Category Archives: Blog

Acting, Blog

The Importance of Networking at Acting Auditions in Melbourne

Posted on by Casting Kids
acting auditions melbourne
25
Apr

If your child is interested in acting, it won’t be long until you start attending auditions with them. Acting auditions in Melbourne are an exciting time, but it’s also a time to conduct some business. Networking during auditions is crucial for actors, and in the case of child actors, for their parents too. Here’s why networking at acting auditions in Melbourne is so important.

What is networking?

Networking is the process of building relationships with people who can help you in your career. It’s about providing value to others and getting what you want in return. You won’t find networking in many school curriculums, so it’s a skill you need to learn for yourself. In the acting industry, networking is a great way to build contacts and set your child up for future success.

Why is networking essential for actors?

Networking is an essential part of being an actor, but it can be difficult to know how to go about it. Here are a few reasons why networking is so important:

  • It helps you connect with other people in the industry and build relationships with those who have experience working in it. This includes directors, casting agents and producers as well as actors themselves. You never know when they may be able to help in the future.
  • Networking allows you to find out about auditions before they even happen. This means you don’t need to rush, and you can help your child be better prepared.  
  • Building up your reputation through networking means that you’ll be recognised at future auditions. It might be a small thing, but some familiarity goes a long way in the acting industry.

How do you network as an actor?

When you’re networking as an actor, it’s important to remember that you’re not just there to promote yourself. You’re also there to learn about others and help them out in any way that you can.

Make sure that when people speak with you at the event, they feel comfortable sharing their experiences with acting and their stories from auditions or on set. Networking is a two-way street, so make sure you show interest in others. It’s not just about how someone can help you, but how your relationship can be mutually beneficial. Ultimately, networking is just talking to people, being friendly and making sure you’re remembered.

Networking at acting auditions in Melbourne also builds a support network

Networking isn’t just about getting the job. In fact, most networking won’t benefit you immediately. But it does help to build a support network around yourself. Whether it’s casting directors you’ll see regularly, or even just parents with more experience. Plus, in the acting world, you will be working with many different people and having to collaborate on projects. Networking allows you to get to know these people better so that when it comes time to work together on a project, there is already an established trust between all parties involved.

If you’d like to get more auditions and build a stronger network around you, the best place to start is a kid’s acting agency. Casting Kids is here to support your child’s acting journey, so contact us today.

Blog, Modelling

5 Common Misconceptions About Kids Modelling

Posted on by Casting Kids
kids modelling melbourne
15
Apr

Children’s modelling is a growing industry and with the rise of social media, it’s become easier to get into. While it’s true that there are many misconceptions about child modelling, it doesn’t mean that you should avoid doing it. In fact, if you’re interested in pursuing this career path for your children, here are five common misconceptions that we’d like to address.

Kids modelling is easy

Many people think that modelling is easy, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Modelling is a lot of work, and it’s definitely not easy. It requires discipline and focus to be able to sit still for long periods of time in front of the camera. Kids are constantly moving, which means they’re not always going to be able to hold a pose or give the expression required. If your child is keen on modelling, they need to have a good temperament and be willing to work hard.

Kids modelling jobs are dangerous

We’ve all heard the horror stories of child stars in the US being subjected to dangerous conditions. Unfortunately, this misconception permeates the acting and modelling world, and there is some truth to it. Kids modelling is just like any industry that’s full of mostly good people, with a few who ruin it for others.

The reality is, you as a parent always have the final say over what your child can do on a modelling job. If you’re not comfortable with a person or situation, you can remove your child. But it’s also important not to go into modelling thinking that everybody does the wrong thing. Because when you work with a reputable kids modelling agency and great clients, the risks are extremely low.

Kids modelling is all about looks

You may think that modelling is all about looks, but that’s a very deceiving concept. Of course, a certain look is important, but every job requires a different look. There is no set definition of what a child should look like for modelling. Looks definitely aren’t’ everything, especially where children’s modelling is concerned. It’s more about having the right temperament and personality.

