Casting Kids, Author at Casting Kids

Acting, Modelling

What Should a Child Casting Agency in Melbourne Offer?

Posted on June 24, 2020August 1, 2020 by Casting Kids

24
Jun

If your child is interested in trying some acting or modelling, there are some great opportunities out there. The only difficulty is finding the right kind of help. That’s why you need a reputable, professional child casting agency in Melbourne. A lot of people understand the auditions process, and even what to expect on a set, but there’s not as much information available about what a casting agency should do for you. So, to help you navigate through choosing the right agency, this information should help!

What does a child casting agency in Melbourne Do?

Firstly, it’s important to understand what a child agency does. Many people think a casting agency guarantees work, however that’s not the case. An agency should represent your child at all times with honesty and transparency. Sometimes, that may even mean letting you know they can’t represent your child.

It’s the casting agency’s job to determine if they believe they can find work for your child, and if not, it would be unethical to take your registration fees. If an agency chooses to represent you, they should refer your child for work and actively promote them to clients. However, there is never any guarantee of work because casting directors and clients ultimately have the final say. That being said, without a child casting agency in Melbourne, it can be difficult to obtain auditions, so it’s definitely worth it.

Here are a few things a casting agency should offer.

Representation

Representation means referring your child for suitable jobs. Most reputable agencies will have a list of quality clients who regularly seek them out for actors and models. Larger clients particularly, won’t but open casting calls out to the public – they use agencies. So, in order to get the best jobs, a casting agency is a must.

Professional photo sessions

If you haven’t already got some professional photos, that’s ok. Agencies understand that children will have less experience than their older counterparts, so they can help. Most registration fees will include a professional photo session, because this makes it easier to market your child to acting and modelling jobs.

Profile on industry websites

There are entertainment industry websites and networks that make the whole process of referring and auditioning a lot easier. For example, at Casting Kids, all of our kids get a profile on Casting Networks. This is where the professional photo comes in, and we’ll put together a profile on your child’s behalf.

This gives casting directors and clients a way to easily receive referrals and select who they’d like to see for an audition. So, make sure your casting agency will be profiling your child to increase their chance of finding work.

Want the best child casting agency in Melbourne?

Here at Casting Kids, we’ve represented plenty of children, and we’ve also got a great list of clients. If you’d like to register your child for acting and modelling work, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at any time if you have questions, or to find out more about what we do here at Casting Kids.

Modelling

Do You Want Your Children Modelling?

Posted on June 16, 2020August 1, 2020 by Casting Kids

16
Jun

A lot of people wonder if they really want their child modelling. It’s a valid question, because it’s not an industry that suits all children. Also, not all parents are comfortable in the showbiz environment. Before you a make the decision whether to let your child do some modelling, here’s a few things to keep in mind.

Focus on fun, not fame

Firstly, think about why your child wants to model. Or, in the case of babies and toddlers, why you want your children modelling. It can be a fun activity for kids, and it can also save some valuable money for their future, but it’s also a job. However, for kids its especially important not to focus on glitz and glamour and fame. Just because they want to try a bit of modelling, it doesn’t mean they’ll be jetting off to the runways of Paris.

While it can certainly turn into a great career, most kids who try modelling just want to do it for a little bit of fun. You play a key role in keeping this pursuit light and fun. Don’t put too much pressure on the kids, and they’ll have a great time.

When children are modelling, it’s a real job

Remember, while it’s all a bit of fun, modelling for children is still a job. As a parent, you’ll need to make time for attending auditions, casting and modelling jobs. When on a job, the directors have work to do, and they don’t always have a lot of time. Photographers and directors with experience in children modelling understand that some patience is required. But they still need to get the job done.

Modelling can be great fun, but it’s also hard work. So, make sure you and your little ones are prepared.

Making sure your child is suitable for modelling

Regardless of age, but for babies and infants in particular, there’s a few things you need to consider. We’d all agree that most babies are cute, but it takes a little more than a smiley face to be a child model. Firstly, you need consider temperament. In all children’s modelling work, there will be a requirement to stay still, and not all kids are able to do this.

You’ll also need to consider how they interact with others. Babies love being held by their parents, but what if they have to be held by another adult? This is often required, so babies need the right temperament.

For older kids, behaviour, temperament and friendliness are also requirements. There’s more expectation on older kids, so they’ll need to be able to focus on the task at hand.

