MK Kids | Miami Children's Photographer

Summer is officially over here in South Florida.  Which means modeling season is starting.  As a child and family photographer, I get quite a few inquiries from parents that are interested in getting their kids “in the business”.   As the South Florida modeling season quickly approaches (my son has his first “gig” of the season tomorrow down in Islamorada for Next, a clothing company from the UK) I thought it would be a great opportunity to answer some FAQ’s regarding the modeling industry here in sunny FLA.  It’s my pleasure to introduce to you Michelle Karoly, owner of the leading child modeling and talent management company, MK Kids.  (This is the first ever interview on the courtney ortiz photography blog.  Maybe a new feature!)

Hi Michelle, welcome to the courtney ortiz photography blog.  Tell us a little about yourself.

I am a thirty-something mother, daughter and wife. I was born and raised in South Florida and have always had an interest in the modeling industry and fashion in general. I am married to my best friend and have two amazing, beautiful children. How did you get involved in the modeling industry? I became involved in children’s modeling through my own kids. They are still very much involved in the industry. After being involved with them for a few seasons I realized just how much I enjoyed the industry and just how knowledgable I had become. What was the motivating force behind MK Kids? I started MK Kids as a way to assist parents of children get and stay in the business. I also saw a need for a smaller, more personal approach, where the manager truly was managing and helping their talent in every way. What is the difference between an agent and a manager? An agency represents many individuals and is not involved with anything you do with other agencies. If you are represented by more than one agency, you have to deal with all the agencies on your own and juggle it all yourself. Although they promote you, you are one of many individuals they represent. A manager, on the other hand, works with a select group of individuals and therefore the relationship is much more personal and informative. You only have to deal with your manager, who then in turns deals with all the various agencies for you. You are signed solely with the manager who then sends you out to all the castings through the various agencies he/she is partnered with. What should a parent do if their child is interested in getting involved in the modeling/entertainment industry? All a parent has to do is submit a few snapshots along with the standard information (D.O.B., height and clothing size). Professional photographs are not necessary when submitting. A reputable manager/agency only makes money when your child makes money, so be careful of any manager/agency that requires you to pay any upfront fees. What do you look for in kids? There isn’t one specific thing we look for in kids.  Personality does play a big factor in child modeling.  A child who isn’t afraid of the camera and is able to connect with the camera certainly catches our eye.

And because what parent doesn’t love gorgeous images of their kids.  Here are a few of Michelle’s own “model” children.

For more information on MK Kids check out the website and facebook page.

courtney ortiz photography

modern family photography