Q&A for How to Become a Child Model

Take pictures of your child and make sure they like the camera on them. You can't really assume that your child will like modeling if they don't like the camera in their face. If your child takes to the camera very well and doesn't seem shy, submit to a kids' talent or modeling agency to see what they think.

Take pictures of your child that really showcase their personality. Try not to take any photos where your child is looking away from the camera, or when they're hanging out with other kids. Then, submit those photos to a modeling agency—just keep in mind that each agency might have a limit to how many photos you can send.

You can try again, but don't try to get approval from the same agency that rejected you. Try different agencies.

It's okay for models to have some imperfections. As long as your overall look is healthy and natural, you have a chance at getting work.

It doesn't matter! Everyone gets acne at some point. If your child is embarrassed by it, then he or she can try face masks, cleanser, and rinsing his/her face every night. Many studios also have trained makeup artists who will be able to conceal your child's acne before a photoshoot as well.

You can start at any age as long as it is with your guardian's approval.

It depends on your situation. If you have to move or miss a lot of school, you might need to be tutored or homeschooled. You will not completely stop your schooling though.

Start dropping hints. Maybe dress better or look at models on your laptop a lot and watch a lot of modeling shows. After a while of this, go up to one of your parents and say "I'd like to do what they're doing. Can I try it sometime?"

Ask your mom to talk to your dad and explain why being a child model will be beneficial to you.

You have to at least broach the subject. You won't know for sure until you explain how serious you are about it and ask for their permission/support. If they don't think it's a good idea, back off for a while before bringing it up again. They have your best interests in mind -- trust that.

Yes, this is possible. She will learn poise, good posture, confident walking techniques and how to work her face, body and moods. All of this can increase her confidence, including improving her ability to communicate with others, which will go toward building self-esteem. However, there are downsides that can undermine self-esteem too, such as weight management pressures, criticism of appearance and insistence on falling into line with marketing expectations. Be sure to seek a balanced life for her and explain to her that models are treated like commodities in a business but that she is still a real person who matters a great deal.

Makeup artists should be able to cover any visible scars.

It doesn't matter! One of the most famous models has a large gap between her front teeth. If the agency likes you, they won't care about your overbite!

Not really, usually an agency is like a middle man between you and the brands. The agency is hired by the brand to find models so they don't have to do it themselves. You interview with the agencies and they try to place you with brands that are looking for your particular qualities.

Models can be any height, especially for print or TV advertising. It is probably easier to find work as a female model if you are at least 5'8', but it depends on the type of modeling.

Explain that modelling is not just prancing around looking pretty; it's about building confidence and self-esteem. You can also explain how you think modeling will help you grow as a person and be happy.

Mix lemon juice and baking soda and apply it to your teeth for 10 minutes 3 times a week or use daily whitening strips.

It depends. You are asked to do photoshoots. The farthest away your child will probably have to go is about a 2-3 hour drive.

You may have some input, but you may not. The client hires you to wear the particular clothes that they want advertised. That's what they're paying you for.

You could explain to them that being a model is not fooling around and being pretty, but is also building your body confidence and it can also make you accept your body the way it is.

Some clients may be looking for a skinny kid with good tooth. However, other clients may prefer a child who's missing a tooth or weighs a little more. It all depends on the project. That's why most agencies look for models who look like the kid next door.

No, children of all ages can model.

Yes. In fact, some clients may be looking specifically for children with braces for a certain project. Your braces may help you stand out from all the other children.

If you're a child model, it's unlikely that you will have to show your legs. Bruises will heal. You can also cover them with makeup or Photoshop.

Try explaining the benefits of child modeling, and maybe then she will let you. Or try talking to your dad.

Yes! Models nowadays are very diverse. There are many African/black models out there.

Modeling agencies look for a diverse base of models. They look for all different types of people. Don't tell yourself you're not pretty. If you feel pretty, you can radiate beauty! If they don't like the appearance of a scar or moles they can use makeup to conceal them.

There is no weight requirement for being a child model.

You can wear anything. Most models are tall. This is considered ideal for most clothes.

If it is a clothing company, then probably not. However, you can ask them what you need to bring before you arrive.