Every child can be a model

Kids modelling is certainly available for everybody to try, but there are no guarantees. Here at Casting Kids, for example, we’re fully inclusive and represent children with all abilities. But only if we genuinely believe we can find opportunities for your child. For example, if a child doesn’t have the right temperament to take directions in front of a camera, they may not be suitable, and we won’t take your registration fees if we don’t think we can help.

Modelling isn’t easy, so it’s important not to get a child’s hopes up when you first visit a modelling agency.

All child models end up as adult models

Doing some modelling as a child doesn’t mean that you’ll end up as a model forever. Sure, some love the industry and excel in it. But others do it for a while as kids, and then move on to other things in life. There are definitely careers available for those who are interested, but just because your child does some modelling, it doesn’t mean they can only ever be models. Your kids can grow up to be whatever they want!

If you’d like to get your child started with a career in modelling, contact us at Casting Kids today. We’re your trusted kids modelling agency in Melbourne.

Acting, Blog

How to Become a Child Actor in Australia

Posted on by Casting Kids
How to Become a Child Actor in Australia
23
Mar

Build your resume

Build a resume that is easy to read. Include your name, phone number, email address and address in the top left corner of the page. Include acting experience and education on your resume. If you have been in any shows or commercials before, list them here along with any awards won for acting. List any special skills such as dancing or singing as well if they apply to what you want to do professionally as an actor.

Get the right training

The next step is to get the right training. You will need to learn how to act, sing and dance and improve your voice and speech. A good drama school will teach these skills in a fun way and make them easier for you to pick up as well as help build confidence in yourself.

A good drama school will also teach public speaking so that when it comes time for auditions you can deliver a great performance on stage or in front of the camera no matter how nervous you may feel at first.

Have professional photos taken

Look for a photographer who has experience working with children. Headshots are part of the process, so it’s important to have these. Photos help clients to identify whether you have the right look for their commercial or another acting role. If you’re going to join a talent agency, you can hold off on this suggestion though. That’s because reputable child talent agencies usually include professional photos. It’s all part of how to become a child actor in Australia.

Get an agent

Agents are the people who represent actors and actresses, helping them find work in projects as well as negotiate their contracts with producers. If you don’t have an agent representing your interests, it can be difficult for producers who are looking for new talent to find out about your skillset. Look for a reputable child agency like Casting Kids, and half your work is done!

Need help with how to become a child actor in Australia?

Casting Kids has been representing children from babies through to 16 years old for more than a decade. As a fully inclusive casting agency, we work with all children of all abilities. If your child wants to get into the entertainment industry, we would love to meet them. We like to meet all of our children and families so that we can understand their goals and interests and help them reach their full potential as actors. It is our goal as an agency to provide a safe, fun and enjoyable experience for every child who joins us whether they are professional actors or just starting out.

For the best child acting agency in Melbourne, contact Casting Kids today and find out how we can help.

Blog, Modelling

How to Become a Model in Melbourne

Posted on by Casting Kids
how to become a model in melbourne
09
Mar

We all know that kids are cute, but did you know that some of them can make a living from it? Child modelling is an industry that has grown in popularity over the past few years, with more and more children getting jobs to be paid models. If your child has a good sense of style and wants to build their portfolio as a model, here’s how you can help them get started.

Join a reputable child modelling agency

Firstly, you want to research the companies that hire child models. Find out what they do and how they work. Ask them about their experience in the industry, and ask for references from other parents who have worked with them. Ask about their reputation in the community, as well as any awards or recognition they’ve earned over time.

As with any career, it’s important to find a reputable agency that has your best interests in mind and can help you achieve your goals. Look for an agency that is licensed and has a good reputation for finding work for their models. You should also consider whether or not the agency matches your child’s interests (such as modelling or acting).