Want to get started with your children modelling?

One of the best things you can do is find a reputable casting agency to help your children’s modelling career. Contact us today to find out how we can get your child started!

Acting, Modelling

How Does Casting for Babies Work?

Posted on June 10, 2020August 1, 2020 by Casting Kids

10
Jun

Do you have a cute baby with a zest for life and laughter? Of course, all babies are amazing, and you might have even considered getting them in to modelling. You might be surprised to learn that casting for babies isn’t much different to other casting. Well, with less lines of course!

If you’d like to get your baby into some acting work and share their smile with the world, here’s how it all works.

Start with registration

Firstly, you need to find a reputable casting agent to work with. Here at Casting Kids, we’ve built a strong reputation with both parents and clients over a number of years. We represent children of all ages and abilities, and promote diversity in the children’s modelling and acting. The first step is simply filling out an online registration form, together with a picture of your baby. You can also mail a form to:

Casting Kids

PO Box 2411

Hawthorn VIC 3122

Attending an interview

Once we’ve received and looked over your registration form, you and your baby will be invited in for a meeting. It’s not something you need to feel pressured about, but we love meeting families. It’s a simple meeting where we’ll discuss your goals, get to know you and your little one, and explain our processes for you.

What happens next?

We should mention that we don’t represent everybody who applies. As we charge an annual registration fee, rather than a percentage of earnings, we don’t feel it’s ethical to collect registration fees if we don’t think we can represent your child. Unfortunately, casting for babies is a tricky business. Through experience, we’ve learned what casting directors look for. If we don’t think we can find work for your baby, we’ll be honest and upfront.

If we do choose to represent your baby, we’ll book in a time for a professional photoshoot with your little one. They’ll also be given a profile on Casting Networks. From there, we begin suggesting your baby for suitable jobs.

Do you guarantee work for my baby?

Unfortunately, we aren’t able to guarantee work. Directors of each project will conduct the final casting for babies, and they make the decision of who they hire. We do however work tirelessly to promote your child to all suitable openings in the industry.

Looking for professional casting for babies?

If you’d like to register your baby for representation, please fill out our registration form to get started. Contact us at any time if you have questions, or to find out more about what we do here at Casting Kids.

Modelling

What Makes a Good Modelling Agency for Kids?

Posted on May 26, 2020August 1, 2020 by Casting Kids

26
May

When a child shows an interest in anything, it’s natural for parents to want the best for them. Whether it be sports, music, hobbies or modelling, you want to help and encourage them. It might mean getting lessons from experts, or signing them up with a local sports club. With modelling, it’s a little different because it’s more like finding a job. That’s why you need a great modelling agency for kids on your side.

Here’s how to decide on the best modelling agency for your child.

Extensive list of clients

Naturally, modelling agency with a long list of current clients are going to be the best option. Simply, this means your son or daughter can be referred for more jobs. Now, bear in mind that a modelling agency can put your child forward for jobs, but the casting director makes the final call. But, with that in mind, an agency with very few clients won’t be able to provide your child with as many opportunities.

Consider fee structures

To ensure you’re getting honest, transparent representation, consider the fee structure. Some agencies will simply take a percentage of what their models earn on jobs they’re referred to. While this gives you a ‘no job, no pay’ situation, it also means your child may not be referred regularly for work. In this sort of fee structure, the agent doesn’t really care who gets the job because they get paid anyway.

Rather, agencies who charge a standard annual registration fee for representation are likely to share the opportunities around. This is simply because they need to keep everyone happy – clients as well as the kids on their books. If children aren’t getting opportunities, they won’t be back next year. So, an annual fee incentivises the modelling agency to represent everyone fairly.

The best modelling agencies for kids don’t sign everyone

While children should always be given a chance to succeed, the fact is that modelling is a business. Casting directors and clients ultimately choose the models they think are best suited. Therefore, modelling agencies have a responsibility to refer the best candidates. It’s for this reason that a reputable modelling agency for kids won’t register all children. It wouldn’t be fair on the kids or parents if a modelling agency took their registration fees and couldn’t find work for them.

Looking for a great modelling agency for kids?

At Casting Kids, our reputation has built by providing years of professional service. We don’t play favourites here, and we believe in giving all of our children an opportunity. We embrace diversity and inclusion, and manage children from babies to 16 years. Contact us today, and find out what makes Casting Kids a different modelling agency for kids.

Acting, Modelling

How to Find Your Children’s Passion

Posted on May 19, 2020August 1, 2020 by Casting Kids

19
May

Some children just love getting involved in every activity they can, but not all kids are the same. As parents it can be concerning to us if a child doesn’t seem to have any particular interest in things. Similarly, it can be tough to pin some children down to just a couple of major interests! As children’s agents, we understand that some kids just take longer than others to find things they’re really passionate about, so that’s not a problem. But there are some things you can try in the hopes of unlocking an interest.

Talk to your child

It might sound obvious, but talking is one of the best ways to find out your child’s interests. Of course, we know that children are experts at giving vague answers, or no answers at all. But you can always find different ways to ask. Even just talking about some of the things they’ve done at school, or maybe what some of their friends do. If you notice a bit of excitement creeping into their voice, it’s the perfect time to ask if they’d like to give something a try!

Consider a musical instrument

Now, we appreciate the thought of an amateur musician in the house isn’t everybody’s idea of a peaceful home. However, some kids don’t even know they enjoy musical instruments until they give them a try. You might not want to rush out and buy a drum kit, but you can start with something smaller. You can also find plenty of instruments second-hand if you’re concerned about spending too much on things your child might not even enjoy.

Seek out children’s agents for acting and modelling

The confidence of children is a trait that we adults sometimes wish we could have. This makes a lot of children really suited to acting or modelling. If your child is always first to volunteer for plays at school, why not set up a meeting with a casting agent? Acting and modelling jobs can be great fun for kids, and they’ll also learn some extra money along the way!

Try some free activities

With kids who just want to do everything, the cost of activities can start to add up. The same is true for kids who want to try everything but never stick to it. Registration fees, uniforms and equipment all costs money. However, there are plenty of free activities through schools and other community group. Get involved, and see if anything really catches your child’s imagination!

Looking for great children’s agents?

If you child shows a bit of flair for the dramatic (and how many children don’t from time to time?), we’d be happy to help. Casting Kids represents children from babies up to 16 years, so if they’re keen on trying acting or modelling, give us a call! We love to meet with families and kids of all ages, so contact us today and find out more!

Acting

How to Find Extra Castings in Australia

Posted on May 13, 2020August 1, 2020 by Casting Kids

13
May

You might be wondering, do kids get jobs as extras in film and TV? Well yes, they sure do! Any film or TV show with scenes in a school or public place is likely to have kids and teens in the background. While extras work isn’t the glamorous life a movie star that kids dream of, it’s a step in the right direction. It can also generate some income along the way. So, how do extra castings work, and what should you expect?

Finding extra castings

The first step is to find roles for extras. You may not even need a casting agent for this, as many jobs are advertised on job websites and other outlets. This is because extras don’t need any particular set of skills, except for following direction. Therefore, you may not even be required to attend an actual casting.

However, if you’re registered with a casting agent and they receive a request for some willing extras, don’t be surprised to get a call. It’s certainly a chance to see how a production set works.

Prepare for the role, no matter how minor

Extras don’t need to memorise lines, but they do need to follow a few instructions. Sometimes, casting directors may put the call out for extras dressed a certain way. For example, they’re filming a scene involving a kid’s cricket game. So, they will want children of a similar age wearing cricket clothes. They may be seeking these extras because the production budget doesn’t include a bunch of cricket uniforms, so they want extras who already own them.

If your extras casting has these sorts of requirements, make sure you know exactly what’s expected. Your regular clothes will usually be fine, but you will be told in advance. Also, productions can’t wait around, so always be there early and ready to go.

Listen to instructions

When you’re on set, you don’t have a lot of responsibilities as an extra. But here’s where that saying, “You had one job,” could really apply if you mess up. All you really need to do is follow direction. You might be in a group of diners at a table. Perhaps swimming laps of a pool. You could also simply be strolling past behind the main scene. The role of an extra isn’t very high-pressure, so just make sure you listen while on set, and follow your instructions.

Looking for kid’s extra casting?

At Casting Kids, we represent children from 6 months to 16 years, and our main focus is finding perfect roles for our clients. If that includes extras casting, we would always discuss with you first. To find out more, contact us today.

