Extraordinary People with Extraordinary Talent
Contact Us
About Us
SPC clients can currently be seen in national commercials, feature films, television shows and professional theater. SPC clients are represented by some of industry's top agencies including: BBA, Savage, Abrams Artists, KSR. That's only to name a few.
SPC Management is owned and operated by Stephanie Cambria. Stephanie has over 20 years experience working in the entertainment industry. Having been a child actor herself, Stephanie understand the needs of her younger clients in both a professional and EMOTIONAL way. Stephanie loves actors and all that they represent. Stephanie also worked as a professional actor as an adult on stage (the Equity production of, "Women Behind Bars"), film ("Don's Plum"), and TV ("Doogie Howser, MD"), to name a few. A former Groundlings member, Stephanie has spent a number of years teaching Comedy Improvisation to both children and adults. Stephanie's two children are also successful child actors in the industry.
A graduate of Emerson College, in Boston, MA., with a double major in performing arts and communications, Stephanie has spent many years working and negotiating behind the camera, as well. She is the daughter of a prominent television producer, with many of her own producing projects in the works. Stephanie truly enjoys what she does and always stays focused on the heart of her company ... Management.
SPC Talent Management & Production
(818) 606-1231
email: Stephanie@spcproductions.com
Jr. Manager's:
JuJuan Bolding
JuJuan Bolding has spent a number of years at Hollywood Center Studio's as the Manager of Operations. Raising a successful child actor, herself, JuJuan has a natural passion for children, actor's and the entertainment industry. JuJuan is most comfortable behind the scenes, but don't think she's shy. This woman is a class act 'go getter!'
JuJaun Bolding: jujuan@spcproductions.com
Annie Wood
At the age of 14 (after saving up her baby sitting money) Annie joined a acting
class at The Actors Lab in Studio City w/Kent Bateman (father of Jason and
Justin). Within a week, Kent advanced her by inviting her to join his new theatre
company, Theatre III (which is now The Complex on Theatre Row.) As the only
non-adult she had to work extra hard to prove her commitment. She painted sets,
cleaned the bathrooms & eventually auditioned and performed in main stage
productions, including The Carpenters as Jason Batemanʼs nutty sister, Sissy.
Kent soon gave Annie a job as a Teacherʼs Assistant with the weekend teenage
Workshop which she happily took on, in addition to her active theatre member
status. Also during her adolescence, Annie took a part time job with a talent
agency in Beverly Hills where she learned many of the ins and outs of the biz.
She went on to become a member with several theatre companies and helped
start Actorworks with Director, Carl Nelson. As a writer, Annie has been
produced, published and was a contributing writer and co-producer for the
nationally syndicated show that she hosted on the WB, Bzzz! She directed her
play, Hiatus while on Hiatus from the show and last year she directed 36 actors in
the successful Cricketfeet Comedy Showcase at the Promenade Playhouse.
You may also recognize her from her several TV appearance as well as a guest
on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Politically Incorrect with Bill Maher. She
recently appeared in the film, Good Luck Chuck with Dane Cook and Jessica
Alba and in My Sisterʼs Keeper with Cameron Diaz.
For a more about Annie, the Actress please visit www.anniewood.com
She is also the founder of www.DoGoodStuff.org.
Annie Wood
Annie@spcproductions.com
The Difference Between Managers and Agents
Stephanie Cambria
SPC Productions, LLC
Managing Owner
May 31, 2009
Many people have questioned what the differences are between Agents and Managers. You can google the topic, however, you’re not going to get an accurate assessment. I’ve done this and most of what I’ve seen isn’t correct. That’s the danger of the internet. Its kind of like TV to a child. Just because its on there, doesn’t mean its fact. Because I am a manager, I’d like to let you know what it is exactly that I do. Every client is different, but all my guidelines in how and why I do what I do are the same.
However, I’d first like to touch on ‘The Agent.’ Agents are essential for anyone pursuing a career in the arts, whether it be acting, voice over’s, music, writing or producing. A good agent is invaluable. Here is a brief synopsis of their job:
Agents are licensed, franchised and state regulated. They take 10% for Union jobs and sometimes 20% for various non-union jobs. Because they have a large cliental, their money is made by the masses of their clients working. The main job(s) of an agent is to find and book auditions and then make sure all contracts are negotiated and booked when their clients are hired. They answer and make casting calls, book jobs, negotiate contracts. They also book jobs that the Manager finds for their mutual clients. Agents and Managers should have a great communication level in order to create a great team for the client. This will only lead to prosperity for all.
