Everything You Need to Know About Baby Modelling
Baby modelling is obviously a different kettle of fish to child or teen modelling. After all, it’s hard enough getting your little cherub to lie still long enough to change their nappy, so how on earth could you expect them to pose and smile for a camera?
As a parent, you may have considered enrolling your baby in a modelling agency. It is crucial to choose reputable modelling agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of your child. So when it comes to baby and toddler modelling, photographers are pretty understanding. They know that they’ll need to be patient so they can get the right shot, and they also know that sometimes, it just doesn’t work out the way it’s supposed to.
Baby modelling can be a fun and rewarding experience for kids. A talent agency plays a significant role in guiding and managing child models, helping them navigate the industry and find suitable opportunities.
Introduction to Baby Modelling
Baby modelling is a unique and exciting industry that offers a wonderful experience for parents and their little ones. As a parent, you may have considered enrolling your baby in a modelling agency, but you may not know where to start.
Baby modelling can be a fun and rewarding experience for kids, and it’s essential to understand the basics before diving in. In this section, we’ll introduce you to the world of baby modelling, covering topics such as what to expect, how to get started, and what makes a successful baby model.
What photographers like to see in a baby model
There are a few things both photographers and casting agents look out for in their baby models.
First, they’ll want a cute and photogenic baby, but we know that all babies are cute, right? So no real need to worry about that requirement.
What’s just as important though is the baby’s temperament.
Now, you might be wondering why that’s such a big deal but it really is super important. You see, if a baby has a bubbly personality and likes to smile or laughs a lot, then it’s going to be so much easier to get that perfect shot.
A positive baby’s temperament contributes significantly to a successful modeling session by ensuring the baby is comfortable and engaged with the camera.
This kind of personality also makes it easier for a baby to be separated from their parent in the studio. So when they have to sit on their own in front of the camera, they won’t start to cry looking for their mum or dad.
One of our gorgeous babies, Luna (that’s her in the image up top!) booked 3 jobs with the same client after being so great on set! We asked her mum for some advice, and she said:
“I think it’s really important to make sure your babies are comfortable with other people. What they tend to look for more than anything is a friendly happy baby that can relax in the environment they are being photographed in.”
Be prepared for photo requests
Babies change so quickly, and so you may find that the head shots you have no longer accurately represent your little one after only a matter of months or even weeks.
Casting directors are well aware of this and so if they are interested in your child’s look, they will often request that you take a photo of your baby on the day you are contacted. They might even ask you to film a quick ‘self tape’ that shows your baby crawling or playing with a toy.
Requests like this are perfectly normal and it doesn’t mean that there’s anything wrong with your baby’s portfolio shots. They just want to see if your baby has changed much since they were taken. The challenges and realities faced by child and baby models and their parents include emotional and ethical dilemmas, concerns about the environment, competition among mothers, and the impact on the child’s self-identity and personal development.
In fact, one of the main reasons baby models still get their professional headshots taken is just to prove that they can. A great portfolio shot means that there’s a good chance your baby has the right temperament for being in front of the camera and remember what we said earlier about happy babies? Casting directors and photographers LOVE them.
Be prepared meet your baby’s doppelganger
Once you and your baby have secured a job, you may be surprised to turn up to the shoot to find a bunch of babies that all look just like yours. Okay maybe not a whole bunch but perhaps one or two.
The reason for this is because everyone knows that babies are unpredictable. They might be the happiest little angel in the world, but come the day of the shoot they could be teething or have a rash that’s bugging them.
This is why it’s always a good idea to have a couple of back-up babies at the shoot.
Your baby might spend the day in front of the camera or they could just as easily sit on your lap until they are needed. In some cases you may not even have to take any photos at all. We know that this can be super frustrating as your baby won’t appear in that magazine spread or in that ad campaign. But you will be paid for your time on set and it is still good experience for both parent and child.
Remember, this is your baby’s job
Isn’t it strange to think that your child has a job before they can talk, or that they have a Tax File Number before they can walk?
Whilst baby modelling is great fun and a good way to save some money for your baby, there are strict laws in place to make sure that a child’s welfare always comes first.
Children under 3 years old can work a maximum of 4 hours a day, 3 days a week by law. And if you think about it, 4 hours a day is long enough for any baby to spend on set.
Any earnings they make have to go into a bank account in their name, as technically they are the ones employed by the client.
The minimum amount of payment you are looking at for a baby model is around $85 an hour – although it can be much more. Now that may sound like a nice hourly rate, but you child can only work so many hours.
This is not a career you want to jump into just to make some quick cash. It’s something you want to do for fun and perhaps to give your baby the opportunity to get into child modelling as they grow older.
Choosing a Reputable Modelling Agency
Choosing a reputable modelling agency is crucial for your baby’s success and safety in the industry. With so many agencies out there, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to trust. Look for agencies that have a good reputation, a strong portfolio, and a clear understanding of the industry.
A reputable agency will prioritize your baby’s well-being and safety, ensuring that they have a positive and enjoyable experience. When researching agencies, ask questions about their main clients, fees, and commissions. Be wary of agencies that charge expensive fees for creating portfolios or promise unrealistic success.
Prioritizing Your Baby’s Well-being and Safety
As a parent, your baby’s well-being and safety should always be your top priority. When it comes to baby modelling, it’s essential to ensure that your child is comfortable and happy in front of the camera.
A reputable agency will prioritize your baby’s needs, providing a safe and supportive environment for them to thrive. Look for agencies that have strict safety guidelines in place, such as ensuring that your baby is not overworked or exposed to harsh lighting or loud noises.
Additionally, make sure that your baby’s routine is not disrupted by modelling commitments, and that they have regular breaks and time to rest.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Baby modelling can come with its challenges, from dealing with tantrums and meltdowns to managing your baby’s temperament and mood. However, with the right approach and support, these challenges can be overcome. Here are some common challenges and solutions to help you navigate the world of baby modelling:
Tantrums and meltdowns:
Be prepared for your baby to have off days, and have a plan in place for when they do. Bring their favourite toy or blanket to the shoot, and take regular breaks to keep them calm and happy.
Managing your baby’s temperament:
Understand that every baby is different, and some may be more suited to modelling than others. Look for agencies that specialize in working with babies and toddlers, and prioritize your baby’s comfort and happiness above all else.
Dealing with rejection:
Not every job will be a good fit for your baby, and that’s okay. Don’t take rejection personally, and remember that it’s all part of the process. Keep a positive attitude, and focus on finding jobs that are a good match for your baby’s skills and personality.
By understanding the basics of baby modelling, choosing a reputable agency, prioritizing your baby’s well-being and safety, and being prepared for common challenges, you can help your baby thrive in this exciting industry.
So now that you have a better idea about what’s involved with baby modelling, do you think your child has what it takes to shine in front of the camera?
We know your baby is cute, but does he or she have that bubbly personality that photographers love?
If the answer is yes, then we’d love to hear from you.
Go ahead and fill out our application form and we’ll get right back to you as soon as we can.
If you liked this post you might also like:
