Are You Concerned With Shooting With an Agent’s Photographer?
A dad from Indiana asked me what I thought
about his daughter having to take an agent’s acting
class and shoot with the agent’s photographer in order
to get representation.
All agents need great photos to market their talent. It is also
imperative that all talent have great acting skills before
attending an audition. However, it would make me a bit
nervous to sign with an agent who won’t represent your daughter
if she does not study and shoot with the agents industry
professionals.
It should not matter where your daughter get’s her training or
photos taken. It is one thing if the agent suggests people to you,
even if it includes their own in-house professionals. that is fine, but
to have them say that they won’t represent her if she does not shoot
or study with them raises many red flags for me.
Maybe the agent’s classes are great, but I would audit a class in order to see
if you you are getting the kind of information that will be helpful to you. I
would also want to see the photographers work to make sure you are getting
your monies worth if you decide to work with them.
SAG-AFTRA, the main Union for actors, do not allow their Signatory agents
(agents who have signed contracts with the Union) to offer classes. They are concerned
about this exact issue – an agent not representing talent if they don’t take their classes.
So, I would check out the agent’s contacts, and see if the agent will still work
with your daughter if you decide to shoot and study elsewhere.
Have you ever run into this issue? If so, leave a comment below. I would prefer that specific names of schools not be mentioned.
About the Author: Aaron Marcus
Aaron Marcus has been a full-time actor and commercial model for over 33 years.
His new book, How to Become a Successful Actor and Model is an Amazon Best Seller.
Aaron has given his seminar: "Book the Job" over 700 times spanning 3 continents.
He also offers online workshops.
Aaron saves 5 days each month to give private on-line coaching sessions.