Catalog modeling counts among the most flourishing sectors of the entire modeling industry. Catalog models, also known as commercial models, always stay in high demand as companies and brands constantly seek young and new faces to promote their clothing products and related accessories. If your kid is extroverted, photogenic, and loves taking his/her photos, catalog modeling is probably the best path for him/her.
Personally, I will always avoid that my kid goes into the modeling business. But, my personal opinion is not the theme of this article.
So, how to become a kid model?
There are several ways to get into catalog modeling. Your child can either work with the modeling agencies or participate in contests hosted by reputed clothing lines. Generally, you will have to send a few good photographs of your kid for participation. Whichever way you may pick, patience and persistence are essential for your kid’s modeling career’s ultimate success.
Glimpse through the following steps to make your child a catalog model:
Create a Portfolio
A portfolio serves as an excellent way to showcase your kid’s attributes that align with catalog modeling requirements. It is advised to get your kid’s photographs in at least five distinct looks, displaying several outfits and toys in various poses. These can include close-ups, formal wear, swimwear, and casual wear. Thereafter, you can buy a big portfolio book with clear-view flaps to put your kid’s photographs.
Search for Modelling Agencies
Explore a few agencies that work with child catalog models. The best way to find a modeling agency is through the advertising departments of clothing stores or magazines. Most of these departments hire models from agencies to save time on the screening process. In other words, the modeling agencies are considered reliable enough to identify the talent that will suit clothing lines’ requirements. Some clothing brands rely completely on one agency, which further affirms the agency’s credibility and potential to provide good job opportunities.
Alternatively, you may consider letting your child work with two or more agencies. At the same time, ensure that these agencies direct your kid specifically towards catalog modeling.
Send Photographs
Once you have shortlisted a few modeling agencies, you need to send your kid’s photographs to them. These should ideally include one headshot and one full-body portrait photograph of your kid. You must also attach a resume that describes your child’s modeling experience and similar tasks that he/she may have done. If your kid doesn’t have any experience, you can list his/her hobbies, talents, or training classes that he/she has attended. At the top of the resume, important details like your kid’s height, weight, age, clothing sizes, hair/eye color, and contact details need to be given.
You can check the agencies’ website to see what kind of photographs they prefer for more specific information. Also, you have to submit the photographs and resume by mail or email, as their established system.
Attend Go-sees
Go-sees provide a wonderful way to get your child’s talent recognized. Always be professional and punctual in attending the casting calls and auditions for your kid. Additionally, dress your kid most favorably. For instance, if you are going for a go-see of a clothing brand, dress your kid in the company’s latest outfit. Generally, the agents will set up suitable go-sees for your kid.
Participate in Modelling Contests
Look out for the popular modeling competitions and contests sponsored by the reputed clothing lines. For example, The Gap organizes a casting call for kids across the nation every year. In this contest, the grand prize is won by the child who gets the maximum number of online votes. Further, the winner is offered a professional photoshoot, which finally makes way for a chance to be featured in clothing stores and advertisements nationwide. Similarly, The Children’s Place frequently runs several modeling contests.
Note: Be careful of the agents who demand an upfront fee.