Acting, Modelling

How Does Acting and Modelling for Kids Affect School?

Posted on May 5, 2020August 1, 2020 by Casting Kids

05
May

When children develop an interest in acting or modelling, they’ll be happy to skip school for some work. But the fact is, acting jobs, and to a lesser extent modelling, will have an impact on their school work. Many casting sessions occur during school hours. So, while it may not be a big deal to skip a few hours for a casting session, the actual job is a different story.

If your child is lucky enough to be chosen for acting work, the time requirements increase dramatically. Here’s a few ways that acting and modelling can affect a child’s schooling, and how to cope with it.

Take control

Firstly, it’s important to remember that you’re in control. When it comes to your child’s well-being, you need to put them first. Acting and modelling comes second. Children will of course always want to go and do something fun, especially if it means getting out of school! But it’s your right as a parent to just say no if things are impacting their education too much.

At the end of the day, a child’s education is the most important thing. Therefore, you should never feel pressured by casting agents, directors or anybody else. You’re the parent, so you have the final say.

Work together with the school

Chances are you’ll need some assistance from your child’s school if they’re taking up acting or modelling. Firstly, you may ask if teachers can provide you with some work that students can do at home. This may not be an issue for a one-off casting session, but for long-term acting jobs they will need to stay up to speed with the rest of the class.

Also, if your child is picked for a TV show or longer production, the agency applies for a permit so your child can work. To get this permit, the school will need to sign off on it. So, just be upfront with your school and work with them to make sure everything is above board.

Tutors on set

Finally, if your child makes it onto a larger production, they have a right to have tutors on set. You’ll still need the school’s assistance in delivering appropriate work, but a tutor is there to help. It’s not uncommon for larger productions to have tutors on standby, and this can also form part of the job contract.

Find an acting and modelling agency that cares

To make sure your child’s education isn’t affected by acting and modelling jobs, having the right casting agency behind you can help. Not only can they assist with contracts when it comes to having tutors available, or study time built into scheduling, but they can also guide you and your child through the process. A great casting agency is there to help your child, and they will always ensure their well-being is a top priority. Contact us today if you want the right agency to represent your child’s acting and modelling career.

Acting, Blog

How to Ace Casting for Teens

Posted on April 23, 2020August 1, 2020 by Casting Kids

23
Apr

Teens looking for acting work can be overwhelmed at times. Let’s face it, there’s a lot going on. School, possibly casual jobs, hormones, relationships changing. It’s a difficult time, so if you throw some acting auditions in there too, it can be stress city. Casting for teens isn’t always a walk in the park, that’s why it’s important to know what to expect and do a few simple things to make life easier.

Here’s a few tips that can make it easy for teens to nail those auditions!

Preparation is the key

There’s probably nothing more important than preparation. Casting for teens is just like a job interview, and you wouldn’t turn up unprepared to one of those. Think of your director like your potential new boss. If possible, you should research what they’ve done before, because this might give you some insight into what they like to see from their teen actors.

You should also prepare for the specific role you’re auditioning for. It’s not just about memorising lines, although this is obviously important. Think about what you can bring to the character and how you want to present your version of the character.

Don’t be afraid to audition for younger roles

In the acting world, many actors end up playing younger roles. This is particularly common in the younger age groups because directors will favour an older, more experienced actor who can appear younger. However, as teens, you’re kind of stuck between taking young teen roles or older roles.

Older roles are often more demanding and may not be appropriate, depending on the production. Sticking with younger roles is not only more appropriate, but it also gives you more options and a better chance.

Worry about acting over looks

There is a lot of pressure on teenagers when it comes to looks. Peer pressure, social media influence – it all seems to conspire into a situation where teens are worried about their looks. But, take a look around on TV and in movies. There’s a popular misconception that acting is only for the so-called ‘beautiful people’. The fact is, the acting world has roles for absolutely any appearance type.

Furthermore, acting ability is far more important than looks. Let the makeup artists and costume designers worry about that while you bring the best acting you can to all casting for teens.

Find the best kids talent agency in Melbourne

At Casting Kids, we represent children from 6 months to 16 years, so if you’re looking for casting for teens in Australia, look no further. To find out more, contact us today.

