Are you ready to start seeking representation for your child? Here is the correct way to do it and some important questions to ask yourself and your child BEFORE you submit.

 

 

1. Is my child social and well behaved? You may have the most gorgeous child on the planet, but if they are super shy or are a free spirit, this industry may not be a good fit. Kids as young as 2 will be asked to audition alone in a room with the casting director, or may have to wait for an extended period of time to audition or go on set for a job. It is  not always the most gorgeous child who gets the job, but many times, especially in the commercial market, it's a child who is very outgoing and easy to get along with.

2. Are you prepared to dig into your pockets?There will be financial responsibilities involved in having your child in the industry. Once you are signed to an agency, if your child is over the age of 5, they will need to have professional photos done. This means selecting a professional, commercial photographer who specializes in shooting models and talent for a living. Additionally, you will need to print comp cards and/or headshots for your agency and to take with you on castings. Photos should also be done to reflect your child's current look, meaning once every year or so, you will need to take new ones. Your agency cannot properly market you without these. Coaching, Classes and Workshops are also necessary in helping your child succeed in this industry. All successful actor's, adults and kids alike, are constantly working with a coach or taking classes to better themselves. This industry, just like any sport your kids may be involved in, will require some money to get you started and keep you active. No agency will front the cost for these materials, these are the tools you need to help your child become successful.

3. Does my child really want this? This is a very important question and needs to be answered sincerely, by your child. While working at the agency, it was very evident who the kids were that wanted this, and who the kids were whose parents were pushing them to do it. Your child, like any other hobby, or sport should be the one driving this, if they are not it is evident and is a waste of time and money. Also, it is important that your child is in it for the RIGHT reasons, there are long hours on sets, many hours of travel and auditions and some rejection that come along with the business. It can be overwhelming, make sure you and your child are prepared! Having a coach who can help act as a consultant, really helps! :)

 

 

If the answers to all the above is YES, here are some pointers for submitting!

 

 

When it comes to submitting and finding a quality agent with a good reputation you must READ what they are asking of you! The first thing you should do is go to the agency website that you are submitting for, 9 times out of 10, there will be specific instructions there. Be sure to follow them exactly as they are written (this also shows the agent that you read and comprehend instructions, a necessity when it comes to receiving castings and future information). This is not a recommendation, they are telling you EXACTLY how they want their submissions, make sure to follow directions. 

 

 

Here a few helpful hints (each agency will vary, but from experience, here are some pointers!

 

 

 

Consultation is a service I provide, and if you have any further questions, you may feel free to call or email me about your inquiry. The industry is not learned overnight and it is better to have as much knowledge under your belt as possible when dealing with such a fast paced business!