Become familiar with the industry

Before getting your child involved with modelling it’s important to understand the industry. As a parent, you want to know that jobs are safe for your child. You also don’t want them getting into an industry that could be dangerous.

Ultimately, it’s your choice to allow your child to model or not. But when you learn more about the industry and how to protect your child, you can both have a great time working in the industry!

Ensure your child has fun while learning how to become a model in Melbourne

In order to ensure that your child has fun while learning to model, it’s important that you don’t push them too hard. If they are not enjoying the experience, they will not want to continue with it. It is also important not to overwork your child or make them feel bad about themselves. We’ve all heard horror stories about parents living vicariously through their children, and you should avoid this at all costs. It only serves to damage your children, or at the very least, spoil their fun while modelling.

Help your child develop listening skills

The ability to listen is an essential skill for any child model, as it helps them absorb instructions. Children are often told what to do or how to look, and they need to take this direction. So, help your kids to develop good listening skills from a young age.

Need help with how to become a model in Melbourne?

Passionate about finding the right job for your child, Casting Kids is a top modelling agency in Melbourne. Our dedicated talent agents work hard to find the right jobs for your child and promote your child’s skills.

Casting Kids is committed to personalised service and has a strong focus on inclusivity and diversity. Our boutique agency offers friendly, professional representation to all children between the ages of 0 to 16 years old. So, when you are considering a modelling agency for kids, contact Casting Kids today to find out more about our talent services.

Blog, Modelling

Why are Teenage Modelling Agencies in Melbourne Important?

Posted on by Casting Kids
teenage modelling agencies melbourne casting for teens
16
Feb

Teenagers are no longer just teens. They can be models, too! So what do teenage modelling agencies in Melbourne do? More importantly, why are they a crucial part of your teen’s modelling journey?

Teenage modelling agencies in Melbourne offer a range of services

As a teenager, the best way to get started in the modelling industry is to work with an agency. A teenage modelling agency helps you build up your portfolio and prepare for your first audition. They also provide guidance on how to get noticed on social media. They’ll help develop your professional attitude and work ethic, so that when it comes time for an actual audition or shoot, you’re ready!

Booking work with high-quality clients

There are plenty of jobs available, but they’re not all lucrative. One of the most common types of work is print advertising. Here, you’re photographed in front of a camera or using green screen technology. Teenage models are also hired by companies to promote their products online through social media and other online platforms, such as YouTube channels or blogs.

If you have experience acting in theatre productions or on TV shows or movies, then your teenage modelling agency may also book you for these kinds of jobs.

Building a lasting relationship with models

As a model, you will want to build a lasting relationship with your agency. You need to be confident that your modelling agency will look after you and help develop your career. Ideally, the agent should develop a relationship with the model and parents. This personalised service gives you confidence that you’ve chosen a reputable agency.

Build a portfolio and prepare for auditions

A modelling portfolio is a collection of pictures that show off your best looks. They are used when applying for jobs. The first step in building up your portfolio is getting some professional photos. Your agency fee often includes photos.

In addition, your modelling agency should help you prepare for auditions. More experienced models may not need help, but it’s daunting the first time. So, your agency should give you advice, tips and encouragement when your first audition arrives. They may also be able to provide more detailed advice and feedback if you miss a few jobs.

Looking for reliable teenage modelling agencies in Melbourne?

Casting Kids has a reputation for being an inclusive, supportive and caring child talent agency. Our clients trust us to find the very best child models in Melbourne. We continue to promote diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry and we pride ourselves on getting to know all of the children and families we represent. Contact us today and find out how we can help.

Blog, Modelling

Finding Quality Melbourne Modelling Agencies

Posted on by Casting Kids
melbourne modelling agencies
15
Dec

Are you looking for Melbourne modelling agencies that can truly help your child’s career? Here are some tips for finding the right one.

