After working with hundreds of modeling and talent agencies all over the world I have found that the often publized statement that agencies will pay for your photos and training if they like you is in most cases not true.

Most agencies require you to pay for your headshots, composite cards, zed cards, head books, and photo shoots. Some huge agencies in the top 5 markets in the world may possibly loan money to very promising newcomers but rest assured they will collect and often with profit with interest.

Sometimes the huge Agencies in the biggest cities will line up test shoots for you but if it is a really good photographer they will charge you $100-$400 just for the shoot. The best usually do not work for free. Some new photographers will do free tests but it is usually a waist of your time if you want to use them as a professional marketing tool against top notch competition. Test shoots should usually be used to gain more experience and add to your portfolio if they are good.

To the people that make a successful day to day living in the professional Modeling and Acting industry is treated as a business. Agencies that have an enduring successful track record do not pay for upfront fees for new talent because there is no guarantee the model or actor will be profitable or that the model or actor will even follow through. They do not know for sure if the talent has all the various attributes it takes to be profitable example, (are they photogenic, intelligent, persistent, punctual, loyal, engaging and willing to accept rejection).  

If you don't have or do not want to invest the required capital it is almost impossible to become a professional model or actor. Most agencies will not be in business long if the agency fronts hundreds even thousands of dollars to each talent. Often the talent either decides not to pursue the business after a few try’s or does not work hard at being a great talent because they have nothing to lose. Some talent after getting their photos and portfolio paid for, then decide to jump to a competing agency. It is too risky for an agency to gamble like that.

Modeling and Acting is more than just taking photos and a few classes, you have to learn the "business" of this industry. You can't call yourself a model or actor without knowing the business and doing the "real" work, which encompasses knowing how to book a paying job.

Being a smart talent though can make the process much easier and economical. When you sign with an agent make sure you do not pay a fee for them to promote you. You should only pay them a commission when you book a paying job. Do not pay exorbitant fees for photos, cards, portfolios etc. Do not pay exorbitant fees for training. Make sure the agency has a proven history of successfully booking jobs, realize it is a tough business and if an agency makes big promises they are usually after something (many times it is your money).

The talent industry has many honest, upstanding agents, models and actors but like with everything else in life there are a few people that take advantage of inexperienced people. Have a fun rewarding experience but be smart!

For more modeling and acting advice go to

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Why being represented by a Modeling or Talent Agency is much better than being independent

When an Advertising Agency, Photographer, Graphic Design, Casting Director or Corporation needs a model, the easiest thing for them to do is to pick up the phone and call a Modeling or Talent Agency. The client knows that they will be getting real, professional models and may be willing to pay you top dollar. They also know that they’ll have to deal with the future usage issue which is good for you as a model. Rates can be doubled and tripled depending on the time and location of usage of the job.

Models often come and go. For a client using freelance or independent models, keeping track of who is available to model is just too big a burden for most companies to deal with.  Instead of making one or two calls they have to advertise and deal with dozens if not hundreds of prospective models not knowing the experience level and reputation of the talent they are dealing with. Rather than going to all that trouble, they just depend on the professionals to do their legwork for them, the Modeling Agency. 

Many clients, like the rest of us, like to spend as little money as possible. Many modeling gigs may be for a surprisingly short period of time.  Clients will try to hire models for an hour at a time. Modeling agencies will try to keep that to a minimum by demanding a minimum fee and time period from their clients, usually, 2 -4 hours.  That’s another reason that Modeling Agencies are worth their commission alone.

I have witnessed hundreds of times models not represented making 80-90 percent less money because the clients know they are vulnerable. Paying your agency 10-20 percent commission and making sure you actually are paid is a much better route to take. Plus the agency has often thousands of potential clients they can promote you to.

If you have questions or need further advice call Craze Agency at 801-438-0067 or go to http://www.crazeagency.org

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When you audition for Modeling or Acting what to bring and expect

• Extra stapled  photo/resumes
• Date and Time
• Audition Address
• Directions
• Contact Names (the casting director’s name and/or the person you’ll be asking for upon arrival)
• Type of clothing to wear (Wardrobe)
• Name of the Project or Product
• What are they looking for (character description)
• Bring your sides if applicable and practice your lines
• Be Punctual-Ten minutes is good, 30 minutes is too early.
• Be Polite- Greet client with direct eye contact, a hand shake and a smile.  “Hello, my name is___________________, nice to meet you!”
• Be Prepared -Know the material and practice.
• Be Positive -Keep a positive attitude, even if you don’t get the job.  Getting an audition already means you have been selected out of hundreds of potential talent for an interview.
• Patients

Do not bring others to the auditions.  If you must bring another child, bring someone to help or toys/books to keep the child busy and distracted from causing a disruption.

If the casting director gives you a “callback,” remember to wear the same clothing and hair style.

How often will I expect to be called for an audition?

