Spotlight now welcomes performers from 6+ months, providing a secure, professional path for industry children.
Your child’s journey into the industry is a milestone-filled adventure and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. We are thrilled to invite babies and toddlers (from six months old) to join Spotlight, making it easier than ever for casting directors to find the youngest stars in a safe, professional environment.
From capturing the perfect natural snapshot at home to highlighting your little one’s blossoming personality, we’re committed to providing the tools you need to navigate this exciting new chapter with confidence. Read on for some tips and guidance on safety, photos and joining criteria for your little one.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- Advice on taking headshots at home
- Tips for managing your child’s Spotlight profile
- Why Spotlight is expanding its age range
- Guidance on how to join Spotlight through a registered agent and the vetting process involved
Tips for Your Tiny Performer’s Spotlight Profile
1. Headshots
A headshot is a closely cropped portrait (typically head-and-shoulders) photo used as a performer’s primary calling card to secure auditions. It’s usually the first thing casting directors look at on Spotlight profiles and allows them to understand your little performer’s current look, personality and casting type. Because babies and toddlers change so quickly, it’s worth changing your child’s headshot frequently so casting directors can see who your little one is today.
Tips for how often to change your child’s headshots:
- Monthly for Babies: We know parents and caregivers are busy people so it might be worth setting a recurring calendar reminder to remind you to swap out headshots.
- Quarterly for Toddlers: Update at least every three months.
- The Date Stamp: Always include the month and year in the photo description (e.g. ‘Taken January 2026′) so casting directors know it’s current.
Tips for Baby Headshots:
Casting directors want to see a natural look so don’t worry about fancy outfits or overly staged photos when you’re taking your baby’s picture at home. Here are some tips for capturing an ideal headshot for your baby’s Spotlight profile:
- Avoid Accessories: Don’t obscure your little one’s face with large hair bows, hats, sunglasses. Also try to keep outfits simple and neutral.
- Clean Faces: Ensure there are no stray crumbs or milk stains on your child’s face – natural is best!
- Eye Contact: You want your baby’s face to be visible so try to catch them looking toward the camera in soft, natural light (e.g. near a window).
- Solo performance: Your baby should be the focus of a headshot so avoid including siblings or your own hands in the shot.
2. Personality Over Performance
The ‘About Me’ section of the Spotlight profile is your chance to make your little one’s spirit shine. It’s the perfect spot to list physical milestones, their personality traits or even their first words.
Information to consider including:
- Milestones: Are they cruising along furniture or a confident walker?
- Vibe: Use words like “full of giggles,” “curious explorers,” or “gentle and calm” to describe your little one’s personality.
- Keep it Short: A few bullet points about their temperament are more effective than a long biography.
3. Videos
While a traditional showreel isn’t necessary, short clips of your child interacting naturally or moving (crawling/walking) are incredibly helpful for casting directors to see their proportions and energy. If a casting director asks for a video, focus on:
- Movement: A 15-second clip of them playing, crawling, or walking.
- Interaction: A video of them reacting to a song or a peek-a-boo game to show their engagement levels.
Your child’s agent is there to guide you so be sure to run any changes past them so they can offer their expertise. You can also make use of the Agents of Young Performers Association (AYPA)’s website which has lots of useful advice for parents.
We look forward to supporting your family as you take these first steps into the spotlight. Remember, this journey is all about capturing the joy and magic of childhood, and we’re here to ensure it is a safe, professional, and rewarding experience for you both.
