Baby model: why not yours?

« The fact that a professional told me that my daughter could take pictures reassured me… I told myself that I was not the only one to find her pretty! Like Céline, the mother of Margot, 11 months old, many parents one day want to see their baby in the spotlight. But becoming a little model is not just fun! Like any job, this one brings great satisfaction, but also disappointments … like ” the day when we no longer want Margot for photos. She could be confused, lose confidence in herself ».

Also to be taken into account, the conditions under which a photo shoot or film shoot takes place. Baby often has to be patient between two doses. And too bad if it’s time for a nap or a bottle! However, because their well-being comes first, modeling for children is subject to strict rules.

How to find a child modeling agency?

You will need to find an agency with a license and prefectural approval. It has been compulsory since 1992 for minors. Send photos of your child (one portrait and one full-length) with your contact details, and a stamped envelope for the response (or return of the photos). Include some information such as height, weight, age and availability. If his face matches what the agency is looking for, you will be received to test your motivation and that of your child. You will then sign an exclusivity contract that you can terminate at any time. You will be asked for a medical certificate for your child, your authorization and that of the father (in order to avoid any problem in the event of separation or divorce) as well as your family record book. Watch out for scams. Refuse to pay registration fees, they are normally non-existent. And also avoid the agencies which ask you for a “book” to evaluate the “photogenic” of the child. Simple, good-quality color photos are sufficient. Finally, also pay attention to the schedules. Some agencies abuse despite the regulations!

How does a casting go with your baby?

You will sometimes be notified late for the castings. These usually take place on weekdays, during the day and often last well over an hour, as the wait can be long. Then plan a few books or games to occupy baby. As well as a bottle and a diaper, just in case.

Why take pictures of your baby?

Photos taken by professionals, clothes and decorations a little exceptional, poses that you would never manage to make him take and of course the immense pride to see him and to show it to everyone. Do not think that agencies only select blondes with blue eyes. If they have a pretty face, are wise and gracious, all babies have a chance. If he likes it and it’s not too restrictive for you, you will definitely benefit from it.

Baby model: what salary?

The minimum remuneration of the young employee corresponds to the minimum wage reduced by 20% for children under 17 years of age. Any photo shoot is billed for at least 2 hours and any hour started is due. Apart from the minimums, the salary is negotiated with the agency. The money is deposited at the Caisse des Dépôts et Consignation. 90% of the remuneration is kept in an account in the name of the child. He will only be able to enjoy it on his 18th birthday! The remaining 10% is paid to parents to compensate, among other things, for ancillary costs such as transport.

What if Baby doesn’t want to model?

As with any activity, the child may not like it, the baby will show signs of refusal. In this case, there is no point in continuing to run the castings. Your child doesn’t dream of fame and fame, so don’t push it! In the same way, he may very well have fun at a few photoshoots, then get bored little by little or even block a certain photographer a little too demanding or another a little too slow. In this case, don’t hang in there, now is not the time to teach him perseverance. You can first select the teams with which you get along best (you and your child) or even give up completely when you see that they are no longer happy to do so.

Baby model: how to react if it doesn’t work?

Your pride takes a hit, that’s for sure, but beyond that, he can experience it as a failure or worse as a rejection. Before you start, explain the issue of the castings to them. Many children often find only one place, no fundamental quality is required, it is often a question of timing, an alchemy that is done or not done. This does not call into question its qualities. Likewise, the fashion criteria are quite rigorous, your child can get out for no apparent reason and he will not be caught again. You have to explain to him that he is not in question but that it is simply not his profile that we were looking for… until next time.

Baby model: what does the law say?

The agencies are under close surveillance concerning the employment of children, which is highly regulated. A license is issued to them for 3 years by the Ministry of Labor.