Ask about the client list

Every modelling agency has a client list that they work with regularly. This is the list of businesses that use the agency to source models. For example, some of the bigger names on our client list include Big W, Mazda, Bonds, Target, Kmart and many more. Other agencies may only work with boutique clients, which is totally fine too, however, they may not be able to offer as many auditions.

If the agency you’re considering is vague about its client list, or they simply don’t have many clients, it may not represent the best value for you or your child.

Attend an initial meeting

Most Melbourne modelling agencies want to meet their models before signing up. This is ultimately to ensure the child is a good fit for the agency, and vice versa. While it’s quite convenient to do everything online, at the very least you should expect to be offered an initial meeting via video link.

These first meetings are a great way to use your gut feel. Not every decision needs to be backed up by facts and figures. So, you’ll know if an agency feels supportive, friendly, reliable and professional. If you don’t get good vibes from the initial meeting, it’s probably best to try elsewhere.

How much do Melbourne modelling agencies charge?

Typically, you have two choices when it comes to paying for the services of a Melbourne modelling agency. Well, when we say choice, every agency has different payment structures but there are usually two types.

Firstly, you can pay a percentage fee. So, for any income your child makes, your agency will take a percentage. While this seems like a fair process, there is one glaring issue with it. This type of fee structure means that agencies get paid whether they refer your child or not. It creates a temptation to only send the most experienced child models to auditions.

Alternatively, some agencies, like Casting Kids, use an annual fee. This means you pay the same amount each year for 12 months of representation and other benefits. We feel this is the fairest system because it encourages us to refer all suitable children for auditions. As a parent, if your child isn’t getting auditions, you’re unlikely to keep paying the annual fees year after year.

Does the agency guarantee work?

This tip can be a bit of a minefield, to be honest. Some agencies guarantee they can find modelling work for your child. This sounds amazing, and if true, then you’ve found a great one. But the reality is, casting agencies can’t guarantee work. The agency’s clients make the final call on who gets a modelling job, based on auditions and other factors.

So, a reputable agency doesn’t really guarantee success, because they know it’s not possible. What they can guarantee is the proper representation and plenty of referrals to auditions.

Looking for reliable Melbourne modelling agencies?

If you’d like to help your child start a career in modelling, Casting Kids is the smart choice. We’re fully inclusive, supportive and give your child the opportunities he or she needs. Contact us today to find out more.

Acting, Blog

Preparing for Acting Auditions: A Guide

Posted on by Casting Kids
acting auditions
01
Dec

If your child is starting a career in acting, one certainty is the need to attend auditions. Casting directors typically hold auditions for all types of acting jobs, because they need to see how potential actors take direction, how their personality radiates on screen and much more. Assuming your child is enthusiastic about acting, they’re probably no stranger to performing in front of people. But singing and dancing for family and friends is a lot different than attending acting auditions.

This guide will give you some tips on how to help your child prepare for auditions.

Different ages

Before we dive in, it’s important to note that the requirements for acting auditions will naturally vary depending on the child’s age. For babies and toddlers, they naturally won’t be speaking lines or even following any complex directions. However, as children get older, the expectations are a little higher.

For the purpose of the tips below, we’re going to assume your child is above the age of 6, and therefore should be able to take some direction and speak in front of people with confidence.

Getting the look

As much as we’re told that appearance isn’t everything, in the acting world there are certain standards to be met. For child actors it’s not always about facial features or beauty, but rather about having a look that suits a certain role.

Generally, you’ll be given some information before the audition, specifically about the role and what the directors are looking for. All auditions are different, of course, but if you do get some valuable ‘character’ information, it’s best to use it.

For example, if the job calls for a child to be playing on the beach, you’ll want your child to dress in beach-appropriate clothes. It’s more about overall appearance than just physical characteristics.

Learning lines

It really depends on the type of acting role as to whether your child will be required to perform lines. However, even if it’s a commercial with no speaking role, the directors may still want to see your child perform a line or two. This helps them assess suitability and of course, the ability to take direction.


