Expert: Taylor Sheppard - 12/15/2010

Question
i have a 12 month old baby boy. He is the apple of my eye. I would love to get him in front of the camera because he has the energy of a energy bunny. I think that he would be perfect for such an opportunity. I would love if you give me a call at  or . Thank you ver much for your time

Answer
Hi Venus,

Sounds like you have big plans for your son!

I would like to ask you one favor: LISTEN to him. If he gets into this and he doesn't want to do it, don't make him do it. I realize he is young, but they don't stay that way long. He may want to please you by doing it, but if you can sense that his heart isn't there,....let him be a kid instead. Many former child actors will tell you it was fun for a while, but they grew to hate doing it. You need to love it for it to work!

That being said, here's what you do FOR A BABY OR SMALL CHILD -not a tween or young adult-THAT is different! That requires headshots. Luckily, babies don't have to have them. Look up talent agencies in the nearest big city and send them a short note that you would like your child to be considered for representation. -Don't go on and on about how special you think he is...that is your opinion as his mom. Not saying he isn't, but let them see for themselves. Enclose a snapshot (a very clear, well lit one of him, not dark or fuzzy, nothing fancy, just him.) Then wait! If no reply, don't call, don't write, just move on to another agency from the phone book.
(By the way, NEVER give anyone money to "represent" him. That is a scam. Agents don't take money until he works.

Please understand that a child playing around in a living room or hamming for the camera doesn't mean he he or she is a future star. When they shoot commercials they usually hire more than one baby or toddler for the job. When they get on set, they watch to see which one freaks out and cries and can't be used. Amazingly, the little star can get a case of fright and shyness when taken out of their home to a strange place and are surrounded with strangers and lights and equipment. Also, the opposite can happen -they get to where they can't be still much less do what they are needed to do because they are over-stimulated!

Best of luck to you and your son,

Happy Holidays!

Taylor