Looks are important, but agents put emphasis on finding photogenic rather than beautiful children. Many kids are attractive but do not act or feel natural in front of a camera. Sometimes agencies are looking for a certain "look" to fulfill a particular acting role or modeling assignment. This could mean a red-headed child or a kid with olive skin. A lovely smile is also a plus point for agencies.
Talent agencies want to see confident, outgoing kids who do not sulk or cry easily. The child should be able to follow instructions with a positive attitude. Agencies also want kids who are happy to go to auditions and casting calls. Children should be resilient in the face of rejection and keen to try again. Too often, a parent's show business aspirations are bigger than the child's.
Many talent agencies like to see some kind of former experience in modeling or acting before taking a child as a client. Experience as basic as dance classes or voice coaching might qualify. Commercials or print advertising work experience is particularly sought. Talent agencies are looking for a kid who shows talent and potential. A child who can project his voice and perform good cold reading stands a good chance with talent agencies.
For the best chance of success a child should be between the ages of five and 12. Talent agencies are wary of taking on older children because of changes to their height and voices. The child should have a headshot and resume to show the agency ,and preferably contact sheets showing a range of shots and poses. Children who succeed in finding a talent agency need to prove that they can work, so a social security card and work permit are both necessary.