Frequently Asked Questions

Will my child/children need professional photos ?.
Photographs are the best way to promote your child/children and we feel that it is essential that these photos are professional and up to date . If you have recent professional shots (12x8), including one black and white that we feel are suitable, we can use these. Professional photos capture the best possible shot of your child/children and show them to their best potential. The photographs will be used to promote them in our model catalogues and on our website.

How much do professional photos cost?
If you do not have your own professional photos at Carstings we are able to offer you a fantastic package with two local Photographic Studios. Having your photos taken in a studio is also valuable experience as it will help the children be aware of what to do on their first assignment. The Young Performers package costs £120 – to find out more, please click here.

How do the children get work?
Details and photos of all our young performers and models are sent out to producers, casting directors and fashion catalogues. “Kid Appeal” is strong and the children can expect to do anything from modelling for a book cover or catalogue, TV adverts, musical videos, West End Stage or even films.

Do children need a licence?
Carstings will help in acquiring a license for your child/children in accordance with The Children and Young Persons Act 1963. All children of compulsory school age will require a license and license forms will be sent to you once your child/children have been accepted into the agency.

How much will it cost to join Carstings ?
There is a joining fee of £25 per child, but unlike many other agencies this is a one off charge. It covers all our administration costs and inclusion of the photos into the model book and the website.

Will my child/children need to sign a contract with Carstings ?
When your child/children come onto our books you will be asked to sign a 12 month contract on their behalf. After one year contracts are extended by mutual agreement. We regret that if your child/children are signed to another agency they cannot be signed to Carstings until their present contract ends.

How much do the children get paid?
Fees can vary depending on the type of work they are doing. Photographic and modelling work can start from £25 per hour but also could be as much as £65 per hour (minimum 2 hours) depending on your child/children's age and casting. Television and film work pays more and is negotiable by the job.

How much commission will the agency receive?
Carstings will collect all gross fees on behalf of our client. Commission will be deducted at 20% and a self accounting invoice/statement supplied, containing gross fees and agreed special expenses and standard deductions.

How do I know if my child/children are suitable?
Personality and temperament are extremely important and an upbeat personality is vital. Drama and/or dance training are an advantage but not essential, directors like children who have had some training.

3 – 12 months - We are happy to accept babies from the age of 3 months .

12 months – 3 years - The toddler age group is always one of the hardest to work with. Children of this age group need to be calm, happy and confident. If your child is easily bored or distracted then it might be better to wait a while before applying.

3 years – 25 years - This age group should be confident and well behaved. They should also have character, enjoy performing, having their photograph taken and meeting new people.

For modelling jobs for mid to late teens it is essential that your child/children look their age or younger, rather than older.

How should the children dress for auditions?
The children should always arrive on time and have a clean, tidy appearance. They should not wear clothes with logos and they must have shoes that are clean. A smile must be evident. Sometimes a particular style is requested but we would advise you of this beforehand.