Trying to get some information about talent agencies, fees, etc

[adelaidesmom]

Hello All,

I am new to this site and happy I found it!

My child just had an audition for an agency and out of 50 children, they chose her.  They sent us the contract to look over and I have questions of course.

There is a cost not for signing on to the agency, but to get professional photos and comp cards done.  The fee is $700 which sounds like a lot, but of course I have not done this before.  I would think a photographer is a bit cheaper.  They do supply the comp cards for 2 years along with this price.

Is this a norm to be asked to pay this fee?  for this service?  They are reputable and I have checked them out.  We have another agency to take her to this weekend, so we want to see if they also ask for photos and fees for that.  They do send you out with a list of photographers to choose from.

Please advise what you know and any tips would help us.  We don't want to sign her with someone that is not worthy.  But in Boston area, there are only three agencies to choose from that are top ones.

It is a modeling / talent agency.

We are more interested in acting for her but know this is one of the routes to take with the modeling as it will open her up to commercials, etc.

New to the business.  However, my husband is SAG and also searching for an agency to represent him.  This agency wants him as well when they met him when he brought my daughter in.

Thanks so much.

JT

[lneeson]

Hi,

My daughter, Ally, who is 13 now has had a manager for 4 years now, and they have their own professional photographer to do her comp cards, which last us two years and I had to pay $250. I got to keep 100 comp cards and her manager keeps 100 and sends them to different casting directors/agencies in NYC and Philly. She's been on many auditions for commercials, tv, theatre and movies, so the comp cards have been working. She has booked several commercials and was an "extra" for a feature film with 20th century fox. Since she is older now, we just need the professional headshots, especially sine she is really into musical theatre, they really want the kids to have headshots, not comp cards.

 

 

[MariaC68]

Hi,

This is not a route we have taken yet, but we've had several offers (just never had the chance to sign with anyone).

Regardless...in one of my conversations, the representative mentioned that they require the child to have a full portfolio and the cost of that could be anywhere from $1,000 - $2,000. 

So the amount you mention is not so far off.  But I do like the sound of $250 much better.

Keep in mind, I'm from Long Island, NY - and depending on where you're located the cost may differ.

If you don't want to pay that amount, you may want to ask the agency if you can put together your own portfolio.  Then price out different photographers - you may be able to get a better deal on your own.  Although the convenience of the agency taking care of everything may be well worth it.

Good luck to you & keep us informed....