A Note:
Again, Agents have MANY clients ... They base their commission on bulk. Yes, they book the jobs with contracts, but BOTH agents and manager's send you out. At one time, that wasn't the case. However, its different now. So much so, that many agents have left their agencies and became managers. Just last week, I personally know 4 of them ... Successful agents, at that. However, that’s not here nor there ... Having both (as long as they are reputable), gives you more power and less stress ... PERIOD.
Management:
A good manager MANAGES the entire picture. They make sure there is a great client and agent relationship, that the client is COMPLETELY prepared at all times, that all paper work in ANY category is complete, they make sure the client is constantly driven and is in the eye of the entertainment community even when times are slow. They not only develop, but strive in the longevity of the clients success. Managers are not only great for those who are have trouble finding a great agent and are just starting out, “they are the hand holders, they can get them in the door, they also are great after an actor has some REAL credits (not talking student films or extra work) and really needs that extra push to move them to the next level of their career.” (Morgan Freeman: Backstage)
A managers commission is not state regulated. Most managers take 15% - 25%, depending on their contracts. SPC is at the low end of this scale.
As a Manager, I'm on all breakdown/casting services. In order to be on Breakdown Services, I needed 3 agent referral's. I pay monthly and only the legit can be on this site for submission use. MANAGERS submit. They wouldn't be given the tools if that weren't the case. In my experience, I've had clients auditioning for certain jobs that I have submitted them on and got the calls and the agent hasn't and visa versa. Clients HAVE booked this way. The point being, it doesn't matter which of us sends you out, as long as you get out. With both, you have double the power and opportunity. Manager's are also not regulated by the state, so they can go out of the box, set up meetings and create projects around you. Manager's have a smaller cliental without conflict in their clients and therefor are more able to give personal attention. There's only so much time in a day and if an agent say's they're all about you, do the math. Its impossible. Agents are able to briefly talk with the manager and the manager is there to EXPLAIN, LISTEN to the clients needs, wants and questions no matter how small or large their issues are. The Manager’s job is to find the answer and make time to do so. A manager gets your 'team' together ... Starting with your agent. You want everyone on the same page or it doesn't work. The manager pushes the agent and MANAGES all your steps. The manager is your 'liaison' between you and the people involved with your career. And yes, it should start early on. As a clients career evolves, that liaison relationship the manager has, extends to publicity, production and public relations. They help make ‘smart’ choices in offers that are extended.
Here's a brief analogy: Take a restaurant or a store. Are they managed? Yes. Sure it can run without one person delegating and making sure everything is done and everyone is happy. Their goal is to make sure the store/restaurant is the most profitable it can be and that everyone involved is treated fairly, doing what they need to do and as an end result, happy and successful. Its like a great Executive Producer: same thing.
People will often talk to you about commission. If your agents and managers are hard working and BECAUSE of their work, you are working, then their commissions are well earned pay for themselves. You are taxed on your GROSS pay. All commissions, because you’re contracted to pay commission in order to work, are tax deductible. Also, keep in mind, once again, an agent and manager ONLY should make money when their contracted client works. There are many people out there with 'fees' ... AVOID THEM AT ALL COSTS. You also, must make sure, you have a good relationship with whatever manager you choose. That is VITAL.
I'll tell you from personal experience; I was a working actor, but IF I had a manager and didn't listen to my friends, I know I would still be out there working as a successful actor. I couldn't push myself the way great management could have pushed me. Agents saw me one way and I needed other doors opened because I was much more than goofy. I let that happen. That's what drives me in what I do ... I know the difference. I absolutely LOVE what I do!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
© Copyright SPC Productions, LLC 2009. No part of this text or images may be reproduced in any form. Please do not forward to others without my permission. Thank you! Stephanie Cambria, SPC Productions, LLC
SPC Productions, LLC
Managing Owner
May 31, 2009
Many people have questioned what the differences are between Agents and Managers. You can google the topic, however, you’re not going to get an accurate assessment. I’ve done this and most of what I’ve seen isn’t correct. That’s the danger of the internet. Its kind of like TV to a child. Just because its on there, doesn’t mean its fact. Because I am a manager, I’d like to let you know what it is exactly that I do. Every client is different, but all my guidelines in how and why I do what I do are the same.
