Finding a Talent Agent
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.
While on the subject of headshots, keep in mind that simplicity is key. Despite what some photographers will tell you, loud colors or crazy angles will not mean more work. If your photographer wants to experiment with your wardrobe, backgrounds, or angles, move on to someone else! Never forget that you are the focus of your headshots! Anything distracting in the photo will stand out more to a prospective agent than you will, which defeats the purpose altogether. Remember, these photos are one of your most important links to the industry and are not destined for your mantle. Less is more, so find a photographer willing to work with you and not with you.
Another thing to bear in mind when seeking an agent: make sure you find one in your field. Agents represent many different kinds of actors in many different fields, from film to television to commercials and even modeling. If you’re a film actor, you want to seek out a film agent. They will focus more on getting you work in films, feature length or otherwise. The same is true if you’re in television, commercials, et cetera. Working with an agent in your chosen field will ensure you remain there, and that’s important unless you want to be an all-around actor. This practice can limit you, however, as focusing on a single field will ensure you develop and mature faster in that field. Branching out can get more work but it will limit your ability to grow.
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.
Do not short yourself and be careful. You’re dealing with your career and you cannot afford to skimp or take unnecessary risks. An amazing resource is a site called TalentPostings.com, which allows you to create an online profile that gives you a ton of exposure to talent industry agents. Good luck!
Author Mike Fenward has over 25 years industry knowledge. He currently specializes in helping aspiring actors find Casting Calls. To gain exposure to agents looking for talent, visit TalentPostings.com.
