Oska's Model Alert do not require child models but we get asked a lot for advice. So I have added this section for parents who want information about this work.
Children are one of natures beautiful gifts, however, when it comes to modeling no matter how much of a beauty, or how full of character, EVERY child model must be well behaved and have good manners. If you have a child who becomes either a shrinking violet, sulky or throws a tantrum and burst into tears when spoken to then forget it!
Child models must be easy to direct and at ease with strangers, such as the photographer or a client. Although it is many parents dream to see their child in a magazine or on an advertisement poster, it is also very hard work for the parent. You must be a good timekeeper, reliable and prompt. You will need your own transport, your own telephone line or mobile phone and be able to be flexible with your time. You will need a pleasant personality and remember that no one likes a pushy or bolshy parent. If you have commitments that will prevent you from undertaking assignments with your child at short notice then you have to be realistic and get your child another hobby.
We say that because it is better to think of this as a hobby and assume that child modeling will not pay huge sums of money. You should also be aware that the modeling fees earned by your child must be paid into a bank/savings account in the name of the child. Chaperone fees are paid in the name of the parent.
Education and modeling can go hand in hand. The child licensing system was put in place to ensure that education, health and welfare do not suffer. Any child or teenager under the legal school leaving age and in full time education must obtain permission by way of a license from the local authority for them to work in the modeling or entertainment industry. Thankfully child labour is restricted in this country and there are rules governing child modeling acting and dancing for theatres. Ask at your local council and they will be able to give you the up to date details, as there are stringent rules about children missing out on education, as well as the number of hours that they can legally work. All good agents will also explain this legal requirement to you.
Getting Your Child An Agent
Avoid money up front companies selling portfolios.
Agents like you to live within the area in which they are situated.
Agents don't like a call from gushing mothers telling them how lovely their child is and how they get stopped in Tesco, the street at school etc. and told they should be a model. How many mothers think their child couldn't be a model? Agents are businesses and all they want to do is get a form filled and see some images to assess the child from their unbiased point of view.
If you call an agent just listen to their advice.
Very Important
We do not recommend any agency in South Wales for children at present.
Here are some numbers and addresses of agents you can try. Oska's does not accept any liability for recommending an agent.
Modelling work is usually last minute so if you are in the South West or Wales areas you may need a London address or PO box just to get your child registered with some of the agents below. Registereing may require you travel to meet the agent and so they can interview your child.
When your child succeeds and the agent calls you, you will need to be prepared to travel to London for the audition/job the next day or even immediately.
Most travel fees are small and will only cover small distances within the location of your agency. Clients will not pay extra for models outside that area. This is why most London based agents don't accept applications for children outside their own area.
Child Agencies
With No UP FRONT FEE'S
South West England
Mustard Models
The Media Centre, 1 Riverside, St. Annes Road, Bristol. BS4 4ED
01179 030327
agency@bigmustard.co.uk
Models Plus Agency
307 Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth. BH8 8AS
01202 393193
info@mpagency.co.uk
Midlands
RMG Modelling & Promotions Agency
Meriden Hall, Main Road, Meriden, Coventry. CV7 7PT
01676 525170
info@rmg-models.com
Number One Model Management
Studio 408F, The Big Peg, 120 Vyse Street, Hockley, Birmingham. B18 6NF
0121-233-2433
info@one.globalnet.co.uk
Nemesis
95 Spencer Street, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham. B18 6DA
0121 554 7878
ros@nmsmanagement.co.uk
London South East
MOT Model Agency
The Stables, Ashlyns Hall, Chesham Road, Berkhampstead, Herts. HP4 2ST
01442 863918
email nikki@motmodel.com
Elliot Brown
15 Hutchcomb Road, Botley, Oxford. OX2 9HN
01865 451154
enquires@elliottbrownagency.co.uk
Fresh Agents
Basement Studio, Albert House, 82 Queens Rd. Brighton. BN1 3XE
01273 711777
lauren@freshagents.com
Reynolds Group
2nd Floor, Westgate House, Spital Street, Dartford, Kent. DA1 2EH
01322 277200
info@reynoldsgroup.co.uk
Bruce & Brown
203 Canalot Studios, 222 Kensal Rd, London W10 5BN
020 8968 5585
info@bruceandbrown.com
North England
Euro Kids & Adults Modelling & Casting Agency
Warehouse Studio, Glaziers Lane, Culcheth, Warrington WA24AQ
0870 757 2002
info@eka-agency.com
DK Model Management
Estate Office, Thorncliffe Pk Estate, Sheffield. S35 2PH
0114-257-3480
mail@dkmodels.net
Catwalk
Top Floor, 67 St Pauls Street, LEEDS, LS1 2TE
0113-245-9664
kate@catwalk-uk.com
AM Model Agency
11 St Mary’s Place, Newcastle upon Tyne. NE1 7PG
0191-233 1420
www.ammodels.co.uk
Susan@ammodels.co.uk
Break A Legg model & Casting Agency
198 Northfeild Road, Crookes, Sheffield S10 1QU
0114-266 6727
(I called them during office hours during the week and got an answer phone message!)