BE VERY AFRAID
of an
AGENT
WHO:
Not only NO, but OH, NO! Legitimate agents don't charge you anything. They work for you. They will
work for a percent of what you make--which means they don't get paid till you get paid.
Actors Beware of agents who say this! If
you're not sure about an agent, call the Better Business Bureau and ask!
NO ONE can promise you STEADY work...OK, maybe a very
successful Producer or a really really rich guy -- but an agent who promises you that--you
should beware of!
Oh, come on...surely you
don't believe THAT!
"There are NO GUARANTEES in
this business!"
Yeah, right!
I promise...I swear...I
almost guarantee you (but no guarantees, right?) that if you do this, you'll be sorry!
ACTOR BEWARE, AND
BE AFRAID, BE VERY AFRAID!
Remember, God gave you
common sense. Use it. If it smells fishy or if a bell goes off or if you see a RED FLAG
waving--HOLD YOUR NOSE, DUCK, RUN FOR COVER, STAY AWAY FROM THESE GUYS!
OK, so I'm afraid of
dentists, too!
You have every right to see
everything you sign and to have a copy made. You also have every right to expect a little
attention from your agent...but don't be too unreasonable--they're trying to get you
auditions--they can't just stop everything to make small talk with you!
Agents should only RECOMMEND
several different photographers and classes, NOT INSIST that you take only their
classes and use only their photographer. Whatever you do, just BEWARE.
Just watch out for the
'street corner' agents--who set up shop one day and disappear the next. They're out
there...but don't try to find them, they'll find you. Always -- BEWARE especially
if an agent approaches you first! Legitimate agents are always on the lookout for new
talent, but, don't get carried away just because an 'agent' likes your work!
Say thank you and then, if you've never heard of them before, check them out with
the Better Business Bureau, SAG, the state Film Commission and ASK. ASK everyone you
know...don't ever be afraid to ASK!
there's more...there's a lot
more...and if you'd like to add to what's here, email us!
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