OK I'm only posting so I can remember to find the thread! Not like the old days...
WARNING RE HOTELS
Just thought I'd add this as a couple of people had posted about hotel modelling events. If you see any agency advertising in a local paper for models it is almost definitely a scam. The real agencies get so many pictures sent to them that they wouldn't bother to set up an open audition.
PAYING IS NOT ALWAYS BAD
There is a popular misconception that "you shouldn't have to pay to get into modelling". This is sort of true. Any company (see hotels above) that gets you in and say, "pay here, get some photos, we'll get you work" needs to be approached with caution. The real agencies will usually ask you first to go to an assessment. this may cost nothing, but some reputable agencies eg Norrie Carr who my DD was with do charge to discourage timewasters. The sort of fee is £20 or thereabouts.
They will need professional photos to "market" your child. Usually they will offer to arrange this for you - the prices should be comparable to those you would pay elsewhere privately, if not less. Bruce & Brown (DD is with them now) charge just over £100 and gave me a CD of all the pictures so I could print them myself. If you are or you know a professional photographer, they may use those - you would have to speak to the agency. But the photos would have to match all their other kids, so it could be hard work and involve lots of trying to get it right - that's why they do bulk photoshoots, for uniformity.
If the agency produces a modelbook, they may charge for inclusion in this. You can opt out with most agencies, but it is a risk as the book is circulated annually to their clients, so your child could be missed unless the client only uses the website. Some agencies do not produce model books, but they will still charge a fee for promoting your child on their website.
Fees do vary widely between the agencies - I think the more expensive ones are around £150. You need to get a feel for which is right for your child, by talking to other mums, and by asking questions such as what type of clients your agent has. No reputable agent will promise that they will get your child work - they can't possibly know that!
OK, think that's covered a few of the basics, just thought I'd add it as there were a few new faces! There used to be a website with a lot of useful information in amongst the rubbish, but that's a long and distant story...! (stir!)