However, I’d first like to touch on ‘The Agent.’ Agents are essential for anyone pursuing a career in the arts, whether it be acting, voice over’s, music, writing or producing. A good agent is invaluable. Here is a brief synopsis of their job:
Agents are licensed, franchised and state regulated. They take 10% for Union jobs and sometimes 20% for various non-union jobs. Because they have a large cliental, their money is made by the masses of their clients working. The main job(s) of an agent is to find and book auditions and then make sure all contracts are negotiated and booked when their clients are hired. They answer and make casting calls, book jobs, negotiate contracts. They also book jobs that the Manager finds for their mutual clients. Agents and Managers should have a great communication level in order to create a great team for the client. This will only lead to prosperity for all.
A Note:
Again, Agents have MANY clients ... They base their commission on bulk. Yes, they book the jobs with contracts, but BOTH agents and manager's send you out. At one time, that wasn't the case. However, its different now. So much so, that many agents have left their agencies and became managers. Just last week, I personally know 4 of them ... Successful agents, at that. However, that’s not here nor there ... Having both (as long as they are reputable), gives you more power and less stress ... PERIOD.
Management:
A good manager MANAGES the entire picture. They make sure there is a great client and agent relationship, that the client is COMPLETELY prepared at all times, that all paper work in ANY category is complete, they make sure the client is constantly driven and is in the eye of the entertainment community even when times are slow. They not only develop, but strive in the longevity of the clients success. Managers are not only great for those who are have trouble finding a great agent and are just starting out, “they are the hand holders, they can get them in the door, they also are great after an actor has some REAL credits (not talking student films or extra work) and really needs that extra push to move them to the next level of their career.” (Morgan Freeman: Backstage)
A managers commission is not state regulated. Most managers take 15% - 25%, depending on their contracts. SPC is at the low end of this scale.
As a Manager, I'm on all breakdown/casting services. In order to be on Breakdown Services, I needed 3 agent referral's. I pay monthly and only the legit can be on this site for submission use. MANAGERS submit. They wouldn't be given the tools if that weren't the case. In my experience, I've had clients auditioning for certain jobs that I have submitted them on and got the calls and the agent hasn't and visa versa. Clients HAVE booked this way. The point being, it doesn't matter which of us sends you out, as long as you get out. With both, you have double the power and opportunity. Manager's are also not regulated by the state, so they can go out of the box, set up meetings and create projects around you. Manager's have a smaller cliental without conflict in their clients and therefor are more able to give personal attention. There's only so much time in a day and if an agent say's they're all about you, do the math. Its impossible. Agents are able to briefly talk with the manager and the manager is there to EXPLAIN, LISTEN to the clients needs, wants and questions no matter how small or large their issues are. The Manager’s job is to find the answer and make time to do so. A manager gets your 'team' together ... Starting with your agent. You want everyone on the same page or it doesn't work. The manager pushes the agent and MANAGES all your steps. The manager is your 'liaison' between you and the people involved with your career. And yes, it should start early on. As a clients career evolves, that liaison relationship the manager has, extends to publicity, production and public relations. They help make ‘smart’ choices in offers that are extended.
Here's a brief analogy: Take a restaurant or a store. Are they managed? Yes. Sure it can run without one person delegating and making sure everything is done and everyone is happy. Their goal is to make sure the store/restaurant is the most profitable it can be and that everyone involved is treated fairly, doing what they need to do and as an end result, happy and successful. Its like a great Executive Producer: same thing.
People will often talk to you about commission. If your agents and managers are hard working and BECAUSE of their work, you are working, then their commissions are well earned pay for themselves. You are taxed on your GROSS pay. All commissions, because you’re contracted to pay commission in order to work, are tax deductible. Also, keep in mind, once again, an agent and manager ONLY should make money when their contracted client works. There are many people out there with 'fees' ... AVOID THEM AT ALL COSTS. You also, must make sure, you have a good relationship with whatever manager you choose. That is VITAL.
I'll tell you from personal experience; I was a working actor, but IF I had a manager and didn't listen to my friends, I know I would still be out there working as a successful actor. I couldn't push myself the way great management could have pushed me. Agents saw me one way and I needed other doors opened because I was much more than goofy. I let that happen. That's what drives me in what I do ... I know the difference. I absolutely LOVE what I do!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
© Copyright SPC Productions, LLC 2009. No part of this text or images may be reproduced in any form. Please do not forward to others without my permission. Thank you! Stephanie Cambria, SPC Productions, LLC
Birthdays
There are no birthdays today
Photos
Videos
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Malia's Dance Demo
Added by SPC Talent Management
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Taylor Hogue Demo Reel
Added by Taylor Hogue
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Mateus Hosting
Added by SPC Talent Management
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Music
Our Clients - click on the link and then click on a name to see a full profile
Blog Posts
SPC is proud in welcoming Craig Zucchero to their client list!!!!!!!!!!!!
