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Acting, Blog, Modelling

Casting For Kids: What’s Involved?

Posted on January 11, 2021January 11, 2021 by Casting Kids

11
Jan

Many parents out there have probably thought about getting their sone or daughter involved in acting and modelling. Children love being the centre of attention, and some show more enthusiasm for performing than others. So, if you’ve got a youngster who has some flair and interest in performing, acting and modelling could be just the thing for them.

But how do you actually get children involved? Of course, they can get into drama at school, or even externally take some classes. But to actually get them into the industry, you’ll need to explore casting for kids. That’s the way they can really get their break, so here’s what you need to know.

Choosing a reputable child talent agency

Firstly, you need to seek out a reputable casting agency. Much like us here at Casting Kids, there are agencies who specialises in representing children and babies. However, as parents you naturally want to make sure your children are protected. That means finding an agency with a good reputation.

When choosing a casting agency, look for ones who show genuine care for their kids, and also ones who have a range of good clients.

Casting for kids: Meeting your casting agent

Once you’ve chosen a casting agent, you’ll attend a first meeting. This is usually so the agent can learn more about your child and your family. You’ll talk about goals, expectations, and the agent will decide whether they’d like to offer registration to your child.

Good casting agencies don’t register every child, because they want to be sure they can find work for the kids. A reputable agent will be honest and tell you if they’re not confident finding work for your child.

Referrals to casting directors

The next step is a referral to casting directors. This is where a company puts the call out to casting agencies, seeking suitable kids to audition. If your child fits a particular job, your agent will let you know that an audition will be coming up.

This referral process usually happens behind the scenes, and you might not be notified of every single referral. This is because ultimately the client has the final say on who they’d like to see. This is another reason you want to have confidence that your agency is truly representing your child well.

Attending auditions

If your child is lucky enough to be selected for an audition, that’s where the preparation begins. You’ll be given information about the client, the job and what’s expected at audition. Casting for kids is a fun process, and it’s important you and your child are relaxed. Generally, directors want to see your child’s personality shine. So, while there’s certainly a need to remember lines and be familiar with characters in some instances, mostly, it’s all about having fun.

Want the best casting for kids in Melbourne?

Here at Casting Kids, we represent children of all abilities from ages 6 months through to 16 years. Contact us at any time if you have questions, or to find out more about what we do here at Casting Kids.

Acting, Blog, Modelling

What to Expect from a Child Agency in Melbourne

Posted on December 1, 2020December 1, 2020 by Casting Kids

01
Dec

Whether it’s the acting bug that’s bitten your child or they want to get involved in modelling, you’ll need the help of a child agency in Melbourne. Agencies are there to help guide your child’s acting and modelling journey. However, not all agencies offer the great service you’d expect, so here are a few things you should know.

This is the bare minimum you should expect from any child agency in Melbourne. Before signing anything, make sure you’re getting value for money.

Meeting you and your child

Before anything else, your child agency should express an interest in getting to know you and your child. Unfortunately, acting and modelling isn’t for everyone, and a good agency will be a little selective in who they choose to register. This is because they don’t want to take your registration money if they don’t genuinely believe they can find work for your child.

Some agencies will gladly take your registration fees and send your child on auditions they’re unlikely to win. Reputable agencies don’t do this.

Professional photos and network listings

Most child agencies provide a professional photo shoot for your child to help get them started. This gives them something great for their portfolio, and also helps the agency represent your child to clients.

They will also provide a profile on relevant network websites. This might be internal for just their own clients, or external for outside marketing. Make sure you’re getting this type of professional service, because it shows good representation practices.

A child agency in Melbourne represents your child

Ultimately, once the formalities are out of the way, a child agency in Melbourne is there to represent your child. This usually means a client contacts the agency with a role, and asks for referrals. The agency scours their database and send suitable children’s profiles to the client. The client then chooses who they’d like to see for an audition, and your agency facilitates this.

Alternatively, many clients trust their agency to just send the right people. In this case, the agency selects the children and arranges auditions for them. It’s all about promoting your child in the most positive light, and giving them the best opportunities to succeed.

