what is a talent agency?and what do they do?

Question

and can yopu name a few good ones?

I WANT YOU GUYS TO NAME A FEW GOOD ONES IN NEW YORK.

ONES THAT REPRESENT YOUTH IN THE FILM AND TELEVISION AREAS.

Answer 1

A Talent Agency is usually a group of agents that handle different types of clients in the entertainment industry. It varies from agency to agency, but they can handly actors (for commerical work, theatrical work, modeling), they can handle directors, writers, athletes, etc. Your agent will negotiate your contract with the production company and get you as much money as is fair or as much as he/she can :-) After all, they only get 10% so the more you get the more they get! They also make sure you are provided for as far as accomodations, per diem, and whatever else may be necessary.

As for a good agency, it depends more on your rapport with the agent themselves. An agency may have a big reputation, but it's more about what the individual agent will do for you. As a new actor, depending on your credits, you may not have your pick... Got to SAG.org, get a list of Franchised agents near you, and do a mailing. See who responds, meet with them, and see who you click with. Personally I would do a 6 month probationary contract with 1 agent for theatrical (tv & film) and another for commercial and if things go well sign a longer agreement. If not, mail a note or postcard to another agent who was interested in you and try the same thing.

The large companies have clout and can sometimes get you cast just because the project is being done entirely in house, meaning the writer is with them, so is the director, so the've decided to cast everything there as well. But a smaller agency, you're likely to get way more personal attention. They also have good rapport with Casting directors. You're big agent, likely has a big client who will get way more of his/her time and attention and when you call they may say "And you are? Oh, yeah, um... he's in a meeting" That's not necesarily true, but it could be. That's why you have to meet with people and feel things out for yourself.

Good luck!

They both have their ups and downs,

Answer 2

An agent represents you to professional companies who would like to hire you, they negotiate pay and contracts. A common misconception is that they charge you for these services but an agent doesn't make money unless you do by booking a job, then they take 10% of whatever you are being paid.

Go get a copy of the Ross Reports, it's a complete listing of agents and films accepting mail ins right now.

Answer 3

Poorly designed website. Looks like a scam, be careful. They only want your money. They are NOT a legitimate Talent Agency.

I know because legitimate Talent Agencies are CANNOT have a website.

Most of the talent agencies in New York City have excellent reputations. Too many to name. Unless you are currently in NYC, you don't need that information, you can research it, if and when you move here.

Answer 4

A talent agency is were your agent tells you about jobs and books you for them. Some good ones are www.kiddenaround.com , www.commercialkids.com , www.newfaces.com