It seems everyone is making movies these days, and you don't have to be in Hollywood to star in one.  There are plenty of independent films, student films and web projects looking for kids, and you can find them across the nation.

Participation in low/no budget projects has a lot of benefits.  Your child gets an opportunity to practice his craft in potentially meaty roles.  He'll get the experience and excitement of being on set, and he'll feel accomplished when his work is complete.

Low/no budget projects can also look great on resumes and have the potential to look good on reels as well. However, the bottom line is you must be discerning as a parent when it comes to these projects, and more so than ever, you will have to act as the advocate for your child while on set.

Here are some things to consider:

What do industry professionals say: The majority of agents and managers will recommend low and no budget projects (such as student films) to those just starting out and needing experience.  Additionally, many casting directors suggest that they don't shy away from new actors who have participated in low/no budget films. However, they will note that they do not suggest you participate if it hinders your ability to attend auditions and participate in projects they book you on. 

"It is not necessarily the budget, but rather the content of the film that is important," suggests casting director Fern Champion.  "The phrase 'earn while you learn' is just that.  The best way [to learn] is to be on set.  However, for a young adult (or even an adult), consider the subject matter, where the product will be played and what kind of part the actor will be playing."

Will it help my resume:  Yes, if your child does not have other well-know, credible or union productions on her resume, getting started with some great roles in low/no budget projects will be great for the resume.  However, when the paying projects begin to come around, be sure to add the more credible titles to the top of the resume and slowly bump the lessers off.

Should I participate so I have something for my reel:  If you are considering low/no budget participation simply to gain footage for a reel, the answer by most pros is no.  Low and no-budget footage looks, well, like no/low budget footage and there is no reason to create a reel, especially a poor one, simply to have a reel.  However, if a role presents itself that you and your child are truly interested in (for experience, fun, or to make connections) and it so happens that the film turns out to be extraordinary, adding it to your reel is not a problem.  

Does the project pay?: It is not unreasonable to ask this question before participating in a project even if it is a low/no budget project.  Generally speaking, the production must pay your child at least minimum wage; there are a limited amount of exceptions and the laws vary by State. This is because while an adult can legally agree to volunteer their own time, a child cannot be spoken for regarding this matter. 


What is the law?:  Find out the laws for your state and the state in which you will be working.  If the project is low/no budget it is likely that those running the show don't know the specifics of the law.  It will be very important, therefore, for you to monitor your child's safety, welfare and education when others may not be prepared to do so.