Pandemic Births: Mum and Child Photo Shoots
Mums, Chloe and Hannah spill the beans!
Two of our mums, Hannah and Chloe, are featured in this fantastic article in The Sun Newspaper about the problems they faced giving birth during the pandemic. Click here to read the article.
Hannah’s Quote
The model agency is amazing at helping models land magazine photo shoots! They really know the industry and work hard to connect you with top photographers and magazines. They treat you like family, making sure your unique look shines through. It’s such a great way to get noticed!
Chloe’s Quote
The acting agency is fantastic at finding great opportunities for Mum and Child Photo Shoots, TV and film!
See our Showreel
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You need to be registered with our London Child Casting Agency to be put forward for mum and child photo shoots like these…..
Finding Auditions for Mum and Child Photo Shoots
Finding auditions for mum and child photo shoots or commercials in the UK can be an exciting and rewarding experience.
These types of opportunities often call for unique family dynamics, allowing mothers and children to be involved in creative and engaging projects for brands, advertisements, and magazines. However, securing these auditions can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with the industry. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you find these auditions, step by step.
1. Understand the Industry Landscape
Before diving into the search for auditions, it’s essential to understand the nature of the UK modelling and commercial industry. Both photo shoots and commercials involve different processes:
- Photo Shoots typically involve still photography for magazines, advertising campaigns, or stock images. These shoots may include various family-oriented themes such as lifestyle, clothing, or family product advertising.
- Commercials involve short video advertisements broadcast on TV, online platforms, or social media. These commercials require actors to engage in dialogue, express emotions, or simply act as part of a narrative.
For mum and child photo shoots and auditions, these opportunities may come under both categories. The market for family-oriented products, including baby products, toys, clothing, and homeware, is large in the UK, and many companies actively look for real-life mothers and children to represent their brand.
2. Sign Up with Modelling Agencies
One of the most reliable ways to find auditions is to work with a reputable modelling agency that specializes in family or child talent.
Agencies have the connections and resources to get your profile in front of the right people. Look for agencies that feature categories for parents and children. These agencies often have divisions dedicated to family-oriented jobs, including photo shoots and commercials.
BMA Models – One of the UK’s leading child modelling agencies, BMA has an excellent reputation for discovering young talent and placing them in prestigious campaigns.
Kids London Agency – Specializing in Baby Modelling Photoshoots and child modelling, Kids London has strong connections with commercial clients, including brands in the fashion and lifestyle sectors.
Bruce and Brown – Known for its focus on children’s and Baby Modelling Photoshoots, they work with major UK clients across various industries.
KidsTalent.Agency – A family-run agency with a focus on baby and child modelling, they offer personalized attention and has secured many high-profile placements.
3. Use Online Casting Platforms
In addition to traditional agencies, many online platforms can help you find auditions for mum & child photo shoots and commercials. These platforms allow you to search for casting calls, apply directly, and sometimes even submit self-taped auditions for commercials. Many online casting sites offer a dedicated section for family and children’s casting.
Popular UK casting platforms include:
- StarNow: This is one of the leading casting platforms in the UK. It has a section specifically for family modelling, where you can find casting calls for mum & child photo shoots. You can create a profile, upload photos, and apply directly to casting calls.
- Casting Networks: This platform is used by many commercial casting directors, and you can find family-oriented casting calls here. It’s particularly useful for TV commercials, online ads, and even films.
- Mandy: Mandy offers casting calls for various acting and modelling jobs, including commercials and photo shoots. You can filter your search to find opportunities for mums and children.
Create an account, complete your profile, and regularly check for new casting calls that match your interests. Make sure your child’s age and appearance fit the project description. For these platforms, be cautious of scams, and ensure the casting call is legitimate.
4. Look Out for Casting Calls in Newspapers and Magazines
Traditional methods like casting calls in newspapers or magazines still play a role in the UK entertainment industry, especially for local or smaller-scale photo shoots. Keep an eye on publications like The Guardian, The Metro, and local lifestyle magazines, which may sometimes post mum and child photo shoots and casting calls for family-related work.
In addition, children’s magazines or parenting publications (such as Mumsnet, Mother & Baby Magazine, and Junior Magazine) often feature advertisements or announcements for casting calls. These could be related to specific family brands or baby product companies looking for real-life parents to take part in mum and child photo shoots.
5. Attend Open Castings and Auditions
Open auditions and castings are events where anyone can apply, and they provide a fantastic opportunity to meet casting directors in person. Keep an eye out for mum & child photo shoots announcements on social media platforms, agency websites, or by following industry-specific events.
Many casting directors will advertise open casting days for specific brands or commercials. These are often a great way to get your foot in the door, especially if you’re new to the industry and don’t yet have professional representation.
How to find these events:
- Follow Brands: Many brands use social media to announce casting calls. Follow brands that often feature families in their advertising, such as John Lewis, Mothercare, or Marks & Spencer.
- Attend Events: Check for local industry events, such as casting fairs or expos for family-focused brands. Networking at these events can also help you discover upcoming auditions.
6. Leverage Social Media and Networking
Social media can be a powerful tool for finding casting calls for mums and children. Join relevant Facebook groups, Instagram accounts, and Twitter feeds that share casting calls and modelling opportunities.
- Facebook Groups: There are many UK-based Facebook groups where casting calls for family-oriented projects and mum and child photo shoots are shared regularly. Examples include “UK Casting Calls” or “Child Models UK.” Always read the group’s rules before posting.
- Instagram: Follow casting agents, modelling agencies, and brands who frequently post about upcoming auditions. Use hashtags such as #mumandchildmodel, #familycasting, or #childmodelcasting to find casting calls relevant to you.
7. Understand the Requirements for Child Models
When looking for auditions, it’s important to understand the specific requirements for children in the industry. While some child models may be very young, others may be slightly older. Keep in mind the following tips:
- Age: Most casting calls will specify the age range for children (for example, 0-3 years old, 4-7 years old, etc.). Ensure your child fits the criteria.
- Experience: Some agencies may require previous modelling or acting experience, while others are open to newcomers. If you’re new to the industry, start with smaller or local auditions to gain experience.
- Parental Involvement: Many casting calls for mums and children require the mother to participate in the shoot alongside her child. Make sure you’re comfortable with this before applying.
8. Stay Prepared and Professional
Lastly, always maintain professionalism when applying for auditions. Prepare your child for the audition process, ensuring they’re comfortable with the environment and excited to participate. Professionalism includes:
- Punctuality: Always arrive on time for auditions.
- Follow Instructions: Read and follow the casting call instructions carefully.
- Stay Positive: Casting can be a competitive field, and rejection is part of the process. Stay motivated and keep applying.
Conclusion
Finding auditions for mum and child photo shoots and commercials in the UK requires persistence, patience, and the right approach. By registering with reputable agencies, using online casting platforms, keeping an eye out for open castings, and leveraging social media, you can significantly increase your chances of landing that perfect opportunity.
Always stay professional and prepared for every audition, and most importantly, have fun with the process. It’s a chance to showcase your family’s natural chemistry and to be part of exciting projects that could open many doors in the industry.