If your teenager has a dream of becoming a successful model, it can feel both exciting and a bit intimidating to both of you. I mean, who wouldn’t want to be in Teen Vogue, right?
Being a professional model is a creative field that can help build confidence and open doors to fun opportunities and new experiences. But it also comes with challenges like competition and rejection – just like in any entertainment industry.
As a parent, you play an important role in helping your teen explore the world of fashion and modeling while staying safe and grounded.
Here’s a clear and simple guide to get you started.
Contents
How to prepare your child for teen modeling
1. Do Your Research
The first step is to know what your teen will expect when entering the modeling industry. In a nutshell, teen modeling is all about showcasing clothes, products, or ideas that appeal to other teens.
There are different types of modeling careers your teen might be interested in.
Fashion modeling is the glamorous type you see on runways or in high fashion photo shoots. This is where your teen will get the chance to work in the fashion industry.
Commercial modeling is more about everyday products, like clothing brands, school supplies, or skincare items.
There’s also print modeling, which involves appearing in magazines or catalogs. Lastly, social media modeling is a newer option, where brands and talent agents team up with young influencers and teenager models to reach people on social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok.
With this, it is a good idea to see which area in the modeling world your teen will be interested in.
2. Is your teen ready?
Talk to your teen about why they want to be a model. Is it because they love being in front of the camera? Are they ready for the effort it takes to be professional?
Also ask them what they expect entering the modelling industry and maybe tell them the ups and downs of being a fashion model.
Help them understand that modeling isn’t just about looking good. It requires confidence, patience, and the ability to handle feedback, especially when it’s not positive.
And if your teen is shy or feeling less confident, help them practice by taking photos at home, joining clubs, or trying public speaking.
3. Look for reputable agencies
Agencies are a great way to connect your teen with professional modeling jobs. Start by researching reputable agencies in your area that work with young models.
Check reviews and ask other parents for recommendations for a modeling agency if you want to start with a trustworthy agency and talent scout.
Be careful with agencies that demand large upfront payments or promise instant fame—they’re usually scams.
Start with local opportunities if your teen isn’t ready to work with an agency or a modeling agent. Look for community fashion runway shows, school events, or photo shoot organized by local photographers.
Social media can also be helpful. Creating a professional-looking Instagram profile with your teen’s modeling photos can attract attention from photographers and smaller brands – one of the best way to start their modelling career!
4. Create a strong modeling portfolio
To start, you will need to create a professional portfolio of your teen to send to reputable modeling agencies.
A modeling portfolio is like a resume, but instead of listing skills, it shows photos of your teen that highlight their personality and physical appearance. Agencies and clients will use it to decide if your teen is right for their projects.
To start, you’ll need a good photographer – you do not need to hire a professional photographer. The photos should include simple headshots that show your teen’s natural beauty and full-body shots to showcase their posture.
Most modeling agencies look for teen models of all shapes and sizes!
You can also slowly build your teen’s portfolio by joining your community or school fashion shows, local events, and more!
5. Balance school and modelling
Your teen’s education is still the most important thing. Modeling jobs can take time, so help your teen balance schoolwork, activities, and modeling commitments.
Teach them how to stay organized with calendars or a planner that tracks homework and modeling appointments.
If modeling starts to take up a lot of time, you might consider flexible schooling options. Online classes or homeschooling can make it easier for your teen to attend jobs while keeping up with their education and still welcoming new opportunities.
6. Keep health as a priority
In modeling, a healthy lifestyle matters. Help your teen achieve a balanced diet by having balanced meals with lots of fruits, vegetables, and proteins.
Encourage regular exercise like yoga, swimming, or even just walking, which can help them feel and look their best. Your teen must first have a positive attitude towards themselves!
Also, this is probably the best time to teach your teen about self-care and skincare. A simple skincare routine, drinking plenty of water, and getting enough sleep are all key to feeling good and looking great.
Feeling happy and healthy will shine through in their photos and on set.
7. Watch out for scams
The modeling industry can have its share of dishonest people. Be cautious with anyone who asks for large fees upfront or guarantees instant success.
Always research agencies and photographers before agreeing to anything. Always go with your teen to auditions, photoshoots, or meetings.
Make sure you carefully read contracts and agreements before signing anything.
8. Develop modeling skills
Help your teen practice posing in front of a mirror or camera. Encourage them to watch videos or look at magazines to see how professional models move and express emotions.
If your teen is interested in fashion modeling, practicing their runway walk can be a fun activity. There are plenty of tutorials online, or you can look for local modeling workshops to help them learn.
Just make them comfortable in front of a camera and in front of several people.
9. Build a social media presence
Social media has become a big part of the modeling industry. Many agencies and brands now use platforms like Instagram to find new talent.
By having a well-curated profile, your teen can showcase their style, personality, and photos, making it easier for them to be discovered.
Help your teen create an account that feels polished and professional. The photos should reflect their personality while staying appropriate and creative – this can give a great first impression!
A mix of posed shots, behind-the-scenes moments, and everyday lifestyle pictures also works well.
But remember to monitor your teen’s social media presence to ensure they stay safe. Teach them to avoid sharing personal information like their address or school and to only communicate with verified agencies or professionals.
10. Manage expectations
Modeling can be competitive, and rejection is a normal part of the process. Help your teen understand that it’s not personal and doesn’t mean they aren’t talented.
Sometimes, clients are just looking for a specific look or style. Success doesn’t happen overnight.
Celebrate small victories with your teen, like going out to eat after finishing their first photoshoot, or give them positive feedback.
But most importantly, let your teen know they can always talk to you. The modeling world is tough so be a safe and supportive person they can turn to when they feel overwhelmed or need advice.
How do modeling contracts work with teens?
A modeling contract is like a promise between the agency or client and your teen. It explains what the agency will do for your teen, like finding them jobs or helping them build their career.
It also explains what’s expected of your teen, like attending auditions or following rules in the industry.
Since teens are mostly under 18, parents must be involved. You’ll need to review and sign the contract too, so nothing happens without your approval.
What’s in the Contract?
The contract will include important details, like:
- The length of the agreement: How long your teen will work with the agency?
- Payment terms: How your teen will be paid for their jobs and how much the agency gets as a commission.
- Responsibilities: What the agency will do for your teen, like booking auditions, and what your teen needs to do.
- Exclusivity: Some contracts require your teen to only work with that agency, while others allow them to take jobs from different sources.
What to Watch Out For
- Upfront Fees: Be cautious if the agency asks for large payments before offering any work. Legitimate agencies usually take their commission after booking jobs.
- Lengthy Exclusivity: If the contract exclusively makes your teen to work only with one agency for a long time, it might limit their opportunities.
- Hidden Costs: Check for extra costs for things like photoshoots, training, or marketing materials. Some fees are normal, but they should be explained upfront.
I’m Anastasia and I’m a full-time blogger, online entrepreneur, and Pinterest marketing strategist. I help digital entrepreneurs and bloggers drive targeted traffic from Pinterest either through my online courses or through Pinterest consultancy.