Many of you have seen Craig in a number of things. Now, SPC is going to take him as far as he can go! We expect BIG things for the BIG guy!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by SPC Talent Management on November 6, 2009 at 11:52am
Go, Mateus, Go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Congrat's to SPC's and BBA's client, Mateus Ward, who just booked a Sony Pilot the morning after a late day, first call audition!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mateus, we are so incredibly proud of you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mateus, we are so incredibly proud of you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by SPC Talent Management on November 6, 2009 at 11:46am
SPC Client, Jillian Rea, does it again! You don't want to miss this amazingly talented actress!!!!!!
SPC's and BBA's talented young up and coming starlet is in another can't-miss show!
Jillian recently completed her starring role in the feature, 'Cream Soda.' SPC will keep you posted on its release!
Here is the info of her next show. TRUST us, Jillian is someone worth canceling any plans just to see ... She's THAT great!
Jillian recently completed her starring role in the feature, 'Cream Soda.' SPC will keep you posted on its release!
Here is the info of her next show. TRUST us, Jillian is someone worth canceling any plans just to see ... She's THAT great!
Posted by SPC Talent Management on November 6, 2009 at 11:39am
Q & A w/Elisa Donovan (In Gayle We Trust). See what she say's about actor and SPC client, Shane Cambria!
From The TV Chick on October 19, 2009
Scroll down to see what Elisa says about Shane Cambria! (paragraph on Shane in BOLD)
If you haven’t seen the latest NBC webseries “In Gayle We Trust,” you really should check it out. Each episode is several minutes long, and contain a delightful look into the life of Gayle (an insura… Continue
Scroll down to see what Elisa says about Shane Cambria! (paragraph on Shane in BOLD)
If you haven’t seen the latest NBC webseries “In Gayle We Trust,” you really should check it out. Each episode is several minutes long, and contain a delightful look into the life of Gayle (an insura… Continue
Posted by SPC Talent Management on November 1, 2009 at 9:08am
SPC Productions is seeking the following talent!
ALL TALENT LISTED BELOW MUST BE UNION!!!!!!!!!!
Seeking:
Boys: Ages 12 - 19 (all ethnicities)
Men: Ages 18 - 40 (all ethnicities)
Girls: Ages 10 - 19 (all ethnicities)
Identical Twins: All ages (all ethnicities)
Also, (all age ranges) categorized as ethnic meaning not caucasian children and adults
Please email Stephanie@spcproductions.com to set up a meeting. Include your headshot, resume and any demo reel you might… Continue
Seeking:
Boys: Ages 12 - 19 (all ethnicities)
Men: Ages 18 - 40 (all ethnicities)
Girls: Ages 10 - 19 (all ethnicities)
Identical Twins: All ages (all ethnicities)
Also, (all age ranges) categorized as ethnic meaning not caucasian children and adults
Please email Stephanie@spcproductions.com to set up a meeting. Include your headshot, resume and any demo reel you might… Continue
Posted by SPC Talent Management on October 29, 2009 at 9:11am
Congrat's To SPC's and KSR's Brianca Renfro
Brianca just booked the voice of the Alexis Doll! Go, Brianca!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by SPC Talent Management on October 16, 2009 at 9:22am
'In Gayle We Trust' review ... See client, Shane Cambria
Posted by SPC Talent Management on September 25, 2009 at 12:04pm
Introducing the AMAZINGLY TALENTED, Lawrence Patchin
I must say, that I, Stephanie Cambria, am THRILLED to have signed Lawrence to SPC. He can do ANYTHING with such an amazing original style. Take note ... He WILL go far!
Posted by SPC Talent Management on September 18, 2009 at 10:03am
Tune into Shane Cambria on 'In Gayle We Trust.'
The first 3 episodes up don't focus on Shane's character, but still watch! Tune in next week and you'll get to enjoy his great work on the show!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Team Gayle -- Today's the day! We're officially live!
The series trailer, first three episodes and behind-the-scenes interviews of "In… Continue
Posted by SPC Talent Management on September 15, 2009 at 8:26pm
Congrat's to Shane Cambria
Actor and SPC and KSR client, Shane Cambria tested great last week on the live test show for The Jay Leno Show. He's going back live, again on Wed. The show will air that evening .... Be sure to Tivo!
Posted by SPC Talent Management on September 14, 2009 at 4:00pm
Shane Cambria Books, Again!!!!!!
