Q:  Why do I have to pay for my photos?
Can't my mom just take my picture outside with my digital camera? I"m cute enough already!

A:  Although you may be cute, parents dont have the professional eye that a skilled photographer has to see your best angles, pose you properly, choose proper backrounds and lighting, and shoot the right "kind" of shots that are current in agencies.  Good photographers can capture the energy and sparkle in the eyes, as well as industry standard shots that are acceptable to agents.  Parents dont usually know what these things are, and having parents shoot your photos is just NOT a smart thing to do.  Your headshot is your business card and it represents you when you are marketed in the entertainment "biz".  It also represents your agency and their professional expertise, so must be acceptable to their high standards.  Your photo will proceed you in ALL auditions, and could make or break the chance to meet the next person in the decision making process, so skimping on this first impression is not recommended.  See our photographers we work with, at the websites below:

For headshots, see Carrie Cavalier:
www.cavalierphotography.com  
click on kids, celebrities, or headshots. 

For gorgeous soap stars, singers, and calendar models, see: www.jonabeytaphotography.com 

These are the best photographers in the business, and friends Tonia has worked with since the 80's in Hollywood.  They all work well together, and don't need instruction for your shoot.  Just tell them Tonia sent you!  Ask about photo days when group discounts are given at the "Academy".  Call:  661-951-7727

Q:  How much is an agent?  Why do I have to pay for photo copies if the agents like me?

A:  There is never a fee to be represented by an agent or manager, as they only work on commission. Agents and managers do NOT pay for your business cards, headshots, postcards, or travel expenses.  You are expected to provide marketing materials to your agent, such as photo sessions, resumes, multiple prints, and websites.  Agents expect you to be professional and work hard, respecting that they are doing the same for you. If you don't work, it's not the agent's fault, but should signal the client to go back to acting class, which is usually required by agents to continue representing you.  Learning about what is expected is part of our Academy program, so our clients get booked for jobs!  Parents who expect their adorable kids to be "signed" by agents, and have everything handed to them, are misguided and usually flagged as a problem. Knowing that ours is a business, not a lottery where you get "lucky" is the first step to success.  Hard work is what pays off, and it usually takes years to be "discovered" and end up on tv and in film.  Actors usually take classes during their entire career, working with voice coaches, dialect instructors, acting coaches, photographers, directors, and others.  Those who love the business know that it's just part of the job...and most love it.  If taking class is a chore, or not an enjoyable part of your week, then maybe our business will not be a good fit.  Patience is something we look for both in students and parents, and reality checks are needed often.

Q:  What does an agent or manager do?

A:  Agents work for you as a billing service, and set appointments...period!  Agents do not have the ability to influence casting or guarantee you will work.  Only the "talent"  (that's you) can do that by showing up on time, being professional, and knowing your job as an actor or model.
Managers work to develop skills, image, and develop marketing plans, for a successful career in the entertainment field, sometimes working with only one client.  Some actors/ models have both an agent and manager, but this is not required at the beginning.  Getting "signed" with an agent only means you have the ability to seek appointments, but nothing more.

If your agent sets job interviews for you, they bill clients, collect your money, and take 10-15% of money earned as their fee.  Managers will also take a commission (up to 25%), which is why new talent rarely start with both and agent and manager.  Commission is standard for agencies under SAG (union) contracts. Many people new to the business confuse agents, managers, and casting professionals into one single job description.  All of these positions require many years of expertise in their field, and often these professionals work together for the good of their mutual client, the "talent".  We, at the academy, are NOT talent agents, managers, or casting directors, and do not claim to offer jobs, postings, or represent clients as such.  We are happy to give you advice FREE, to explain how this process works, and help you get started.

Q:  Why do I need classes, and what guarantee do I get if I pay for them?

A:  There are no guarantees in LIFE!
All new models and actors need help learning the business, and perfecting the use of  their image, as well as skills used in casting and meetings. Our society is based on a quick-glance first impression, especially in the entertainment business...You have exactly 20 seconds to impress! 
Your image and first impression are the most important thing considered at job interviews, auditions, or even a dance at school.  Don't BLOW it!  Next, your talent and ability to convey that talent, will get a job booking. Only that talented performer can guarantee work, NOT your agent, manager, or photographer.  All jobs in this business are by audition, so knowing what to do is just as important as having a great photo or look!

CONFIDENCE TRAINING:
No matter what your reason, paying for classes to improve yourself is NEVER a bad investment!  Many parents spend money on lessons in dance, karate, gymnastics, music, and sports, yet balk at spending for classes in self esteem.  Confidence has no price tag!
Our director,  Tonia, believes ALL teens need guidance in manners, etiquette and appropriate social skills.  She and her team are proud to have helped thousands of teens in the past 18 years, and it's been very rewarding for our staff to see these young people grow up well schooled, polite, poised, and  valuable members of our society.  Some will stay in the entertainment business, and some go on to own companies, become leaders, and make a difference in the world.  Whatever your choice, being a graduate of our program is a rewarding, fun, fantastic way to open doors to your own future....wherever it may take you.