Advice for all things casting

In addition to the basic services you’d expect from a child agency in Melbourne, there’s one extra. Advice! Navigating the world of child acting and modelling can be difficult for people outside the industry. So, you should always feel comfortable asking your agency for advice.

Always choose a reputable child agency in Melbourne

Casting Kids has developed a great reputation over a number of years. We represent children from 6 months to 16 years, and have a strong focus on diversity. Casting Kids actively promotes children of all abilities, and clients trust us to deliver well-prepared, fun-loving child actors and models.

We pride ourselves on working hard to represent our kids, just like a god child agency Melbourne should. To find out more, contact us today at Casting Kids. Parents, children and clients all love our personalised, friendly and also professional service.

Acting, Blog, Modelling

How to Get Your Child Into Performing Arts

Posted on November 2, 2020November 2, 2020 by Casting Kids

02
Nov

Do you have a budding Oscar winner in your household? What about someone who wants to tread the boards on Broadway when they’re older. Maybe you’ve got the next pop music superstar under your roof. There are so many kids out there with huge personalities and love being the centre of attention. It could just be that they’ve got a career in the performing arts. But before you sign them up to kids talent agencies in Melbourne, there’s a few other things you can try.

Of course, navigating the world of acting, modelling and performing can be a little scary for parents. Especially if you don’t know where to turn. So, to make things a little easier, we’ve got some tips on how to get your children into performing arts.

Speak to your children’s school

Drama is always a big part of school life, because the creative side of children should always be encouraged. Even as part of their regular schooling, most children will be exposed to music, dance, public speaking, choir and drama. Most schools put on some kind of annual performance, and they even have smaller shows as part of special events.

If your child shows a knack for performing, have a chat to the school and find out what sort of opportunities are available.

Look for local performing and drama classes

Quite often, it’s a matter of learning to crawl before they can walk. Not all children can just walk onto a movie set or be the star of the school play. It takes a bit of work, and that’s why classes are great for kids of all ages. Kids talent agencies in Melbourne love hearing that your son or daughter already has some experience, so classes can be great for their ‘resume’.

The type of class all depends on your child’s interests, because some love dancing, others love singing and some want to be actors. Find the best class for their needs, and help them get started the right way.

Find kids talent agencies in Melbourne

Finally, if you feel like your child is ready to take on some paid acting or modelling work, you’ll need the best kids talent agencies in Melbourne on your side. Agencies represent your child, which means putting them forward for auditions and actively promoting them to clients. It’s a great way to get some real-life experience if they love acting or modelling. Plus, if they start getting work, a little extra money never hurts!

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 kids. We’ve got several trusted clients who rely on us to send our awesome kids along to auditions, so that’s what we do. We take our responsibility seriously as one of the leading kids talent agencies in Melbourne. If you’d like some help getting your child into acting or modelling, contact us today.

Blog, Modelling

Should You Choose a Child Modelling Agency with No Fees?

Posted on September 29, 2020September 29, 2020 by Casting Kids

29
Sep

When deciding which child’s talent agency you should approach for your children’s career, there’s a lot to think about. Firstly, and most importantly, your child’s safety and security are always the number one concerns. Secondly, you want to ensure the agency is reputable, with plenty of good clients and opportunities for work. You also want to know that they will represent your child fairly, and give them as much chance as their other registered kids.

Interestingly, the agency’s fee structure can play a major role in this last point. So, while a child modelling agency with no fees sounds fantastic, let’s take a look at what that really means.

Different types of fee structures

There are generally two types of fee structures for children’s agents. In fact, most talent agencies in any field have the same two fee structures.

Annual registration fee

Agencies will charge an annual registration fee. This usually includes professional photos, access to industry networks and of course, 12 months of representation. This means referring your child for suitable jobs and providing opportunities to attend auditions.

Percentage of earnings

You may have heard of agent/client relationships where the agent takes a ‘cut’ of earnings. This is usually on a percentage basis, and varies between industries. This fee structure also exists for children, and this is where you may be tempted by claims of a child modelling agency with no fees. In fact, there are fees when your child obtains work, just not a set annual amount.

How do child modelling agencies with no fees make any money?

