Casting Calls

Casting calls are talent searches for a specific project. Television shows, and art directors look for models and actors for their projects. Whether it is your goal to appear on national television, or participate in a local project, you may want to check casting call sections of local newspapers and online ads. Depending on the project, there is either cash payment promised, credit, or photographs. Regardless of the size of the agency placing a casting call, they all want to save money. Decide for yourself, what is more important to you, exposure, credit or money. Determine what will be the circulation of the print ad or television appearance, as well as how bad the art director or a show producer wants you, and what advantages you have over your competition.

I have been scouted several times (unsolicited) by several major shows on national television networks. I had a chance, while participating in their projects, to meet with other participants. Surprisingly, I discovered that the same show did not pay the same amount to each participant. If the producer is really interested in bringing you to the program, you are in the position to negotiate a higher appearance fee. However, if they have a pool of candidates that are similar to your, you may not be in the best negotiating position, especially if you want to get credit that you can add to your resume.