So, if you’re given any lines before the audition, make sure your child practices them. In these cases, it’s best to make the practice a lot of fun. Help your child learn the lines, but also let their own personality shine through. This is what directors are usually looking for.

Practice acting auditions

Like anything in life, preparation for acting auditions is crucial. It may seem like overkill, especially when children are concerned, but why not make the entire process fun by holding a mock audition at home? You can play the role of casting director and your child can perform as instructed. It’s a bit of fun for them, but it also helps with any nerves they might experience when the real audition comes along.

Looking for acting auditions for kids?

If you’d like to discuss the first steps in your child’s acting career, Casting Kids is here to help. We represent children from ages 0 to 16, and we’re a fully inclusive casting agency. Contact us today to find out more.

Acting, Blog, Modelling

How Do Children’s Agents Find Work for Your Child?

Posted on by Casting Kids
children's agents
21
Oct

If you’ve got a youngster who loves performing, then you’ve probably considered getting them an agent. This makes sense because the entertainment industry can be difficult to navigate if you’ve never been involved before. You’ll have more success finding acting and modelling jobs with the help of children’s agents. But how exactly does an agent help your child? Let’s look further into what you should know before hiring an agent.

How much does an agent cost?

Before we get too far into things, you should consider the cost of an agent. However, a low cost (or even no cost) is not always the best way to go. Most children’s agents charge some kind of fee. For example, at Casting Kids, we charge a $450 annual registration fee. This covers professional photography, a profile on Casting Networks and of course, 12 months of representation from your agent.

We choose to operate with an annual fee because it motivates us to work hard for ALL of our kids, not just the ones who get the most work. Some agencies might charge no upfront fees but take a percentage of earnings. This works in some cases, but it does mean the agent is likely to invest more time into the most successful children.

How do children’s agents find work?

Typically, the most common way for you to find work through an agent is by attending auditions. Your agent will let you know that there’s an audition coming up, and they can refer your child if they’re deemed suitable. This is the usual way that people find work through an agent.

In terms of where these auditions come from, it’s usually through regular clients. So, your children’s agency will have a list of regular clients they work with. Those clients contact the agent to advise they’re shooting a commercial or running auditions for a TV show (or whatever the job might be). It’s then up to the agent to determine which children on their roster are suited to attend an audition.

For this reason, you’ll want to choose an agent with a strong client list. Here at Casting Kids, our clients include quality brands and companies such as Bonds, Target, Myer, Cotton On, Village Cinemas, Country Road and many, many more. This is how we provide regular opportunities for the children we represent.

Do children’s agents guarantee work?

Unfortunately, there is never a guarantee of work. It’s our commitment to represent all children fairly and equally. But the final call on acting and modelling jobs is made by the client. More specifically, the casting director who runs the auditions. So, while we provide plenty of audition opportunities, we can’t guarantee your child will be successful.

Looking for an agency to help your child’s career?

Here at Casting Kids, we represent children from ages 0-16, and we’re a fully inclusive agency. That means representing children of all abilities and promoting diversity within the entertainment industry. We treat all of our children and their families with honesty and respect. If you’re ready to start your child’s acting or modelling journey, contact us today.

Acting, Blog, Modelling

How Much Do Children’s Agents Cost?

Posted on by Casting Kids
children's agents
10
Aug

When you’re looking for children’s agents to represent your young one, one of the most common questions is about the cost. There are usually two different fee types that you’ll find when it comes to agents. Both have their positives and negatives, but let’s take a closer look and see how they work. Here are the different costs for hiring children’s agents.

Commission

One way that agents organise their fee structure is with a commission. This means that there are no costs associated with joining the children’s agency. However, if your child secures work, you’d be required to pay a percentage to the agent.

This is quite a common fee structure, and the amount can range from 10% – 20% depending on the agent. In some ways, this is a fair arrangement because as a parent, you only pay for an agent’s services if your child earns income.

On the downside, it means an agency can essentially represent hundreds and hundreds of kids, but only put effort into finding work for the children they think are most likely to earn money.

