Being a model and appearing on posters and magazines’ covers is a dream come true for many kids. It’s not a fantasy, in fact, it is easier to achieve and more fun than you might think! Despite the rumors, kids modeling is a truly rewarding experience, but before you get your little ones started, it's important to understand that this is an investment in your child’s future, and although filled with many benefits, it doesn’t come without a few drawbacks. Here’s a little of what you can expect to help you make your choice.
Modeling provides an outlet for kids to have fun, be silly, and get creative! Learning to express yourself is a vital part of upbringing that takes some kids longer to learn than others. According to Ursula Bensimon, founder of Bensimon Models and Talent, “Kids learn through castings to start talking for themselves. They interact with people that might intimidate them early on and overcome this fear. This happens with shy kids, and it’s amazing to see how they gain confidence and build their own voice overtime.
When your child gets picked by casting agents it's truly exciting! They learn the value of hard work and that results can happen when they stick with something they want. When they get to see themselves featured in their favorite store’s ads, on a TV screen, or in a magazine, they get a real sense of personal pride in their accomplishments. Even more, you get to watch their dreams come true!
If your child gets picked at a casting, they begin to build their resume. As they apply to colleges and other jobs one day, they will already have impressive work and life experience under their belt. Beyond this, the earnings they receive on the job can go towards their future. In fact, a portion of their earnings are saved in a special savings called a Coogan account that you set up for them to access when they turn 18. This is a great way for you to start now to help your child build their own college fund!
When you attend kids’ castings, you get seen! This is a great opportunity to meet new people in the industry, whether that is casting directors, producers, or other kids. Every time you show up, your child’s unique look is going to get noticed, if not for this part maybe the next one. And who knows, kids might just make lifelong friends from their on-set experiences.
Starting on the path of modeling requires commitment. Most auditions and jobs are in Los Angeles, and you must be willing to drive there any time your child is called to appear. If you are up for it, this can be a great opportunity to have an adventure with your kids! On the other hand, if you have a busy schedule and castings and photo shoots are difficult to prioritize, then it might not be as easy.
Modeling often has a reputation of being high-pressure. But, according to Bensimon, with kids “It's like any other sport. You put your kids in something competitive, like soccer, and they can feel rejection. But when you work hard and get better, you grow.” Keep in mind, your child is picked for castings because they are beautiful and talented! If your child was not chosen for the job it just means that it was not currently a match for what they are looking for. Luckily, every time you show up, it is another chance to get noticed for when your child is the perfect fit!
Occasionally, kids might need to skip classes for castings and photo shoots. However, to ensure that their education is not disrupted, there are on-set tutors at every shoot. This way, kids can bring their homework to shoots and have a teacher there to help them one-on-one, just like tutoring!
As models, kids are brought on to an agency and chosen for jobs with a specific look in mind. This means they can’t show up to set with bright painted nails, heavy makeup, or the latest hair fad. However, this rule encourages your child to embrace their natural look and be confident in their own skin!
So, to summarize, while the modeling industry is not for everyone, it is a powerful and rewarding experience for many families looking to invest in their child’s future and is filled with many exciting moments for kids pursuing their dreams. The cherry on top? Moms, dads, and grandparents will all have gorgeous pictures of their little one on hand at all times!
Bensimon Models and Talent is a top kids modeling agency based in Southern California. Founded by fashion photographer Ursula Bensimon, the boutique, avant garde agency seeks to capture the beauty in kids of diverse looks and backgrounds, and has transformed youth modeling on the west coast. The agency has led to bookings in many of the biggest global brands including Abercrombie & Fitch, Nordstrom, Target, Zara, GAP kids, Disney, Dolce & Gabbana, and many more. To find out more, visit https://www.bensimonmodels.com/
