Baby Modeling - Pampers Casting

Child modeling or acting is a bit of a controversial topic. Some say it's exploitation, others say it's college tuition! How I see it is that if the child enjoys it and it's not harming them in anyway, (I guess this last part is debatable...) why not?!

My little guy has been plastered all over Facebook and Twitter since he was a mere bump in my belly, so when I saw a casting call by Donna Grossman Casting for Pampers packaging last week, I didn't hesitate! Apparently, they're doing new packages in their various international markets (Japan, Philippines, India, etc) so were looking for moms and babies of all ethnicities. The one I specifically responded to was the one for Asian moms and babies. I know I know, I'm not Asian, but I went ahead and sent our pictures in by email and wouldn't you know in about 5 minutes they had responded with an "audition" date and time!

They were very specific about the wardrobe for the audition - mom in a sleeveless white tank top (not low cut) and baby in pampers diapers only. Done and done!

We got there around 4pm for our 4:20pm call. The waiting room had about 5 other babies with their moms in there. All of them lounging around in their diapers - it was so freaking cute!! The receptionist kept making announcements about keeping hold of your baby since the floors were cement and their were metal benches. But, one mom didn't listen and her little guy (maybe 1.5 years?) ended up with a busted lip! Yikes!!! He cried so hard, there was lots of blood, I don't even know them and I was traumatized!! Luckily the drama didn't effect Kenzo. We played with some toys we brought and I tried to keep him in a good mood, despite being overdue for his afternoon nap.

While waiting to go in for the shoot!

Finally we were called in and they had the white floor and backdrop with about 4 staff set up at the front, with lights, camera, computer, etc. The one lady was really helpful with giving explicit directions about what I should do. First we took some photos standing with Kenzo on my hip. Then sat down with him in front of me, then let him crawl toward the lady. She was AMAZING with him!! I've never seen him warm up to someone and be in hysterical giggles so fast!! He's usually frozen when we're out and about, not one to give smiles away to strangers. We did some shots with me laying on my side and him in front, then me laying down on my tummy and him sitting and looking at me. They wanted me to get him to swat at me and be silly. Not an easy task! She was like "Sneeze! Blow on his face!" haha!

I know we must have gotten some fantastic shots, I wish I could get copies but I'm sure it's not possible. On our way out I asked when we would hear anything. Apparently they'll only call if we book the shoot, which would be shot at the end of November, so we wouldn't hear for quite some time (mid-November?). This shocked me - they're dealing with babies here - in 2 months they will change so much!! But whatever, I guess we wait! If we get booked, it's $500 just for doing the shoot, and $6,000 if they actually use us on a package - HELLO!!! YES PLEASE!!!

He was pooped! Slept the whole subway ride home! :)

It all brought be back to the wee bit of modeling I did in Japan a few years ago for Yamaha and Bosendorfer. I have to say playing with your baby is a whole lot easier than playing the piano for the camera and crew! Still, there was much sweating!

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