The Young Ones

Many of my friends ask me, “How many stage moms do you run across?”  My answer is, “In Cleveland, just a few.” To be honest, the young ones really want to act.  Some are perfect for it.  When these children come see me, I want them to have a positive first experience etting headshots.  I want them to have fun, and I assure them that this will be a great time.

I once had a young actress with blonde hair and beautiful blue eyes tell me she was ready to be beautified.  I told her “You are perfect the way you are and makeup really isn’t needed.”  Just two weeks ago a child actress, started asking about my job as I groomed her for photos.  She inquired, “How long have you done this job?” Also, “What famous people have you met?”  At the end of the shoot, she told me that I did a good job and she had a nice time.  She then gave me a hug and said, “Thank you!”  It made my day.

   These actors in training really want to excel, but the parents are confused as to where to start.  Here are some tips for the parents of child actors… 

Plan ahead!  Many parents would like to submit photos right away to agencies in LA or NYC, but don’t have a plan in place if the child actually lands a role.  This fact is foolish.  If you plan on going to a major market, think it through and consider what you and your family are going to do if your child is cast.  If you have other children, are you able to move the whole family?  Does everyone want to leave Cleveland?  Will you have a job when you move?  Most likely your child will not be able to support you right away with this new role.  Some actors have actually landed roles and then the family realizes that they cannot relocate.  What a waste of time and money!

 

Be reasonable!  Here is a news flash: if you think Hollywood will fly your child across county because they LOVE the child’s pictures, guess again. Agencies/studios want talent in that state. You may go to another market audition and work to build your resume, but don’t wait for a “Golden Ticket” to come to you.  If your child is acting regularly, a parent must prepare themselves and their child for an unusual amount of missed school.  Production is Monday through Friday usually 9 to 5.  Agents don’t want to hear about your child’s grades or sports schedule; this isn’t their problem. They will just go to the next child actor willing to miss the necessary hours of school, and your child will lose out.  Many parents tend to home school their child actor, so there isn’t a conflict.

Be smart!  I think the best advice the public can received is: if anyone wants you to pay money up front to be in an agency or ask you to buy a package, DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING and don’t work with them.  Odds are they are shady.  They will take your money and your child will not work.  It is okay to set up a photo shoot on your own.  You might want to pay a fee to the agent for exposure on their website to show your child’s portfolio.  Many clients book talent this way; it is wise to invest your money in this common practice.

Finally, go with your gut, ask questions, and do some research. Also don’t think it will happen overnight and add credits to your child’s resume.  Being in plays and taking acting classes helps. Don’t quit your day job.  You will need that for funding your young ones career until it takes off.  As time goes on, you will see if this business is for your child and your patience.

Eric Mull/Karen Siat

Eric Mull/ Karen Siat

Eric Mull/Karen Siat