Expert: Kitty Kavey - 7/31/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi Kitty, do you think it's a good idea to do some stock photography? I have seen some ads and though this might be a way to build a portfolio. I have seen some local ads. My daughter is 13 and we are looking at fashion commercial print since she's only 5.1 in height. We are getting her info together to submit to the local agencies but though this might be an option in the meantime. Thank you!


ANSWER: If you like the quality of the work of the photographer(s), and you have a release form you're comfortable with, stock photography can be lots of fun to model for.

There is always a possibility that the photos or a photo will be purchased and used by a company you (or in this case your daughter) does not want to be affiliated with - so that's definitely something to ask the photographer about before you shoot, should you have any concerns like that.

Also, your daughter probably doesn't need a portfolio.  She may be asked for a modeling composite card by commercial print agencies, although some fashion agencies with a kid's division and some commercial print agencies just require a couple snapshots for agency consideration - so you may want to verify what exactly your daughter needs for your local agencies as well.

Good  luck to you both,
~Kitty

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: We have a composite card and headshot but after meeting with some agents in LA to follow up on call backs for TV and Commercials, they all said she looked much older in the pictures and now I am a bit hesitant to send those out.

Answer
The composite card shouldn't matter - as that may be how she photographs, or can photograph - so for modeling, that would be fine.  To be able to show a range of looks is more important than the image matching the person who walks in (age wise).

As for the headshot, that would be a problem.  If an actor doesn't match their headshot, then casting has no way of knowing that until they come in for the audition.  So if the headshot looks too mature to match the actor, then you need to either hire a (better) professional headshot photographer, or take a headshot photo that does match your daughter's look.

The agencies you are meeting with cannot refer you legally to a specific photographer, but they can keep a list of recommended photographers, show you headshots in your daughter's age group that they think are particularly good, or may have a bulletin board or other area where photographers can leave their information.

And still, be extra cautious working outside of a licensed model/talent agency.  Stock photography images can potentially end up in locations that might not be where you would want them.  Make sure you have a good contract with a reputable photographer, and you have some idea of where/how the photos might be used, and for how long.

Good luck to you two,
~Kitty