As mentioned above, a child modelling agency with no upfront fees makes money by taking a percentage of their clients’ earnings. The percentage will vary between agencies, but this is precisely how they make most of their money. The main issue with this, is these types of agencies often attract large numbers of kids. They aren’t selective in who they register, because as long as they’re filling jobs for clients, they make money.

This type of fee structure also doesn’t encourage a fair representation of every child on their books. While all agencies need to be selective in who they send for specific jobs, more reputable agencies will only register and take fees from children they genuinely believe they can find work for. So-called no fee child modelling agencies register heaps of children, but they may only actively represent and promote certain registered children.

The benefits of a modelling agency with fees

When you pay an annual fee to a child modelling agency, you expect a return. If you don’t get a return, if your children aren’t sent for auditions or promoted for jobs, you’re unlikely to stay registered and pay for another year. Therefore, child modelling agencies with fees need to actively promote all children on their books. Without doing this, they lose registered children and likewise their main source of income.

As a result, agencies with annual fees are more motivated to share opportunities equally, and actively represent your child fairly. They will also be more selective about who they sign up, for this very reason.

If you’d like to know more about registering your child, please contact us at Casting Kids for our honest advice.

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, Blog

Looking for Baby Acting Auditions in Melbourne?

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

18
Mar

Many parents love the idea of their little ones doing some acting or modelling. If children have that certain flair, it can be great for their confidence and future. Also, the extra money doesn’t hurt! But what about baby acting auditions? Do you wonder if it’s too soon, or what age is appropriate to get children started?

Well, at Casting Kids we represent children up to age 16 – that includes babies! Many clients have a need for babies to appear in commercials, television shows and also print advertising. Here’s a few things you should know about baby acting auditions in Melbourne.

Where to find baby acting auditions in Melbourne

One of the easiest ways to find auditions is to link up with a reputable casting agency. Clients looking for baby actors will usually go to a casting agent they trust. This is because it’s too time consuming for them to audition the hundred that would apply from a social media ad.

Casting agencies register and represent your child, so if a client calls seeking baby actors, the agent will refer all suitable babies on their books. It streamlines the process for everyone, plus, as a parent, you have the support of knowing a casting agent has your back.

Meeting with a casting agency

Quality casting agencies will want to meet with you and your baby before signing up. This is because, unfortunately, not all babies and children have the right temperament for acting. If you book a meeting with a casting agent, the process should be relaxed and fun. However, you should prepare yourself for some honest feedback.

Depending on the fee structure, most reputable agencies will only sign the babies and children who they think they can genuinely find work for. They will charge a registration and annual fee which covers your representation for a year. As such, a good agency won’t take your money if they don’t think they can find work for your child.

Unfortunately, not everybody is suited for acting, and obviously babies in particular need to have the right temperament. So if a casting agent says no, it’s because they’re being honest and don’t want to take your registration fees for no reason.

Choose a child acting agency carefully

As we touched on, reputable casting agencies work a certain way. Other not so reputable ones will promise the world and charge you registration fees even if they never refer you for baby acting auditions in Melbourne.

All casting agencies should ant to meet you and your child first. If they allow you to sign up with just a picture and registration payment, chances are they’re not a good agency for you.

Find baby acting auditions in Melbourne today

We represent babies and children up to the age of 16. We offer professionalism to our actors and models, and also to our clients. That’s why so many clients love working with Casting Kids. If you’d like to find out more about baby acting auditions in Melbourne, contact us today at Casting Kids.

Blog, Modelling

What Do Child Modelling Agencies in Melbourne Do?

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

10
Mar

If your child is showing an interesting in modelling, you’re probably wondering if you need a child modelling agency. Well, the simple answer is ‘yes’. Most bigger clients such as department stores and popular retailers seek referrals from a modelling agency. This is easier for them, because they know they’re only auditioning children who have been pre-screened and deemed suitable.

So, what exactly do child modelling agencies in Melbourne do?

Meeting and Getting to Know Your Child

One of the most important things a modelling agency should do is get to know your child. It’s not all about a photograph, and it’s also not about what they’ve done before. A good casting agency will really get to know your child’s personality, their likes, dislikes, and also how they work in a modelling setting.

