Tips for a Successful Infant Casting or Photo Shoot

Tips for a Successful Infant Casting or Photo ShootTips for a Successful Infant Casting or Photo ShootBaby modeling can be a lot of fun, and it can be quite lucrative. If youre like most parents, you love hanging out with their child all day and who doesnt like constantly being told how adorable their offspring is? But, baby modeling is also a tricky business. For starters, schedules are tight- babies are only allowed to work for a couple of hours a day- and even the cutest babies are unpredictable. They dont always nap when theyre supposed to (according to the director) and they can suddenly get cranky. And, of course, they also cry a lot. Some shoots supply a baby wrangler, whose sole job it is to help relax overwhelmed babies, as well as their parents. These trained professionals dangle toys, sing songs, and make funny faces- whatever it takes to keep the child or toddler calm, happy, and entertained. However, a lot of time youll be on your own. Meaning, its up to you to think of new and clever ways to distract your child, stave off the stranger-danger, and keep the shoot rolling on time and on budget. If youre out of ideas or want to be asprepared as possible for an upcoming infant casting call or modeling shoot, dont panic. Here are some tried and true tips for both you and your model wannabe. Ask Questions This is not the time to be shy.Dont be afraid to call the casting company or agency and ask what to expect before, during, and after the shoot. They can fill you in on what typically happens and offer helpful suggestions that will calm your nerves and give your child the best possible chance of success. Change the Environment Castings and photo shoots can be hectic and crowded, so try taking a quick timeout to help reset both you and your babys mood. Take your baby somewhere quiet for a few minutes- like a bathroom or a break room- for a snuggle, some soothing words, or your babys favorite song. Leave Home Extra Early As youve probably noti ced, a stressed-out parent often results in a stressed-out child. So, do everything possible to show up on time and avoid a last-minute panic. Pack the night before, try your best to nap/feed/burp your child before you arrive, and leave time for unexpected diaper changes, spit-up incidents, and meltdowns. Of course, all of this is easier said than done, but it never hurts to be super prepared. Bring an Extra Set of Hands If youre stressed about handling the day and all of the uncertainties that go along with it- like the traffic, the parking, and the endless diaper/onesie changes- then bring along a spouse, a family member, a friend, or even a neighbor that your baby knows. A helping hand is always useful, especially if its your first time attending a casting or shoot. Dont Be Afraid to Be a Parent While its ideal if your baby doesnt mind being held by strangers, some newborns simply havent had enough time to get used to being held by people they dont know. They just really need their moms or dads, and thats okay. Its not unheard of to photograph a baby sitting on a parents belly or being held in their hands (with the parent cropped out, of course). A loving touch can be just what the baby needs to pull off a great photo. Bring Something Familiar Every baby has something that they absolutely love. Maybe its a well-used baby carrier, a special toy, or a random object that, for some strange reason, holds their attention- like a broken calculator or an empty mint container you found in the bottom of your purse. Whatever it is, bring it with you. Babies love a sense of familiarity and this one item could be the difference between an on-set meltdown and a picture-perfect photo shoot.