Elephant in the room
I want to talk about something…
Normally I don’t like talking about this, because it makes me feel sick. I really try to be somebody who’s very optimistic. I don’t like to see life as so sinister, I just always try to hope that the world is a better place.
so let’s talk about
Now in this industry I gotta admit there are some weirdos but in rare cases there are childhood predators. Most recently I found out about one case. Somebody who’s prominent and have lots of people really admire their work. You know what what I mean? This man had his own magazine. He had done business with many reputable brands. Yet how did did we let his supposed genius cloud all our thinking?
the Wrong reasons
Did we instead think that this was a chance for fame? For easy industry acknowledgement and attention? Perhaps it was just money? Was this enough to sacrifice childhood? My experience is I’ve been working with my children for many years. We’ve been doing this sort of as a family thing.
Remember Michael Jackson?
Do not be thinking that all people in the industry are like this. However unfortunately the most creative minds may not understand social behaviors that the rest of us have learned while growing up. Also some creative minds have been forced at an early age to not have a childhood. They tend to be stunted in their brain. Finally those who abuse have often been abused, children who usually experience success often get treated like adults. We don’t know the previous situations these people have gone through.
Watch out for my cubs
I try my best to make sure that there’s nothing really unsavory going on. I always keep alert to pick up on shady stuff too. Although I spend more time with my daughter than my son in these situations. I’m actually more worried about male predators specifically towards boys. So I want to give you some tips that I use.
just Be there
Modeling is a hobby that for children that requires supervision. Sadly this why if you work your child will have much less chances. Since you must always accompany (or have your family member, whomever partner, husband, grandma, etc) your child to the shoot. Be at shoots and be present. Let any would be predators know that there is a a gatekeeper!
Positive reinforcement of boundaries
- Do some reconnaissance pre shoot. Check the photographer’s (casting company) portfolio on their website or Instagram. Make sure that there are not any inappropriate or suspicious pictures.
- Make sure upon entering, you first get a lay of the land. Look around, introduce yourself and say hello. Make sure that everybody knows you (or your representative) are there.
- Make sure that there’s a fitting room at all times provided so that the child can change. Also there’s some kind of space where they feel like they have a safe space to say how they really feel.
- Pick a safety word before the shoot. If the child feels weird, tell them they can say it any time
- Look at t the clothing or product. The items they are representing should be appropriate. If your child feels uncomfortable for any reason, find out why and address it immediately.
- Don’t sign off on the photo release until once the images are taken during the shoot. If you for some reason already think the shoot was too sexual, scrutinize the photos make sure they are appropriate. If there are images with awkward positions, do not let them be considered. Examine these photos like would your child be happy to look at these photos in twenty years?
Finally trust your gut!
If you feel icky…. If your kid is acting way too clingy to you! Most likely something is up. I hope this helps to remind you how you can be proactive to make this activity as safe and fun as possible.