If you apply to a child modelling agency and they’re not really interested in you and your family, it’s time to look elsewhere. Likewise, if they only want a picture and short bio, they can’t really serve your child properly.

Referring Your Child for Modelling Work

Major clients will send requests through to trusted casting agencies whenever they have a need for child models. It’s much easier than advertising themselves, because they simply don’t have the time. For example, a sporting goods store may need some child models for an upcoming catalogue. It’s the modelling agency’s job to check their roster of registered models and refer those who would be best suited. If your child fits the client’s requirements, they should be referred for an opportunity.

Helping You Through the Casting Process

After being referred for a modelling job, the child modelling agency in Melbourne will be notified who the client wants to see. Your child may be asked to attend casting sessions. This is so the client can meet your child and also see how they work in front of the camera. It’s essentially an audition, and an opportunity for your child to strut their stuff!

Especially if you and your child are new to modelling, your casting agency should help you through the process. They may provide you with some tips and suggestions of what to wear, and also talk you through the casting session. You’ll also receive important details such as time, date, location and client contact.

What are the costs of joining a child modelling agency in Melbourne?

The costs of joining an agency will vary. Reputable agencies will charge an annual fee, which includes everything. This may include photo sessions, a profile on their website and also 12 months of representation.

If agencies are charging separate fees for referrals or other normal casting requirements, they are likely not the right agency for you.

The best child modelling agency in Melbourne is right here!

For the best child modelling agencies Melbourne has to offer, contact us today at Casting Kids. Parents, children and clients all love our personalised, friendly and also professional service.

Acting, Blog

Being Part of a Kids Movie Cast Melbourne – Things You Need to Know

Posted on March 4, 2020March 18, 2020 by Casting Kids

04
Mar

Has your child landed a role in a movie? Being part of a kids movie cast in Melbourne is a great stepping stone for all aspiring actors. However, as parents it can be a little daunting, especially if it’s the first time your youngster has been part of a production.

Most kids movie productions are aware there will be first-timers on set, and they also know how to run such productions. But you still want to make a great impression and see your kids have fun. So, here’s some things you should know to get the best out of your kids movie experience.

Keep your excitement under wraps

Many productions will ask actors and parents of actors to sign some form of confidentiality agreement. It’s quite common practice and doesn’t mean anything sinister. Basically, it means you need to keep production details to yourself. While it can certainly be tempting to let the world know your child has a role in a movie, it’s best to keep that excitement under wraps.

This means no posting on social media about the production and certainly no sharing of on-set photos. Most movies like to maintain an element of privacy, because it protects both the production and everyone involved.

Be ready to follow instructions

Most importantly, your child will need to be great at following instructions. Experienced directors certainly know what they’re doing. A kids movie cast in Melbourne requires a little more patience. However, most filming schedules are tight and the crew doesn’t have time to wait around.

We certainly recommend talking to your child before heading to set, because they need to know what to expect. Make sure they understand that when the crew need them to do something, it’s important they listen.

This also goes for the parents, or whoever is responsible for getting the children to the set. Punctuality is paramount, because when the crew is ready to shoot, everyone needs to be ready. There’s a lot of people relying on you, so being courteous and showing up on time is important.

Prepare for down-time in a kids movie cast

A movie with several child actors will normally have things in place to keep kids amused. Children need to be ready at all times, even if they’re only required for a few scenes. This can mean a lot of down-time on set.

Make sure you’re equipped to keep children occupied – it could be with schoolwork, books, toys – whatever works for your little one!

Want to join a kids movie cast in Melbourne?

The best way to get involved in a kid’s movie cast is to sign your child up with a reputable kids casting agency. At Casting Kids, we offer a personalised, friendly and also professional service that you’ll love. We’d also love to get to know your child, so contact us today!

Acting, Blog

Where Do You Find Auditions for Kids in Melbourne?

Posted on February 18, 2020February 18, 2020 by Casting Kids

18
Feb

So many parents struggle to find auditions for kids in Melbourne, even if their child is super keen to try acting. Many people also think it’s a really closed-off industry and impossible to get into. Well, here at Casting Kids we can certainly assure you that isn’t the case. In fact, there are plenty of opportunities out there if you know where to look.