Acting

Children’s Agents – Questions Answered

Posted on April 18, 2020August 1, 2020 by Casting Kids

18
Apr

Acting in Australia is a competitive business, and the same applies to kids and teenagers. There are plenty of people who would love to be actors, but there are only so many jobs out there. One of the best ways you can give your children an advantage is to find children’s agents. This gives you a foot in the door, so to speak, and also exposes your child to more audition opportunities.

However, we know that many parents have questions about how it all works, so int his article, we answer some of your questions!

How much do children’s agents cost?

Every agency is different, and will also charge differently. For example, at Casting Kids, we charge an annual membership fee. This covers everything including 12 months of exclusive representation a professional photo session and a personal profile on our website. We work tirelessly all year to put your child forward for potential auditions, so this is covered by the membership fee. Any money your child makes through acting in Australia is all yours.

Other agencies may charge a percentage of anything you earn; however, we feel an annual fee is more appropriate. We understand that parents who don’t see any evidence of us working for them won’t continue to be members. As such, an equal membership fee means we are always working just as hard for all of our members.

Does everyone get accepted?

In short, no they don’t. Part of the reason for that is the membership fee we discussed above. If we believe a child is unlikely to obtain work, we don’t feel comfortable charging an annual fee. As such, we only represent children who we believe have a good chance at finding work.

With that said, we actively promote diversity and equality, and we work with many children of all abilities including Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy and limb differences.

Is acting work guaranteed?

Signing up with children’s agents doesn’t guarantee work. Because we only represent children who we believe we can find acting work for, we heavily promote all of our kids wherever appropriate. However, the client ultimately decides who they hire.

Fortunately, we have a wide range of clients who trust our recommendations, so we would certainly expect to be inviting your child to attend several auditions.

Need help finding children’s agents in Australia?

We represent babies and children up to the age of 16. We’ve also got a great reputation in the industry, and we’re trusted by both our clients and our members alike. If you’d like to find out more about child acting in Australia, contact us today at Casting Kids.

Acting, Modelling

Is Your Child Ready for a Kids Talent Agency in Melbourne?

Posted on April 1, 2020August 1, 2020 by Casting Kids

01
Apr

When children show an interest in acting or modelling, it can be hard to know where to start as a parent. The best way to get going is with a kids talent agency in Melbourne, but how do you know if your child is ready? We’ve put together a few helpful pointers, because we believe all parents should be informed before joining a kids talent agency.

Make sure they really want to join a kids talent agency in Melbourne

It’s an unfortunate fact that sometimes, parents may nudge children towards something they don’t really want to do. Kids acting and modelling is a great way to earn some money, and this can influence some parents. Furthermore, it’s not always with bad intentions. Parents just want their kids to do something fun and express themselves.

However, this can sometimes result in registering with a kids talent agency in Melbourne when the child doesn’t really want to. Not all kids want to do acting or modelling in a more professional setting, and that’s certainly ok! If your little ones are happier dancing around the living room and performing for the family, the main thing is that they’re happy.

Does your child have a flair for performing?

When considering acting or modelling for your child, it’s important to consider if they have that flair. Some kids out there are quiet and more reserved, and there’s no problem with that! All kids are different, and that’s what makes each of them so great.

While many casting agencies are kind and compassionate, it is still a business. So, if your child doesn’t have that certain flair or attitude for acting and modelling, an agency may choose not to represent them. It’s important to consider this first, because it can be disheartening for kids.

If you’ve got a shy child who does want to express themselves a little more, it’s worth trying to enrol them in some classes first. It might be dance, or drama, or even sports where they can let their personalities out. These are much better ways to test the waters, rather than throw them straight into professional acting.

Don’t put pressure on your child

Most importantly, don’t put your child under pressure. Talk with them, and explain what a kids casting agency does. If they sound excited, that’s certainly a good sign. But if they don’t, that’s totally ok too.

This goes for your first meeting with the casting agency, and in fact any subsequent auditions. Kids should know that it’s supposed to be fun, and they’re allowed to be themselves and enjoy it.

Find the best kids talent agency in Melbourne

At Casting Kids, we’ve got a reputation for being professional and kind. While we don’t represent every child, we certainly do meet with all aspiring actors and models. We promote diversity and inclusion, representing children of all abilities. If you’d like to find out more about the best kids talent agency Melbourne has to offer, contact us today at Casting Kids.