Teen modelling

[alexacalling911]

Not sure if this is the right topic really but DS was approached by a modelling agency a couple of days ago ( along with probably 1000 others at Reading festival) and they have invited us to their offices to discuss things and to ask questions if we have any.
Not taking it very seriously but thought we’d go and meet them, if only to see their offices and have a fun day out! Big reputable London agency.
Both a bit clueless- what should we be asking them, checking etc etc. He’s only 16.

Probably should check in advance what it's going to cost you. Do they want paying to represent him? Are you going to have to get a professional portfolio sorted?

That’s exactly the thing I need to ask them- thanks!

I was you a couple of years ago. Scouts hang out at music festivals. I was also very hesitant. First agency agency said no after meeting him properly. But is was fun afternoon in London. Then he kept being scouted and is now with someone who have sent him to castings but no job so far. He also said no when he had exams etc. Everything seems to happen quite last minute between are close to London and I can be a bit flexible with work.
Everyone my DS has dealt with have been straightforward and upfront. DS thinks it’s fun and wants to make money for uni. He has met a couple of people doing the same an engineering student, among others. He says it is not like the Devil Wears Prada.
If reputable ie known name then they won‘t ask you to pay anything. They take a cut from earnings.
As he is under 18, you or another adult will have to chaperone him. My main fear was that DS would start to dream of millions/stardom but he hasn’t so it is all lighthearted and has involved a few fun free trips. Only issue has been a couple of jealous comments at college as DS couldn‘t care less about fashion and v much not looks orientated

Yes, this. If they really think he has a good earning career in front of him they will invest in his portfolio, a but of training and at least transport costs for the first few meetings.

DN was scouted, they did all this then put her up in a flat in London with a few other girls (17-20) and a sort of chaperone checking in on them. Came to nothing but she had a blast for 6 months.

If they really are legit then great. If they're not then they'll ask you for money. If that happens walk away.

Otherwise he should go for it. Nice way to earn a few extra quid. Though obviously he can't be pulled out of school for castings or shoots so that might be an issue. And obviously there's a lot of rejection and patience required if you're a model.

My DD (12) has been scouted three times in the last year. She’s 5’8” already with legs up to her armpits and a unique look. My friend used to be an agent at one of the big names and I asked if she would let her daughter do it. She said absolutely not until her daughter was 16-18 years old.

You have to be available last minute for castings and most of the time nothing comes from it. If you are close to London and have flexibility in your schedule, can take rejection and look at it as a bit of fun then go for it.

Depends on the agency. There is a really good Facebook group which lists all the legit agencies. I would take a look on there but in the mean time, definitely do not pay out for a portfolio shoot.
www.facebook.com/share/g/16wXccKH7H/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Thanks all- very useful. DS very chilled about it all so won’t care what happens either way. Is very tall and knows a few other tall boys (who are all rowers) who work now and again. We’ll go and see the agency and treat it as a bit of fun. One ‘scout’ has already emailed me and another has called me so at least they are not doing it all via him!

You shouldn’t need to pay anything to be signed. In the early days the agency should have arrangements with photographers to do shoots in exchange for a free model for social media content.
Most work is in London and at short notice so it can be difficult if you aren’t London based.