What Mums Need to Know Before Starting Their Kid in Modeling

How to Start Kids Modeling (Without Getting Scammed)

What every parent should know before booking a “free” photoshoot

Thinking about getting your child into modeling?

Amazing. It can be creative, empowering, and even lead to exciting opportunities for your little one — especially in the kids' fashion world.

But before you jump in, there's something you really need to know.

Because I’ve seen too many families burned by offers that look amazing on the surface… and then come with a $2,500 invoice no one saw coming.

This is your no-fluff guide to starting kids modeling safely — and spotting the red flags before you say yes to anything.

The truth about the “free photoshoot” trap

A friend of mine recently booked what she thought was a free kids modeling shoot.

It sounded like a dream: beautiful photos, professional styling, a gentle intro to the industry — no upfront cost.

Then came the bill.

$2,500.
No warning. No price list beforehand. No way to walk away without feeling completely taken advantage of.

Unfortunately, she’s not the only one.

This happens way too often to families just starting out in kids fashion modeling — especially when they’re excited and unfamiliar with how the industry works.

Why this happens (and why it’s so common)

Here’s the typical setup:

• A “free” photoshoot is offered, with promises of exposure or portfolio building

• The shoot happens — it’s fun, fast, and low-pressure

• Then comes the emotional sales pitch: packages, limited-time offers, upsells

• The final price? Often well into the thousands

The worst part? Most parents feel pressured to buy, even if they had no idea what they were agreeing to.

Red flags to watch for

If you’re exploring modeling for your child, look out for these warning signs:

🚩 No clear pricing upfront
🚩 Vague package details or "custom quotes"
🚩 Pressure to buy photos immediately after the session
🚩 Phrases like “your child has potential” used as sales bait
🚩 No contract or agreement outlining exactly what’s included

If you’re curious what a transparent experience should look like, [here’s how I do it ]

5 Questions Every Parent Should Ask Before Saying Yes

Before you book any kids photoshoot — especially for modeling — ask:

1. Is this really free, or are there required purchases afterward?

2. Can I see a full price list before the shoot?

3. Are digital files included, or sold separately per image?

4. Is there a minimum spend, or can I choose what I want?

5. What happens if I don’t want to purchase anything?

If the person you're talking to can’t (or won’t) give clear answers, that’s your sign to walk away.

So… is kids modeling safe?

Yes — it absolutely can be.
There are brilliant, honest people in this industry. Photographers, agencies, and creatives who genuinely love working with kids and know how to do it ethically.

The key is this: transparency matters.

Ask questions. Trust your gut. Don’t be afraid to say “no” if something doesn’t feel right.

Because your child’s first experience in front of the camera should feel fun, safe, and empowering — not like a high-pressure sales pitch disguised as a dream opportunity.

Final thoughts

If you're starting out in kids modeling, you deserve to do it on your own terms — with all the information up front.

Don’t be afraid to ask the uncomfortable questions.
Don’t get swept up in “limited offers.”
And never feel pressured into paying for something you didn’t agree to.

You’ve got this. And your child? They’ve got you.
Which means they’re in the best possible hands.

See what a relaxed, fun photoshoot really looks like

Worried your child is too wild or won’t listen during a shoot? Don’t stress — I’m a pro at embracing the chaos. Read this post on how to prep for a shoot with wild kids