BecomingWhoYouWantToBe

One of the most important things any actor can have, from an aspiring up-and-coming to a seasoned veteran, is a Talent Agent. Being represented by a talent agency is something that all actors, from film to television to commercial, can benefit from. Not only will they work with you in order to get you noticed, but they’ll also book you for auditions, gigs, and other forms of work while you focus on other things. This fact alone makes a good agent invaluable, but one must also bear in mind that getting representation is a very difficult task. Most agents will not consider representing you unless you’re effectively able to market yourself or you have experience to prove you can do what you say.

The first thing you must do is ensure your headshots are up-to-date. Never show any agency old headshots, even if they’re “better” than your current ones. Agents want to see you, even if your headshot isn’t glamorous, and they’re less likely to consider you if your headshots are drastically different than what you look like. This doesn’t mean you should get new headshots every month; a new set every year to eighteen months would be ideal if you can afford them. Also, if you have a reel, make sure it’s up to date, too.

Don’t ever assume that bright colors, exotic backdrops, fancy costumes, or crazy angles will make your headshot stand out. You’re selling yourself, not your photographer’s creativity, and anything that detracts from you will make you less memorable. Simplicity is your friend, and if your photographer wants to do some experimenting, find another one less inclined to “have fun.” You aren’t displaying these photographs. They’re not supposed to be “cool,” they’re supposed to be you. They’re your link to the industry, so keep them simple and focused on you. Find a photographer willing to work with you, and tell him to leave his fancy gel filters at home.

Unless you’re trying to break into every field in the industry, make sure you select an agent that specializes in your chosen field. If you want to act in films, seek out a film agent. The same goes for television, commercials, modeling, et cetera. Branching out might net you more work but it will limit your growth as an actor. Keeping your focus on one field will enable faster development and make you better at your craft. That, in turn, leads to more work.

Above all else, never forget this one thing: do not ever pay up front! Typically, agents will not ask for fees or an upfront payment to represent you. They make their money by taking a percentage of what you earn. The more work you do, the more they get paid. Paying up front can have disastrous results, especially if you don’t get any work at all. In this case, you would have paid for nothing. On that same token, be mindful of what you sign. Read the fine print and don’t ever sign immediately. Think about it, take their offer into consideration, and make an informed choice before you lay down your John Hancock.

Be smart and be careful, and you’ll never put yourself in an unfavorable situation. Your career practically depends on being represented, so do not skimp! A great way to start is by using a site like TalentPostings.com where you can create an online profile to allow agents to find and contact you directly. Good luck out there.

Author Mike Fenward has a total of two decades industry knowledge. He currently specializes in helping aspiring actors find Casting Calls. To find agents looking for talent, visit TalentPostings.com.

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