Top Kids’ Modeling Agencies in Los Angeles

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Whether you and your child are new to kids’ modeling, or you’re looking to upgrade their representation, knowing your options is the first step to signing with one of the top children’s modeling agencies. From what makes an agency good to how to submit, here’s everything you need to know about kids’ modeling agencies in L.A.

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What makes a good children’s modeling agency?

Kid models

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As we discuss elsewhere, the best children’s modeling agencies in L.A. and throughout the nation boast these fine qualities:

  • A solid reputation: A good children’s modeling agency will have many success stories under its belt. After making sure the agency is franchised by SAG-AFTRA (note that while this applies more to child actors, most agencies represent models and actors alike) and licensed by the state of California, look it up on accreditation organizations such as the Better Business Bureau and review aggregate sites such as Trustpilot and Yelp. Review the agency’s professional and social media pages, and ask any connections in the industry to get an idea of its experience and reputation. 
  • Ethical practices and communication: Look for an agency that operates ethically and will keep your child’s best interests at heart. If it seems the agency doesn’t prioritize children’s health, emotional well-being, and education, give it a pass. The agency should never ask that your child drastically change their appearance, and it should have clearly posted guidelines abiding by state child labor and modeling-specific laws. It should also provide regular updates on talent progress and any important industry news. 
  • Industry connections: Top agencies will be able to get your child’s foot in the door through connections with a variety of commercial, fashion, and editorial clients, photographers, and other industry professionals. These invaluable connections will help connect child models to job opportunities. 
  • No payment upfront: If a child modeling agency asks you to pay them for professional photos or training courses, it’s a scam. Reputable agencies will never ask you to pay upfront. They should be able to explain any financial transactions and contracts to you in a clear, easy-to-understand manner. 
  • Individual support: Whether a boutique agency representing only a handful of child models or a huge agency with a long roster of talent, look for a small talent-to-agent ratio. Individualized attention from an agent means access to the time and resources necessary for child models to build their burgeoning careers. 
  • Helps develop talent: A good agency will invest in their talent by connecting them with classes, training, workshops, and other opportunities for growth.

Top children’s modeling agencies in L.A.

Kid model agencies

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LA Model Management

LA Model Management is a thriving modeling agency focused on Southern California. It has additional headquarters in New York and sister agencies that focus on management for influencers (Slash Management) and actors (LA Talent). It is one of the largest and most well-known agencies on the west coast and has been going strong since the ’80s. The agency is known for embracing models with looks that depart from the traditional model image. Its junior modeling department offers representation for girls, boys, and even families. LA Model Management works with some top companies, including Zara, Gap, and FabKids. 

LA Model Management has a separate submission process for kids. All submissions should be emailed to juniors@lamodels.com and should include the child model’s date of birth, height, location, contact information, and several clear, simple pictures

Zuri Agency

Zuri has divisions dedicated to theater, commercial, and print. The agency also recently created a new adaptive and inclusive division to provide differently-abled talent with representation. Its print division, one of the most renowned in the U.S., has launched careers for many aspiring models. Zuri’s junior talent has appeared with companies including Zara, Gap, and Tommy Hilfiger.

Zuri has an online submission form that asks for standard information about the child, including date of birth, height, location, and contact info; size, category, and division; and several current, natural pictures.

Brand Models

Patty Brand, a successful model herself, put her expertise to work when launching Brand Models. The agency provides management across the board for fashion and print for adults, teens, and children. It also has a casting facility in Santa Ana that companies can rent for casting. 

Brand Models has an online submission form that asks for standard information such as date of birth, height, eye and hair color; detailed body measurements; a link to the child’s online profile; and four photos—two headshots, one body shot showing from head to about the knees, and one full-length body shot from behind.

Paloma Model and Talent

Paloma is a sister-owned agency that offers support for kids of all backgrounds, abilities, and orientations. The agency is known for offering welcoming and comprehensive service, as well as for its community efforts to improve the modeling industry. Paloma’s models regularly work with top brands such as Hoka, Nike, Disney, and Target. Its talent has even gone on to be cast in major motion pictures such as Wes Anderson’s “Asteroid City.”

Paloma has an online submission form that asks for the child’s age range; up to 10 outdoor photos taken within a week of submission; measurements and coloring; special skills; social media accounts; and any managers and agents.

Osbrink Agency

Based in Burbank, CA, the Osbrink Agency has been providing support for a broad range of interests, including voiceover and acting since 1993. It offers divisions for fashion, advertising, and editorial modeling. The youth commercial and print division’s interdisciplinary team focuses on providing guidance and support to models hoping to move into TV and film. The agency has represented former child talent including Brie Larson, Raven-Symoné, and Dakota and Elle Fanning.

Osbrink’s online submission form asks that you select a division and enter the child’s name, age, location, two images, and résumé.  

Daniel Hoff Agency

With over 30 years of experience and offices in L.A., New York, and Atlanta, the Daniel Hoff Agency works with big-name clients including Gucci, Coca-Cola, and Target. For parents who are keen to work with agencies that give back to the community, founder Daniel Hoff is also on the board for the non-profit dog rescue MaeDay Rescue.

The Daniel Hoff Agency asks that you submit a headshot and résumé to LAsubmissions@danielhoffagency.com.

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