I went to an agency and they told me I had pay them money up front for pictures.
2006-11-25 15:59:29 · 11 answers · asked by Anonymous in Arts & Humanities ➔ Theater & Acting
that's how you know.
Good for you for trusting your gut.
The creepy thing is, though, is that they *might* be wavering on the line between legit and fake/scam. If they are a low end agency, and don't have a lot of work coming in, they might be listed with a few legitmate sources and be trying to sneak some extra bucks on the side, by signing a lot more people than they need to and then making a hard sell/push with those people for pictures with a certain photographer. It's not uncommon for C or D level agencies to try this for a while, until someone finally "reports" them. Then they apologize profusely, pretend they didn't really "make" anyone take pictures with a specific photographer, and wait until the fuss dies down, and then they do it again. (sad, I know.) I had a franchised agency in the midwest that tried that; I just blew them off, but I saw them getting a lot of young and new talent pulled in for their $800 headshot session with their special guy. I live in LA now and I know of several agencies that you can find listed in all the reputable books that are known for the ol' pictures scam.
You do need pictures to get started, but your instincts were right on the money with these people. Especially now that internet casting has gotten so huge, get some really good digital photos taken that look like you and start getting them out.
Agents DO like to fuss that your pictures aren't "right" and encourage you to get new ones. You can tell the difference because the legit agent says "I really want a pix of you that looks more edgy, here's some numbers of photographers our clients use that we like, why don't you meet with some of them and when you meet someone you like we'll talk to them before the session about what we're looking for" and the agent that's trying to scam you says "these pictures won't work, you MUST get new ones, we use Mr. Expensive guy, here's his number." be guaranteed in this circumstance that Mr. Expensive guy is giving the agency a kickback (either that or Mr. Expensive is the agent's son/boyfriend/husband/best friend, etc.)
trust your instincts and keep looking.
2006-11-25 17:58:05 · answer #1 · answered by lalabee 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
All of these are pretty good answers. Just to add a couple of things. An agent is employed by you to help you find work as a performer. A reputable agent will not, and in some states (Canada as well) are not allowed to advertise. Some agencies will charge their clients a fee for office work, but the good ones don't need to. An agency will take you on because they believe they can make money from your work, and it is therefore in their best interest to help you (by getting you into casting agents and auditions) in finding that work. You are ultimately responsible in getting the work through you talent, drive, craft.
A competent agent with good connections who believes in your ability and will fight for you can make all the difference in a performer's career, and are worth every dime of their percentage. But remember your agent is not your friend, but your business associate.
2006-11-28 07:06:01 · answer #2 · answered by Steve C 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've never had an agent. But I'd say the agent's job is to find work you can do. He is then paid his percentage.
I don't believe you need to pay up front. Did you audition for this agency? That might give you a clue. If they didn't audition you how would they know if you can perform the work they find for you?
2006-11-25 17:39:30 · answer #3 · answered by nancymomkids 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Leave the office if someone asks that you pay them. They pay you, you don't pay agents!
Outside of major markets, there are few franchised Talent Agencies.
2006-11-25 18:30:01 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Basically, if they immediately try to enroll you in classes and charge tuition, you should run. If they tell you that you have to use their photographer for headshots, run. Find out who the agency represents, what kind of jobs they have placed talent in, and which auditions they send talent to. Shop around, and do your homework.
2006-11-25 16:08:57 · answer #5 · answered by McBeth 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
All legitimate Talent Agents MUST be a member of:
The Association of Talent Agents
You can check them out before your appointment with them at:
http://www.agentassociation.com/
If they are not listed on ATA they are NOT a member.
ATA member agents can ONLY represent union actors.
2006-11-25 17:07:49 · answer #6 · answered by newyorkgal71 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
a real talent agency is not a photography studio, they will ask you for pictures that you got through your own devices.
2006-11-25 17:01:02 · answer #7 · answered by fancyname 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
A legit agency NEVER,EVER,asks for money up front.They either sign you or may send you on a couple of jobs.If they like you,they spend thier money for photo's. best to go and get your own portfolio together.
2006-11-25 16:07:49 · answer #8 · answered by summerbuddy360 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Check with the Better Business Bureau they can give you a lot of information on businesses and their ratings as a business.
2006-11-25 16:41:33 · answer #9 · answered by shaj318 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
common sense... or in your case (cents)
2006-11-25 16:02:49 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