It really varies!!!
Before you start complaining to your agent that they are not getting you out enough, consider the climate of the industry.  How strong is the dollar, does everyone seem to be filming abroad?  How big is the market we live in? What time of year is it?  How busy is the market we live in.
Summer usually picks up because of the weather and people are out of school. It also tends to get busy around the second week of January for at least a month. If you are really good and versatile you can audition at several times a month if not much more.

For more information call us at 801-438-0067 or go to http://www.crazeagency.org

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 Modeling and Acting advice.

Models and Actor don’t get psyched out yourself before, during or after the audition or casting call. Follow these steps and you will get book more jobs.

After promoting excellent models and actors for over 25 years at the Craze Agency, I have witness many otherwise excellent models and actors damper their chances of landing the job or having a successful career.

Many times they don’t even know they do it until it is too late.

Here is a list of things models and actors do and the solution to their problems.

1-Worrying too much about things you cannot control. Often there will be many types of other talent auditioning, some better looking, some skinnier, some with more experience etc. You never know exactly what they want so you just have to go in with the attitude you are confident, professional and the best choice for the job.

2-You think you are prepared for the casting, and then when you audition it does not go the way you envisioned or you blow the audition. Auditioning for strangers and people who actually make the decisions is totally different than preparing in the comfort of your own home and for friends and family. You need to constantly be testing yourself in different settings and situations.  A pro can adapt comfortably no matter who or what the situation is.

3-You are not properly prepared or informed for your audition. There is a lot more too being a great model or actor than genetics and talent. If you are not 100 percent confident, educated and prepared you probably will be turned away. Remember paying clients look at this as a business and they hire people that are ready and can make their investment profitable.

4-Some models or actors get discourage because the client doesn’t seem interested in them at one particular casting. Sometimes the client is interested in you but they have a lot on their mind. Sometimes they are not interested but the next client could be the one that helps you become a star. Everyone has different tastes and needs so stick with it and have a tough skin.

5-You become overwhelmed by nerves and the situation.  Often nerves are a direct result of inexperience and the unknown. Talents often over analyze the situation, placing too much importance on this one particular audition which creates panic in you. Get a respected coach and practice the correct things over and over again. Being photogenic besides being nice looking, is moving correctly, knowing different poses, listening to the photographer and understanding how you look in front of the camera. For actors there are so many variables you need to work with someone who understands these and can give you the knowledge and confidence.

6-Beating yourself up after the casting call if you do not land the job or receive a callback. Be proud that you first were called for the audition. Many times the client is selective on who and how many people they see. There are so many outside unknown factors that go into each casting that I have witnessed numerous accounts of models and actors going on well over ten  failed auditions and getting so discouraged, then the next audition they go on they get the booking and make great money, have a blast and their career gets moving quickly. You just never really know, even the biggest stars had a bumpy road to the top. Enjoy the journey and good things will come!

If you have more questions call Craze Modeling and Talent Agency at 801-438-0067 or go to http://www.crazeagency.org

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How to Get Hired When Seeking Modeling Jobs

In the competitive landscape of acting and modeling, it can be difficult to get your break. Here are some of the most important tips that clients look for when booking talent for paid speaking roles or modeling assignments

Polish. The talent must be polished and confident enough to do the job with little or no direction if needed.

Experience. Does your portfolio or resume show you have worked and trained successfully in the past?

Make a good first impression. Often they have to make a hiring decision within 30 to 60 seconds. If they cast you and they have not worked with you before they are taking an educated risk. A good impression is made by being early, prepared, looking like a professional and having amazing charisma!

Think quickly. Can you think quick on your feet? Sign of an experienced professional. Can you make the adjustments they ask for?

Provide financial value. Are you worth the money they are paying? If the client is going to pay a rate of $400-$1500 a day, you must show them you are worth it. They have to account for every dollar spent.

Be original. When auditioning many models or actors, it becomes difficult to differentiate between each talent. You need to make a creative statement and lasting ion within the context of the project.

Prepare for discomfort. Be prepared to be uncomfortable. It is natural not to feel natural. (That is why it is important to constantly be practicing and training).

Go to every audition that you fit the profile of, even if it is a lower or non-paying project. The acting/model business is all about networking and exposure.

Practice patience. Ability takes time. Be patient with yourself and your agent.

Keep your sides after every acting audition: sometimes it can take weeks to get a callback.

Keep a journal and detailed notes on all of your auditions. Track what happened, how you did, things that worked and things you need work on. By doing this, you will be able to keep track of your strengths, weaknesses, as well as people you meet, which is important for networking.

Track your bookings. When you book a job, always make a note on what the project was, what part you played and who the production company, casting director or client was. Update your resume and make copies for your agent and yourself. That may land you your next job.Pay you agents commission as soon as possible. Agents are professionals, and they really do notice who pays quickly; if they understand you are also professional they will be more likely to send you out more often.