Children’s agents registration fees

Another way to structure fees is by charging a registration fee. Here at Casting Kids, we prefer this option. We set a standard registration fee of $395 per year. This helps to pay for professional photo shoots, a profile on professional networks and 12 months of representation.

We prefer this because it still gives us a level of control over who we represent. Not everybody can register, and we only take children on if we think we can really find work for them. This way, we work equally as hard for all of our kids. If parents don’t see any results, they won’t register for another year.

So, agencies that charge a registration fee have to work hard for their clients, otherwise, they won’t generate an income.

Which is best?

It really comes down to personal preference. Each system has its pros and cons. We’ve outlined why we prefer a registration fee structure. We feel that it’s better for parents and children, while also keeping us motivated to put all of our children forward for appropriate jobs. It also ensures there are equal funds dedicated to things like photoshoots.

Ultimately, it’s a parent’s choice and in the end, it probably isn’t even the biggest concern. More important is feeling that you’re well represented and that you have a good rapport with the agent. You need to feel confident that they have the relevant industry connections and clients that you’d want your child working for.

While some may argue against registration fees, you generally get what you pay for when something is free.

Looking for the best children’s agents in Melbourne?

If you want high-quality representations from children’s agents who really care about your child’s future, look no further. Casting Kids has been representing children of all ages from 0-16 for many years now. We’ve built an impressive list of clients and we’ve had great success in finding regular work for our dedicated, hard-working kids. To find out more, contact us at Casting Kids today.

Register your Child Now
Blog, Modelling

What Age for Babies Modelling Agencies?

Posted on by Craig
babies modelling
26
Jul

Babies modelling can be a tricky world to navigate, especially if you’re new to the industry. Fortunately, here at Casting Kids we’ve had years and years of experience working with children of all ages. One of the questions we get asked is when can children start modelling?

We represent babies from 6 months old, so children can definitely start young. Many parents get their children into modelling from a young age because it’s a great way to earn some extra money to help with school fees.  

Here’s what you should know about babies modelling.

What do casting directors expect?

If you’ve signed up with a reputable agency like Casting Kids, you should start getting some audition opportunities. However, auditions for babies are a bit different than they are for older kids and adults. In more professional settings, there’s an expectation that the children know what they’re doing, at least to an extent.

With babies, there are virtually no expectations. During a casting call for babies, the director really just wants to see if they have the right temperament. Admittedly, with babies that can be a little hit and miss. Just make sure your baby is as relaxed as possible.

What types of jobs are available?

It’s a bit like asking how long is a piece of string. Sometimes there is an influx of clients wanting babies to appear in print media, online advertisements or even video advertising. Basically, any time you see a baby in any form of advertising, they’ve likely been through a child acting or modelling agency.

So, really the sky is the limit. Your baby could appear in online photos to advertise clothing or toys. They could appear in department store catalogues. Sometimes babies are used in television commercials, too. Ultimately, it will be up to your casting agency to decide whether they refer your child for an audition or not. However, unless there are some specific criteria involved, your baby should be eligible for most parts.

How to prepare

Honestly, there’s very little preparation for babies modelling auditions. Obviously, they don’t need to perform lines, and they don’t even really need to follow instructions. In many ways, it’s just about your baby being happy, having fun, and getting photos taken at the right moment.

So, if you get an audition for your baby. Just try to keep everything normal, keep them relaxed and happy, and be ready to help the casting director. In a lot of ways, you’ll probably end up following more directions than your child will!

Looking for the best babies modelling agency?

Casting Kids has years of experience in the industry. We have a healthy list of great clients, and also an excellent group of children we represent. Casting Kids represents children from 6 months old to the age of 16. So, if you’d like to get your baby into modelling, we’re the crew to talk to! We love meeting new families, and if we think we can find work for your little one, you can register straight away! Contact Casting Kids today to find out how we can help.