Okay so we have several posts containing tips and best practices, but we had to dedicate at least one post to what NOT to do.
- Do not force your child into modeling just because YOU want it. We can always tell the models that are only there because their parent wants them to. This is never any fun for anyone involved.
- Do not be annoying. Okay that’s a little broad but please don’t tag companies in every photo of your child or contact them obsessively. There’s a thin line between getting your child noticed and being plain out annoying. Your child will sell herself so there’s no need to constantly contact a company.
- Do not bring an entourage on set. We know that grandma is excited about your child’s big modeling opportunity, but it is best to arrive with only one parent on set if possible. Oftentimes there is a limited amount of space on set and it is sometimes distracting to the kids to have a group of people watching. We know that there are times when this is unavoidable but if at all possible, limit it to one parent and the model on set unless otherwise directed.
- Do not show up super late or super early. Yes, we all know that being late is a bad thing, but many people don’t realize that showing up on set super early can be just as bad. Most times photographers cherish that little time they have before the shoot to get things prepared. Having to stop and mingle with parents/kids can delay productivity and cause delays during the shoot. If you want to arrive early to make sure you don’t show up late, just stay in the car or hang out until the call time. We typically recommend showing up no sooner than 15 minutes before the shoot and no later than 15 minutes after the shoot’s call time.
- Do not interrupt the photographer on set or direct during a shoot unless asked specifically. A photographer may be going for a certain look or trying to direct your child in a certain way. This may go against what they’ve been taught (ie. you may not love your child’s smile with missing teeth and direct them not to show teeth when smiling, but it may be exactly what the photographer is looking for). Parents should mainly be there for support, if asked. Otherwise, let the photographer do their thing.
- Be aware of photographer’s guidelines and rules for posting/submissions. When working with a photographer, make sure you understand the rules and restrictions for photo usage. Never submit photos to publications, websites, etc. without the photographer’s permission. Do not modify the photographer’s photos by adding filters or graphics without permission. Also, ask the photographer before posting any behind the scenes photos from a shoot.
- Pay attention to the details. We’ve had several occasions where models show up with chipped nail polish, bright nail polish, fake tattoos, stickers, etc. that make the editing process more difficult during post processing. We know that kids will be kids, but pay attention to the details the day before the shoot to make the process go much smoother.
- Read submission guidelines. We always get a kick out of casting call submissions because there’s always a handful who clearly didn’t read submission guidelines. Make sure you fully read guidelines before submitting to any casting calls. We’ve often had boys submitted when we were looking for girls. Or 3 year olds submitted when we were looking for 10 year olds. Be aware of what the photographer is looking for before submitting to a casting.
Whew, we hope that this will give some valuable insight as to what not to do to annoy your local photographer. #justsaying 🙂
