Is Child Modeling Legal?

Limited child modeling realistic?

• Was thinking about getting my kids into child modeling on a limited basis. Both of us parents work full-time and will not quit our jobs, so modeling jobs would have to be on weekends. We do live within driving distance of Miami so we can easily go there. Is this realistic? Should we even bother if we can't bring them to "go-sees" or shoots during the week? My kids enjoy having their pictures taken and I thought I'd just expose them to the opportunity. I never had the confidence to try modeling as a kid, even when people suggested it. Not sure that I would encourage them as teens due to the body image issues that come with modeling at that age, but it might be fun for them to try now.

• Answer:

  First of all, modeling is a business. It's not just taking fun pictures. You don't say how old your kids are, but if you worry that teens might develop body image issues, you should be aware that younger kids won't be immune to that either. Modeling is based on how a child looks. They don't necessarily have to be beautiful but they need to fit a certain image (along with required height, weight, etc) that the client wants. I guess you don't see a lot of magazines and ad campaigns with children in them? See the article below to give yourself something to think about: http://gothamist.com/2011/08/12/10-year-old_model.php It's not just in France. Modeling jobs are based on the schedules of many other people besides the model. The model has to be available to work when required. They need to be able to make go-sees that are scheduled days, weeks, or months in advance of the planned assignment. Furthermore, you can't just walk into a "go-see". You have to have a referral from a legitimate modeling agency. Modeling agencies won't take on children whose parents are wishy-washy about making sure they child shows up for a photo shoot or go-see. Thousands of dollars are usually at stake if a child misses an appointment. Real agents only make money when their clients do. Make sure you know the differences between a modeling agency and a modeling school. Agencies don't charge upfront. Schools can and do charge fees for classes, pictures, whatever they want desperate naive parents to pay. Most modeling jobs are also located in larger cities and you would definitely have to consider moving either the whole family there, or splitting the family up so you can go where the jobs are. Good grief! Make sure you educate yourself before you drag your kids into something like this. As parents you will have to be heavily involved since minors can't even sign contracts and laws may require a parent or legal guardian to be present on set. Below is an article I found just by googling. Don't let the glitter get in your eyes! Acting and modeling are fine for some kids---and not for others. http://parenting.kaboose.com/behavior/emotional-social-development/should-my-child-be-a-model.html