If your teenage daughter or son comes home and announces they want to be a model, it might not be such a pie in the sky idea, take a few minutes to go through our teenage modelling tips and make a informed decision together with your teenager.
It is important to be realistic, chances are that most aspiring teen models won’t end up being the next Kate Moss, the latest greatest super model or reaching the modelling heights of celebrities like David Beckham. Having said that it can earn some extra pocket money and be a lot of fun, but expect to work hard and be professional.
Whilst some aspects of modelling is very competitive and difficult to break into, there are some good teen modelling opportunities if you know where to look and know how to keep your feed on the ground. Girl and boy teens are in demand to advertise the many products aimed at young people today from technology to fashion.
One of the very first things any aspiring model needs to consider is to take care of themselves with a healthy diet, regular exercise and not too many late night. Things like keeping skin clear for a teenager is not always easy, but remember the odd spot or two is all part of being a realistic teen model so don’t worry too much.
It’s a good idea to learn how to pose for a photographer, so practicing different poses and facial expressions is vital. Start in front of a mirror and then get someone at home to take photos as tests to see how you look, whilst this may seem silly at first, its essential to be professional and have photographs taken without being shy or lacking confidence.
Young fashion is a massive industry for high street shops, so its not surprising that catalogue and advertising for fashion is big business for teen models. It can help to have a healthy knowledge of what’s in and out and although not essential, keeping an eye on the latest styles can give you a heads up.
As a teen model between the ages of 13 and 17 years old, you will need permission from a parent or guardian. If any model agency says something different then stay away, a reputable model agency will expect support from parents in making decisions over modelling jobs and supervision whilst on photo shoots. You should never attend modelling jobs alone, unfortunately there will always be people who try to take advantage of inexperienced models.
Finally, its great to have a dream to become a teen model but no matter how much you may want to do modelling that doesn’t guarantee you’ll make it. So make sure you continue putting as much work into your education as possible, keep you feet on the ground and remember the important things in life.