Here are some ideas you can try if you’d like to find auditions for kids in Melbourne.

Use social media

Is there anything you can’t find on social media? People use it for so many different things, and finding auditions is no exception. It can take a bit of searching, but you can certainly find auditions and casting calls on social media.

When searching, make sure you follow any reputable companies you find along the way. This way, you can be notified in future and you’ll also be able to get in quickly. Social media is a great way to build your own little network, so use it to your advantage!

Join a reputable casting agency

Being registered with a casting agency is an excellent way to get exclusive access to auditions. Casting agencies work on your child’s behalf, putting them forward for auditions they think are suitable. This takes a lot of the hassle out of it from your end.

In addition, you’re also getting a shot at working for well established companies who use these casting agencies. To find out what to look for in a quality, reputable agency, read our blog here. Casting agencies often have a fee, but the rewards are certainly there because you’re not searching all around town for acting jobs. In a sense, they come to you!

Search online for auditions for kids in Melbourne

This one might be a no brainer, but searching online is an obvious way to find auditions. Casting calls are often advertised online, but you need to know where to look. Search classifieds, join child acting forums, and also try Google searches. Everything is there if you look hard enough. We do strongly suggest researching any company you apply to first though, because safety is paramount.

Find auditions for kids in Melbourne with Casting Kids

Casting Kids are always on the lookout for children with a bit of attitude and flair. We’re also strongly supportive of promoting differently abled kids who want to try their hands at acting. Diversity is important to us. Clients and parents trust us, because our reputation for professionalism has been built over many years. If you want to find auditions for kids in Melbourne, contact us today. We’d love to meet your family and see how we can help!

Blog, Modelling

Kids Model Casting Melbourne – Choosing the Right Clothes

Posted on February 11, 2020August 1, 2020 by Casting Kids

11
Feb

Thinking of taking your child to some kids modelling casting sessions in Melbourne? Of course, the biggest thing you’re probably asking yourself is: “What should they wear?” It’s a great question, because casting directors can often be pretty strict about what they’re looking for. Unlike acting auditions, there’s not usually a specific role to dress for. So, here’s a few simple tips to help your child catch the director’s eye!

Model casting Melbourne 101: Keep colours bright

We can’t stress enough that you should try to have your child wearing something bright. It doesn’t have to be outlandish, but bright colours catch they eye. Specifically, you want to stay away from solid white, red and also black. White can tend to wash out your child’s face, while red can ‘bleed’ on camera. Black – well, unless it’s for a gothic toddler’s fashion store, we’d say no.

By wearing something bright, it makes your child that little bit more memorable. Remember, there’s probably plenty of competition so you certainly want to stand out from them.

No logos or slogans

We generally would advise against brand name logos and also slogans. Colourful and bright is certainly great, as long as there’s no visible logos or other kinds of trademarked image. It also may not please your child a great deal, but the same goes for cartoon characters. As much as they might love their favourite superhero, it’s best to keep shirts free of any branding when it comes to kid’s model casting in Melbourne.

Dress age-appropriately

It probably goes without saying, but dressing age-appropriately is strongly advised. Remember, the casting call is for child models, not child models who look like adults. The casting directors want children of a certain age, so dressing them up to look older or younger won’t win you any points.

Record what your child wears to model casting in Melbourne

If your child is successful on getting a call-back, you’ll certainly want to go back in the same outfit. This is because something caught the director’s eye the first time, so you want to do it again. It also helps them remember exactly what they loved about your child the first time. So, keep a simple record of what your child wears to each casting, then you’ll never forget!

Make sure your child is comfortable

Most importantly, make sure your child is comfortable in what they’re wearing. We’ve all seen how kids fidget and tug and pull at clothes they don’t like. It’s not a great look in the middle of casting, so letting them choose from a few carefully selected options is a good idea.

The best kids model casting in Melbourne

If your child wants to have a go at modelling, contact us today at Casting Kids. Our professional team are waiting to meet you and your family. We offer a personalised, friendly service and can help your little models get their start!