Pick and Choose Your Fights With Agents, Photographers and Other Industry Professionals

There are times when you absolutely need to stand up for yourself and fight with industry people, but it is also important to know when to just let things go and not have a battle.

I booked a modeling job a few months back. The agent told me I would receive a specific hourly fee, and if my face was seen in the shot, I would receive an additional $200 bonus. The photographer was incredible and I really hope to work with him again in the future. However, it was very hard getting a copy of the ad we shot. It took about four e-mails to the photographer before I got my tear sheet. I knew it was going to be great, and I really wanted a copy. I am always very persistent when it comes to getting “tears,” but must walk a fine line between being persistent and being a pain. You never want to cross that line.

I finally received the jpg of the ad. After seeing the tear, I could make the argument that my face was visible, but decided not to request my agent to ask for the bonus. After sending so many personal e-mails to the photographer, an immediate phone call from the agent might be perceived as me bugging him for the photo in order to get additional money. This ad was just a brochure for a small company so it was not a big deal to me.

I believe that this photographer will want to hire me again, and I will earn much more than the $200 I lost by not complaining to the agent. So, before you start battling with industry professionals, even if you think you are right, always look at the bigger picture to see if it will be a good and helpful fight.

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.