You’ve researched your market and the agency
options. You’ve collected talent feedback and used online resources to
gain farther knowledge. Now you have a list of preferred agents for
representation, right?
Great, it’s time to take action! In your
online research, you likely found a website for each agency. Most
agencies list directions on how best to apply on their website, so comb through
their online information carefully until you find it. No matter how inconvenient
the process may seem to you, it is crucial that you follow the directions
given. You may be able to submit online, in hardcopy via mail, or by
dropping your package off, but the key is making it convenient for the busy
agent whose #1 focus is the talent on set and the clients making their phone
ring.
If you are sure there are no directions listed,
here are the usual options. Most agencies will want you to apply online –
it’s fast, convenient, and free. If you have an email address or contact form
(from their website), submit your information online. Note that when
submitting online without being directed to do so, you should write one
sentence letting the receiving party know that you can forward this information
to the appropriate source if they will be kind enough to direct you to the
person in charge of New Faces. You may not be able to access online
contact information, in which case you would want to submit with hardcopy
information.
One last option (and definitely not a wise choice for
the majority of the talent pool) is to drop off your package in person.
Let me clarify that most people are not so dynamic in person in the matter of
seconds that this would be beneficial to your cause. You are more likely
to disrupt a busy office and irritate the booker by showing up. However,
there are those 2-3 people in a million who are so stellar in a few seconds of
meeting them that they can wow their way into an agent’s line of
vision. Unless you are 100% positive you are one such person, do not try
to drop off your submission for representation. That being said, if you
are sure that you are so dynamic, be professional enough to walk in, sparkle,
hand the package to the receptionist, thank him/her, and walk out the
door. Do not ask questions or demand to see an agent immediately.
The receptionist will likely find you so charming that she’ll pass the
information along to the appropriate person.
I assume that each agency has different requirements for the application process to their agency, but something that is pretty universal is pictures. If you are a new face in search of representation, what suggestions would you make regarding pictures? Do you believe professional photos are necessary or do you think it more appropriate to have unproffessional photos taken? Also what kind of photos does the individual in charge of new faces like to see usually (face, body, posed, natural, etc.)?
Posted by: Jabe | 05/01/2010 at 02:23 PM
Any new face should get some very flattering snapshots (lovingly referred to sometimes as "polaroids") that show face and body clearly. If the new face is a model, swimsuits or underwear are good wardrobe choices, but please keep the images clean. An actor, on the other hand, can be flatteringly clothed.
The agency needs to see an accurate physical representation of the talent applying. Bear in mind your weight, height, and clothing sizes should be listed on other materials submitted or included in the package as well.
Posted by: Melinda Eisnaugle | 05/01/2010 at 03:09 PM