Q: My children would like to get started in acting and modeling, but finding a local agent is proving difficult, and casting calls make me a bit skittish. What’s the best way to find true professionals in Atlanta when we are new to town? Even trying to get headshots with a good photographer is difficult because we don’t know where to start, out of fear of being taken advantage of.
—@MoreSoul1212, Backstage Community Forums*
The good news is that other than New York and Los Angeles, Atlanta is the best place to be, so you’re in a great market!
You shouldn’t be afraid of open castings; they can be great opportunities. Asking for personal information is pretty common on applications—I have them on mine for my open calls. It’s perfectly fine to leave stuff blank or strike it through, but you will need to provide it when you’re signed or book a job so taxes can legally be taken out.
For professional photographers, search via Google, Yelp, and Backstage’s Call Sheet specifically for headshot photographers. Be sure not to go to portrait photographers, as you won’t get what you need.
Once you have a selection of headshot photographers to choose from, go on their websites and review their pictures to find someone who really makes their subjects pop.
Another rule of thumb as far as photos is that as this is a minor child, they will change and mature in a year. Make sure your photographer provides three to four “looks” that can grow with your child for a couple of years in the final package. Otherwise, you’re paying $300–$500 a year for new headshots. Basically, make sure everything is clear and agreed upon before the session is set up.
As for agents, you can do your due diligence via the internet. But if they ask you for any money upfront, quickly move on to the next one.
*This question was originally asked and answered on the Backstage Community Forums. It has been edited for clarity.
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