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How Do I Get My Child on Television?
"Is there a "Right" way to break in to the business?"
If you have an attractive or talented minor, you've probably been encouraged by friends or relatives to get her involved in showbiz. And if that seed has been planted, you're now eager to learn exactly what steps you need to take to make that dream a reality.
"How do I get my child on TV?" It's a question we at Children In Film get daily. The problem is parents are bombarded with so much conflicting information that they don't always know where to start. Additionally, many are looking for a "quick-fix" solution to breaking in to television so they neglect the casting process, and ultimately end up spinning their wheels on casting websites, potential scams and inaccurate forums.
Don't beat your head against the wall! The following information is designed to answer your question, but it is like a weight loss diet - do it right and you'll see results, try to take shortcuts and you'll end up frustrated.
Know the difference between Television, Film, Commercials, Print Modeling and other forms of media.
Okay, so we know you can tell the difference between a television show and a print ad, but do you know hot to get cast in each? If your child wants to be on a television show, he is going to need a theatrical agent. If she wants to be in commercials, she'll need a commercial agent. For a detailed list of types of agents, click here.
Know how to get face-time with potential agents.
Once you've determined the type of represenation your child will require, you need to get meetings with them. First, do your research. Children In Film allows you to read bios as well as ratings and recommendations for the industry pros listed in our Member Directory. After you've determined the agents in which you are interested, you can contact them directly through the site to set up a meeting.
Additionally, attending Ready...Set...Meets!, Hollywood From Home webinars and other networking events (both live and virtual) are excellent ways to meet agents. Each of these CIF events have produced success stories where minors have signed with agents.
Mary Cates, Mother of CIF Member Philip Cates explained how she met Philip's agent, Jeremy Apody, through a Hollywood From Home webinar.
"Jeremy and Phillip just booked two national commercials!" she reported. "I attribute this success, in part, to the connection made between them during the HFH Webinar with Jeremy."
Know how to prepare for roles:
If you want to work in sitcoms, your potential theatrical agent is going to want to see that your child is studying the subject. Once you are signed, staying in shape as an actor will boost your child's resume and help him secure roles. Choose acting classes and coaches that work in your area of interest. Ask potential coaches what they specialize in, or locate the profiles of child actors within our Member Directory and find ones where their resume lists a lot of sitcom work. Then, contact the member and start up a conversation with her parent to determine what kind of classes she's taking.
Remember, success in this industry is dependent upon knowning the accurate steps and information, and then knowning and connecting with the right people. That's why Children In Film is everything and everyone you need to know!
To read more about the different types of Talent Agents
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