Be sure to take the photos in color, not black and white. Some agencies will only accept online submissions, so it is best to use a digital camera or your camera phone. That way, you can have both digital and print versions of your pictures.
You can also try a few pictures of your baby sitting on a bench or chair, depending on their age.
Be sure that the pictures show your baby’s true size. This means don’t crowd your baby with lots of blanket or cover them up. Agencies like when babies can sit up on their own without help. [3] X Expert Source Traci HalvorsonModeling Agent Expert Interview. 17 June 2021.
Be sure to avoid pictures in which your baby is covered in food or sprinkles. As cute as those pictures may seem, the agency wants to see your baby’s full, clean face. [4] X Research source If possible, try taking some photos of your baby looking happy, engaged, and exuberant. [5] X Research source
Remember, there are many cute babies, so this picture is your chance to show what sets your baby apart. Getting a great character shot can take time and lots of takes, but it will be worth it when you capture the picture that will catch the agent’s eye. Here are some ideas for this type of photo—try to photograph your baby as they are: laughing, smiling, pondering, embracing the camera, or making an expression of deep thought or wonderment. Having a happy baby is really important. An agency will always book a back-up baby in case the original baby starts crying. [7] X Expert Source Traci HalvorsonModeling Agent Expert Interview. 17 June 2021.
Choose at least one photo from each of the categories mentioned above: a full-length photo, a photo of your baby’s face, and a photo that shows your baby’s personality. You want to show that your baby is good-natured and can handle being around others, so avoid photos that show your baby hysterically screaming or crying. Have at least one photo where your baby looks happy, lively, or joyful. Ask others to choose between a few versions of the same shot to see which they think is best. Don’t submit a photo that is blurry or too dark to see details.
You may also want to do an internet search of the company’s name, followed by words like “scam” or “rip off. ” Agencies prefer babies that don’t cry and demand to be with their parents right away. [10] X Expert Source Traci HalvorsonModeling Agent Expert Interview. 17 June 2021.
The agency asks for money up front. If a company asks you for a fee before they will serve as your baby’s agent, they are very likely trying to scam you. Legitimate agencies will not charge you up front. The agency guarantees you work or talks about making your baby famous. Baby modeling is a very competitive and small industry, so it is impossible for the agency to guarantee that your baby will have consistent, if any, work. The agency says you must use a specific photographer. The agency tells you that you need to “hurry up” or “commit now. ” The agency only accepts cash or a money order. Just like scams on Craigslist, when someone requires only cash or a money order, it is often a warning sign.
The agency may specify what size they would like your pictures to be. If they don’t, print your pictures at either 4"x6", 5"x7", or 8"x10". Make sure not to exceed 8"x10". [12] X Research source
If you are sending the submission in the mail, you should be able to find the address on the agency’s website. If you are sending the submission via email, paste the introduction letter into the body of the email. Then, attach the images to the email. If you are using an online submission feature, be sure the images are no larger than 2MB. There will likely be submission form fields for you to fill out with information about you and your baby.
