The Keys to Child Modeling Success -Tammy Stanton -Talent Manager

The biggest mistake made is over parenting. The #1 reason I've seen potentially great child models fail is that the parents simply get in the way. Everything from trying to control the shoots to over directing to quibbling about wardrobe. Agencies will still take your money but never recommend your child if they think you will be too overbearing or difficult.

• Allow your children to be professional. You don't direct the doctor to do their job and respect the photographer in the same way.

• Parents can be present but not seen. Unless the photographer, director or wardrobe team specifically requests your help (if your child is too difficult to direct) you should be waiting outside so that the child can learn to be directed without distraction. A parents presence changes the entire dynamic of the photoshoot. Parent's present at the beginning for comfort level is recommended but after 10-20 minutes they should be out of the shoot area so that the child learns to be directly exclusively by a photographer and team. Make sure the child knows this ahead of time.

• Diversity. Parents try to force children into a favorite genre of their own but children even more than adults should experience every genre of fashion and modeling. They may find a an unexpected niche.

• Keep the same protocols as adults with wardrobe. Be professional and don't wear unsightly bras and undergarments that create lines. For sportswear never have undergarments especially unless it is specifically requested or being modeled.

• Emotion - Child models are required to show a lot more emotion. They should be trained to be extremely expressive! Every facial expression imaginable.

• Children can and do model undergarments for commercial purposes obviously. This is not sexualized images and it's perfectly fine. If you aren't comfortable with this please let the agency/photographer know in advance so they can contract with other alternative models.

• Don't be overly concerned with wardrobe. As long as a shoot is not specifically sexualizing children there should be no issue with showing a normal amount of skin just as adults do. Swimwear and undergarments are common and some of the biggest money makers for child models and their parents.

• Focus on fun! Make sure you convey the attitude that they should work hard but always enjoy the process!