Child Models | Chicago Photographer

I get asked all the time about how to get your child into modeling. Chicago has millions of people, and the second and third largest cities in Illinois are Aurora and then Naperville, so Firefly Nights Photography is perfectly located to handle all of the Chicago area (especially the western suburbs). Child modeling isn’t something I really recommend, in general. There are a lot of scams, and there is a lot pressure. It can be great money, but you have to really balance the pros and cons.

Let’s be clear about something. Reputable modeling agencies will NOT charge you for anything. You don’t pay an agency for pictures. A good agency will have very specific requirements for submissions and will sign your child or not. They make money if your child is hired for a gig. You don’t pay them.  If you are scoffing and saying, “but I pay my child’s agency for ..”, then I would say you should question the quality and legitimacy of your agency.

 

Normally, especially for child models, pictures should be natural with barely any editing at all. Agencies, casting directors, etc want to know exactly what they will be getting. You need a good closeup or headshot, 3/4 body shot, and full body.

 

As a photographer who sometimes needs models, you and your child have to understand that the creative director (or whomever is calling the shots) has something in their mind, and if your child isn’t chosen, it isn’t because your child isn’t cute. It is simply that they aren’t fitting what we are already envisioning. We tend to look for what is in our head already.

 

Being cute or pretty or gorgeous actually isn’t always the biggest selling factor for signing with an agency. Having something that sets you apart can carry far more weight than traditional beauty. But having a winning smile will always be a win!

 

Are you now wondering what agencies to consider? Well, years ago Ford Modeling was the biggest name in Chicago, but they no longer represent children under 16. My oldest was signed to them at like age four back in the day…   Now adays, I would recommend Lily’s Talent, BMG, and Stewart Talent Agency. There are other reputable talent agencies in Chicago, of course, but these are the biggest names, I would say.

So what else makes your child a good model? The number one characteristic is EASY TO WORK WITH, meaning they follow directions, aren’t overly emotional or sensitive, are outgoing and social, etc.

If you’d like to build your child’s portfolio, we offer specific sessions just for that purpose. You can see more of our adult work included in some of our Commercial/Headshot Gallery or children in our Children Gallery.