If you’re interested in getting your child started in modeling, one of the first questions is usually:
What do I send to a modeling agency?
The process doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, agencies generally want to see what your child naturally looks like before they need an elaborate modeling portfolio.
Here are three things to focus on when preparing an agency submission.
1. Research Dallas Child Modeling Agencies
Start by identifying established agencies that currently represent children and reviewing the submission instructions on each agency’s website.
Requirements can vary from one agency to another and can change over time. One agency may request several specific photographs, while another may use an online submission form with its own requirements.
Always follow the individual agency’s current instructions first.
If you’re not sure where to begin, I’ve put together a separate guide to Child Modeling Agencies in Dallas, including established Dallas–Fort Worth agencies and tips for parents considering representation.
2. Send the Right Kind of Photos
Parents sometimes assume they need to invest in a complete professional modeling portfolio before approaching an agency.
Usually, that’s not necessary.
For an initial submission, agencies often want straightforward photographs that allow them to clearly see what your child currently looks like.
If the agency provides specific photo requirements, follow those. Otherwise, these are useful photographs to have:
A Simple Headshot
Take a clear photograph showing your child’s face with a natural, relaxed expression.
Keep hair, makeup, accessories, and styling simple. The goal isn’t to create an elaborate fashion photograph. It’s to give the agency a clear representation of your child’s current appearance.
A Full-Length Photograph
Include a straightforward full-length photograph that clearly shows your child’s proportions.
Choose simple, properly fitting clothing that doesn’t hide their shape. Avoid oversized clothing, elaborate styling, costumes, or distracting accessories unless the agency specifically requests something different.
A Natural Smile
It’s also useful to include a photograph showing your child’s natural smile and personality.
Rather than asking for a forced smile, talk to them, make them laugh, or give them something natural to react to.
Tips for Taking Modeling Submission Photos at Home
You don’t necessarily need a professional photographer for an initial agency submission.
If you’re taking the photographs yourself:
- Use simple, natural light when possible.
- Choose a clean, uncluttered background.
- Photograph at your child’s eye level rather than looking down at them.
- Keep clothing and styling simple.
- Avoid filters and heavy editing.
- Make sure the photographs are recent and actually look like your child.
- Follow the agency’s requested crop, orientation, and file specifications.
You aren’t trying to create an advertising campaign. You’re giving an agent clear information so they can decide whether your child might be appropriate for their roster.
3. Provide Accurate Information
Along with photographs, agencies may request basic information about your child.
Depending on the agency, that could include:
- Child’s name
- Date of birth or age
- Height
- Clothing size
- Shoe size
- Hair color
- Eye color
- Parent or guardian’s name
- Parent or guardian’s email address and phone number
- Location
Provide exactly what the agency requests and make sure measurements are current.
Children grow quickly, so don’t rely on measurements taken months earlier.
Does Your Child Need Professional Modeling Photos?
Not necessarily.
This is an important distinction I would make much clearer than I did when I originally wrote this article.
If you’re simply submitting your child to an agency for the first time, start by following that agency’s submission requirements. If they ask for simple snapshots or digitals, that’s what you should provide.
Professional photography can become useful when your child needs updated images, is beginning to build a portfolio, or an agency specifically recommends additional photographs.
A children’s model session should still look age-appropriate and natural. The goal isn’t to make a child look older or overly styled.
What Happens After You Submit?
After submitting, give the agency time to review the information.
Not receiving a response doesn’t necessarily mean there’s something wrong with your child or the photographs. Agencies build rosters based on many factors, including the types of models their clients currently request and who they already represent.
If an agency isn’t interested, you can research other reputable agencies or consider submitting again in the future with current photographs if the agency permits resubmissions.
Avoid repeatedly contacting an agency that has clearly stated its submission or follow-up policy.
Be Careful of Modeling Scams
Parents should also be cautious about anyone who guarantees representation or promises modeling jobs in exchange for large upfront payments.
A legitimate agency’s current website should explain how submissions work. Research the company carefully before providing money or personal information.
I’ve included more information about this in my Dallas Child Modeling Agencies guide.
Child Model Photography in Dallas
I’ve photographed children and models in Dallas for many years, including children preparing for the modeling industry.
If professional photographs are appropriate for where your child is in the process, my Kids Model Launch session is designed to create natural, age-appropriate images while making the experience comfortable and enjoyable for the child.
But if you’re just beginning, start with the agency.
Check its current submission requirements first, take the simple photographs it requests, and see where the process leads.
From the archives: When I originally wrote this article, several Dallas agencies produced printed “Head Books” featuring the children they represented. Agency submission and marketing processes have changed considerably since then, which is why parents should always check an agency’s current requirements before submitting.