Remain positive. Don't get discouraged. That is why most actors and models are unsuccessful! Surround yourself with positive people who are also in the industry or support you in your passion. It takes the right kind of mental approach and dedication to achieve results in such a competitive field.

The bill below passed the Utah senate a is awaiting the Governor for final sign off. Congrats to all who have helped push this through. We will post more info. when we receive it and Also let you know about Idaho when the push is made there.

All Utah Craze Agency talent please read below and if you agree, please contact your senators and Representatives below. We are almost there! Craze 100% supports this bill, it will really help all of us in the industry and our economy.

The Executive Appropriations Committee consisting of both Senators and Representatives has begun consideration of funding for HB99. Charlie Evans, our representative at the Capitol, wants every one of us to immediately e-mail the 12 Senators and Representatives listed below. We should indicate the importance of funding for HB99. Some talking points might include the fact that this incentive brings immediate cash into the State. This cash creates high paying employment right away. This is a post performance incentive. Production Companies do not receive a dollar until they have spent their money and this expenditure has been verified. Funds are spent in all geographic areas of the State as evidenced by "John Carter of Mars" and "127 Hours". Any number of businesses benefit from our incentive ranging from Hotels to Lumberyards. Under the terms of HB99 we would have an ROI of between 4 or 5 to 1. 

Your e-mail should definitely include the fact that, while we recognize these are tough economic times we need as much of the funding as possible to be ongoing. Only in this way can we attract another series such as "Touched by an Angel" which needs the certainty in the event the series is a hit. 

Please feel free to add anything else that has merit. Whatever you do however, please communicate with the following people immediately.

Please e-mail each individually as it has a far greater impact.. 

Representative Becky Lockhart (Speaker of the House)   blockhart@utah.gov

Senator Michael Waddoups (President of the Senate)     waddoups@utahsenate.org

Senator Lyle Hillyard                  lhillyard@utahsenate.org

Representative Mel Brown          melbrown@utah.gov                   

Senator Dennis Stowell              dstowell@utahsenate.org

Representative John Dougall     jdougall@utah.gov

Representative Brad Dee           bdee@utah.gov

Representative Greg Hughes      greghughes@utah.gov

Senator Scott Jenkins               sjenkins@utahsenate.org

Senator Pete Knudson               pknudson@utahsenate.org

Representative Ronda Menlove  rmenlove@utah.gov

Senator Wayne Niederhauser     wniederhauser@utahsenate.org

http://www.examiner.com/acting-in-salt-lake-city/actors-auditioning-checklist

Get a great modeling and Acting Headshot or Zed Card

Lots of Personality!! Give them fun or serious facial and body expressions. For modeling show off all your best poses and angles. Also show variety in poses, locations and clothing for modeling, this will make you appear to be more experienced. Many people may have a similar look to you- it's your personality that makes you standout.

Don’t be typecast- Do not dress like a specific character or look, lawyer, nurse o police officer only a swimwear model etc... You want the viewer to be able to imagine you as many different characters from one or more pictures.

Clothing choices should be simple. Avoid patterns and prints in favor of solid colors. No white or very light pastels or large logos. Simple clothing helps the viewer see you. You are not selling the clothing with your headshots or zeds cards. Also to tight of clothes or loose and layered clothes do no photograph well.

Makeup. Yes, you want to look your best for your headshot, but that doesn’t mean layers of eyes shadow and unblended blush or too bright of lipstick. If possible hire a professional makeup artist. Keep in mind, you should pay close attention to what your makeup artist does so when you go to an audition or to meet an agent you can walk in the door looking as close to your photo as possible. Men, just make sure your skin is not shiny and your lips are not chapped.

 Look like your headshot. This is not a time to be a beauty queen. You need to give casting directors and clients an accurate version of yourself. Look like your everyday self but just a little better. Sometimes your little flaws will actually get you cast! Keep your current look close to your photos, if not update your photos.

What kind of work you are trying to get? Do you want to do film, commercial or modeling work? They are all shot a little different normally

Don't show a lot of skin!  Females, this means no excess cleavage unless you are doing a modeling zed card, do a few swimwear of tasteful lingerie shots if you have an amazing body. Also remember to do some headshots and a variety of looks. Guys, keep your shirts on unless it is a modeling shot for your zed card. Casting directors want to see you, but not that much of you!

 Face shot or ¾ shots. ¾ shots are useful to show a casting director your body type.         This can be good if you are looking to do commercial work modeling clothes. Be careful, though.

Your eyes really need to be the strongest part of your shot. Of course your smile is    important, too, but the eyes can make or break your picture. Your eyes give you the opportunity to show the layers in your personality. Rather than thinking about the viewer looking at your picture, think about you looking at the viewer.

In a ¾ shot, your eyes can get lost. A facial shot is the best way to show your eyes and your personality...

Try to be unique and show who you are in the photo. Clients often shuffle through dozens of cards and you need to stand out in a positive way.

 Printing. Make sure your great photo is printed on quality card stock and is full of vibrancy and contrast