Weight: (insert amount) Pounds Clothing Size: Tops: (insert size) Bottoms: (insert size) Shoe size: (insert size) Ethnicity: (this is optional) Contact info: (insert best contact number, preferably a mobile one)

(Attach pictures here)

Thank you in advance for your attention to this email.

Sincerely, (insert parent or guardian’s full name)

PLEASE ALLOW 6- 8 WEEKS FOR A RESPONSE! Do not get discouraged. You will only hear a response if an agency or management company is interested in moving forward with your child. On the other hand, if you do not hear an answer in a timely manner then you should re-send another submission six months after your first submission, including new pics and measurements. NEVER CALL THE AGENCY OR MANAGEMENT COMPANY ASKING ABOUT YOUR CHILD'S SUBMISSION.

Prepping For An Agency Interview: If your child is asked to come into the agency or attend an open call day, prepare your child. Encourage your child to speak clearly and smile naturally during conversation (try role playing to prepare). The agency will want to see how your child interacts with them. They will also examine their personality.

Usually, conversations with agents are pretty short, as they see a number of potential talents during open call times. The agent may take some quick digital photos of your child, so dress your child in something cute, but simple.

Known Terms In The Industry: CONGRATULATIONS! Your child was just offered a modeling contract. Below are some terms you must become familiar with. You need to apply for a work permit once you finish signing the contract.

Without this permit, your child will not be allowed on set.

Audition: An opportunity to appear in front of the clients involved in the hiring process. They determine if your child is appropriate for the job.

Booked: Your child got the modeling or commercial job.

Booking out: When a model “books out” he or she specifies hours or days they are unavailable for assignments. When traveling it's highly recommended that you “book out” your child so your agent or manager won't send your child on any assignments.

Callback: A second audition or meeting with the client so they can see the child again before they make a final hiring decision.

Commercial Model: Commercial models can be any age, size, and height. Commercial models can do everything that isn't normally associated with high-fashion, such as product ads (housewares, food products, travel industry, tech devices).

Direct Booking: When your child is selected without having to be seen in person (less common, most convenient, and every parent's DREAM).

Fit Model: A model who is used by a fashion designer as a live mannequin.

Fitting: When the model tries on clothing to make sure they fit properly and can be altered before a booking such as a fashion show, commercial, or print shoot.

Go-See: A personal or mass interview or audition where numerous models attend to “go and see” the client so the client can see how the model looks in person.

Hold: Being “On Hold” means your child is being considered for the modeling job. It does not mean he or she has the job, but it does mean that the client has narrowed down the list of potential models and your child made the list.

Permit: Once your child is signed to an agency or management company it’s important to apply for your child’s work permit. You can apply at https://labor.ny.gov/formsdocs/wp/LS561.pdf

Voucher: An invoice that is signed by the model/parent and the client after the model completes a job.

The parent will email the voucher to the agency so that the client can be billed and the model can be paid.

Important Information You Should Consider: 1. Most castings and direct bookings are during school hours or during New York schools’ test-taking week. When your child is young, this might not be a big deal. As your child gets older, missing school can be more impactful, with some schools frowning upon the reason. If you constantly say no to your agent, your phone may not ring as frequently.

2. A child may be asked to enter the audition room alone. This is perfectly normal when conducting auditions and casting.

3. Be on time for every job and audition. It shows casting directors you’re taking this seriously.

4. During auditions and casting for babies, you should bring snacks or toys to keep them entertained For older kids bring along books or any electronic devices to occupy their time while waiting.

5. Make sure your child’s hair is washed and ready for styling when they book a job.

6. Often times, shoots require the model to bring their own wardrobe. Your child will need a variety of clean tops and bottoms, as well as shoes that are not too worn. Your agent will give you the specifics before the audition.

Do’s & Don'ts: 1. DO NOT BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY TO CASTING AND AUDITIONS. I can't stress this enough! If your child is auditioning then there should only be one parent or guardian present.

The same rule applies when your child books a job.

2. When attending casting /auditions refrain from logos on your child's clothes.

3. Every three months you will need to email fresh digital photos and sizes to your agent. If you have professional pictures than your child should have new photos every year. Ask your manager or agent before doing so.

Testimonials: Below are pictures of two child models I’ve assisted getting signed with an agency. As I stated before I can’t guarantee an agency or management company will choose your child. I’m merely just providing information.

Adonis on the Off Spring website, also known as Little Me clothing company.

Ariah at her Crayola booking. This photo was provided by her mother taken behind the scene at the job.

Photo Credit: Asia Cabello 9/6/2017

Questions & Answers : 1. “I know you said it is fine to send snapshots to an agency, but what exactly are they looking for in the pictures? Should they be close-ups, full body shots, or both? Should my child be laughing and playing or sitting quietly? Would a silly outfit help or hurt?”

A. A variety of snapshots is always a good idea because that way you give the agency a chance to see different aspects of your child. The outfit and the background are not important -- it is always about the child.

2. My child wears glasses. Can he or she still model?

A: Yes! However, in my opinion, if your child has a permanent need for corrective lenses then you should take that into consideration because casting directors prefer children without glasses.

3. Can my child wear braces?

A: It depends on the agency and the child’s look.

4. My child is 10 years old. Is it too late to start?

A: It all depends on your child's clothing size. Sample sizes are 12 mos, 3T, 6, 8 and 10. If your child wears those sizes then print work can still be available for your child. As an alternative commercial work is also an option if your child is interested.

5. What would make my child stand out from all the hundreds of other children's applications and snapshots? Is there a “special look” that photographers prefer, is it constantly changing or does the "look" stay the same?

A. Everyone asks me about that “special look” that sets one child apart from another. The simple truth is that the child themselves has the power to make them stand out above the rest. A professional can see right through the hairdos and accessories to the raw beauty of the child. Just make sure your child is well rested and well fed, with clean nails and hair. Your child will do the rest.

6. How should I prepare for going to an agency for the first time?

A. The first thing to do when preparing for your initial meeting at an agency is to explain to your child why they are going to the agency. Make sure they are well rested and well fed, wearing ageappropriate clothing. Relax and leave the rest to them.

7. My daughter has done some modeling, but after a while, the calls from the agency stopped.

How do I keep the agency interested in my daughter?

A. If it’s been some time since you’ve heard from the agency, simply call and ask them why you have not heard from them. Clothing sizes 12 mos, 3T, 6, 8, and 10 are sample sizes and when your child is not "in-size" they get fewer calls. Maybe his/her teeth haven't come in straight or you need new pictures. There are lots of possible reasons; call and find out.

8. Why aren’t all kids able to attend certain casting calls?

A: Here is how it all works: when a casting comes up, your agent submits all the kids on their roster that fit the role/breakdown. Casting directors then pre-select which kids they would like to call in for the audition. Every kid will NOT be called into every casting. Unfortunately, this is just how the business works.

9. How old should I start my child in modeling?

A: Many agencies begin at newborn, so it is never too early to begin your child's modeling career.

10. Do I need a car for this business?

A: Having a car isn't mandatory but it will make traveling a lot easier to certain castings and jobs.

My Contact Information: I am available to serve as a consultant, to assist parents with this process. I also provide parents with help in selecting photos to submit to agencies and wardrobe styling for upcoming photoshoots., for an additional fee. Please feel free to email me at Andrea.Lockhart1@gmail.com for further information.

I hope the information provided was super helpful and can jump-start your kid’s career. I wish you the best of luck and if you don’t get the results you are seeking right away, keep pushing. Nothing worth something comes easy!