How to Start Modeling at 12 | Synonym (2024)

Many in the modeling world believe that there is no age too early to begin modeling, and in fact, that the earlier the age the better. This way the child gains experience and cultivates habits and technique from a young age.

Explore this article

  • Have photographs taken
  • Attend open casting calls
  • Contact modeling agencies via mail
  • To learn about casting calls and auditions

1 Have photographs taken

Have photographs taken. Use a professional photographer to capture both full body images and head shots. Opt for simple clothing without patterns, such as jeans and a plain black t-shirt. Have the name, age, and physical features of the model noted on the bottom or back of the sheet. Include measurements, eye and hair color, as well as the full name. Feel free to also note contact information and relevant experience on the back, similar to a resume. Have a digital copy of the image too so you can apply online.

2 Attend open casting calls

Attend open casting calls and talent searches in your area. Bring a parent, recent head shots and a pen. Come well groomed and dressed in business casual attire. Be prepared to meet and converse with agency representatives. Have images and contact information ready to leave with those you meet.

3 Contact modeling agencies via mail

Contact modeling agencies via mail. Be professional in tone, and always write a cover letter. Include recent head shots. Research the requirements of each agency to obtain the proper mailing address and to learn of any additional requirements.

4 To learn about casting calls and auditions

Audition for commercials and other relevant experience to learn about casting calls and auditions. Take notes and listen carefully to any advice and constructive criticism. Attend acting and modeling classes, and engage in activities that involve an audience, such as drama club.

About the Author

W. Nicole Barclay has been writing and editing professionally since 2004, focusing on the fashion and retail industry. She graduated from Parsons the New School for Design and holds a Bachelor of Science in history, international affairs and archeology from Northeastern University. She has completed master's degree work in public policy and nonprofit administration at Northeastern University and The American University in Cairo.

How to Start Modeling at 12 | Synonym (2024)

FAQs

How to start modeling as a 12 year old? ›

Go to casting calls: Open casting calls get your child seen by agents. Even if it's not a match, your child can learn how to interact with agents and pose for photos. Submit to model searches: Child model searches usually seek a specific look and type. If your child meets those parameters, they may just get signed.

Can you be 12 to be a model? ›

There is no particular age at which a child should begin modeling. However, some agencies accept child models as young as three months up to 18 years old. It's essential to consider the child's interest in modeling, regardless of age or experience.

How can I begin to model? ›

To become a model, you will need to research the type of modeling you'd like to do, understand the strengths and beauty of your own body, practice posing in front of the camera, take photos to put together a model portfolio, and send applications and go to casting calls.

Can I be a model at 5'2"? ›

How tall is tall enough? Crazily enough, there are restrictions within petite modeling. Unsurprisingly you can be too tall, but you can also be too short to fit into the standard that is expected. Women must ideally sit between 5'1 – 5'7 and men should be above 5'4 and under 5'9.

How to look like a model? ›

Looking like a model includes maintaining a healthy body weight, keeping your skin, hair, nails, and teeth looking perfect, and choosing fashionable clothes and shoes every day. It's also important to develop a signature style, walk, and presence if you want to look like a model.

How do I make my kid a model? ›

How to get started in baby modeling
  1. Take photos. ...
  2. Submit to casting databases. ...
  3. Sign with an agency. ...
  4. Build a portfolio. ...
  5. Stay updated. ...
  6. Be wary of scams. ...
  7. Be patient. ...
  8. Maintain your child's health and well-being.
Sep 19, 2023

How much can a 12 year old model make? ›

As of May 11, 2024, the average hourly pay for a Child Modeling in the United States is $16.74 an hour.

Do child models have to be tall? ›

Unlike adult modelling, child models do not have to be a specific height, nor do they need specific measurements.

How to model for Nike? ›

Go to those modeling agency pages, read their requirements for submission and submit your photos via their website. You can also attend agency open calls to meet with them in person if that agency represents fitness models and find out what fitness brands they work with, such as Nike, prior to signing a contract.

How to try modeling? ›

These are some common steps you can follow while deciding how to become a model:
  1. Decide what kind of model you want to be. ...
  2. Start practicing at home. ...
  3. Train and exercise. ...
  4. Build your portfolio. ...
  5. Look for an agent. ...
  6. Take relevant classes. ...
  7. Look for opportunities to be noticed. ...
  8. Use social media.
Mar 13, 2024

Do beginner models get paid? ›

Beginners and more experienced models alike can receive $125–$175 per hour, with a two-hour minimum for all jobs. In smaller markets, commercial models can earn anywhere from $25–$75 per hour. Plus-size and catalogs models will generally be paid the same hourly, half-day, and full-day booking rates.

Is 5.2 short for a girl? ›

NO! We are short women, but not short people, so we pass, without any flack from anyone.

Is 5 7 ok for a model? ›

Runway models should be at least 5'8” as a female and 6'0” as a male. For editorial modeling, having the right look is more important than height or slender frame alone. For convention/promotional models, it's more about having an engaging personality and the ability to act as a product spokesperson.

Who is the shortest model? ›

Shortest professional model (female) 📸✨ Wildine Aumoithe (USA) - 72 cm (28.3 in)

Do child models get paid? ›

And if you're wondering, child models do earn money for their skills and time. Money can be a topic which parents and guardians can explain and discuss to help aid their children's understanding about the world of work, where it is stored, how it should be taken care of and then used wisely.

What is the youngest age to start modeling? ›

Fashion models have very particular age, height, and measurement standards. The typical age is 16-21. Models can be younger than this, but many agencies will require models to be at least 16. Likewise, models can be older but agencies and clients tend to like their models looking younger and more youthful.

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