Congrat's to SPC's and KSR's client, actor Shane Cambria! He was an immediate first choice for Jay Leno. He shoots tomorrow :)
Posted by SPC Talent Management on September 8, 2009 at 2:14pm
SPC welcomes two new clients!
Please welcome Annie Wood's client, Vivian Reese and JuJuan Bolding's new client, Jessica Williams.
We very and happy to have both of you girls on our fabulous team. Watch out Hollywood; Here they come!!!!!!!!!
Vivian Reese
… Continue
We very and happy to have both of you girls on our fabulous team. Watch out Hollywood; Here they come!!!!!!!!!
Vivian Reese
… Continue
Posted by SPC Talent Management on August 28, 2009 at 8:27am
Actor Fest from Backstage West
SPC is not involved in this in any way. We just like to show anything out there that may be able to help our clients succeed.
NOVEMBER 14, 2009
CALIFORNIA MARKET CENTER, LA
Be There. Be Seen. Get Noticed.
Register Now
Before Things
Sell Out!
Don’t miss our excellent lineup of WORKSHOPS given by
top casting directors, agents and managers.
We've just added...
> Brad Gilmore, Casting Director, Unsolved Mysteries Panel
> Mark Teschner, Casting Director, General Hospital
> April Webs… Continue
NOVEMBER 14, 2009
CALIFORNIA MARKET CENTER, LA
Be There. Be Seen. Get Noticed.
Register Now
Before Things
Sell Out!
Don’t miss our excellent lineup of WORKSHOPS given by
top casting directors, agents and managers.
We've just added...
> Brad Gilmore, Casting Director, Unsolved Mysteries Panel
> Mark Teschner, Casting Director, General Hospital
> April Webs… Continue
Posted by SPC Talent Management on August 27, 2009 at 10:03am
Classes, Techniques and Observations
Last night, Annie and I went to scout an acting program as an alternative place for our list for clients to study with. Yes, Annie and I are joining to teach together, as well, but that's only because its something we both are passionate about and have done for years prior to management. Before I go on, this blog post is NOT about selling our classes vs. someone else's. Our classes are NOT required and anyone who is a client of SPC or from anyone else, for that matter. There are many instructor'… Continue
Posted by SPC Talent Management on August 25, 2009 at 11:21am
SPC Productions has added a FABULOUS new Manager to our team!!!!!!!!!!
Introducing: Annie Wood
Annie Wood
At the age of 14 (after saving up her baby sitting money) Annie joined a acting
class at The Actors Lab in Studio City w/Kent Bateman (father of Jason and
Justin). Within a week, Kent advanced her by inviting her to join his new theatre
company, Theatre III (which is now The Complex on Theatre Row.) As the only
non-adult she had to work extra hard to prove her commitment. She painted sets,
cleaned the bathrooms & eventually auditioned and performed in mai… Continue
Annie Wood
At the age of 14 (after saving up her baby sitting money) Annie joined a acting
class at The Actors Lab in Studio City w/Kent Bateman (father of Jason and
Justin). Within a week, Kent advanced her by inviting her to join his new theatre
company, Theatre III (which is now The Complex on Theatre Row.) As the only
non-adult she had to work extra hard to prove her commitment. She painted sets,
cleaned the bathrooms & eventually auditioned and performed in mai… Continue
Posted by SPC Talent Management on August 15, 2009 at 3:42pm
Industry Folk ONLY! Please come see client, Christine Krench!
Theatre Neo Presents "Making A Scene!"
A Scene Showcase for INDUSTRY ONLY
30 actors, 15 scenes (just over an hour)
Reception immediately following the show
AUGUST 31 @ 8pm
2811 W. Magnolia Blvd.
Burbank, CA
*RESERVATIONS REQUIRED: 323-769-5858
Cast: Ara Anton, David Garry, Laura Julian, Natalie Miston, Donaco Smyth, Greg Baglia, James Geralden, Zack Kraus, Rebecca Orien,
David St. James, Bernadette Bonfiglio, Marcy Goldman, Christine Krench, Detra Payne, Damon Standifer, Maria Cominis, Aimee G… Continue
A Scene Showcase for INDUSTRY ONLY
30 actors, 15 scenes (just over an hour)
Reception immediately following the show
AUGUST 31 @ 8pm
2811 W. Magnolia Blvd.
Burbank, CA
*RESERVATIONS REQUIRED: 323-769-5858
Cast: Ara Anton, David Garry, Laura Julian, Natalie Miston, Donaco Smyth, Greg Baglia, James Geralden, Zack Kraus, Rebecca Orien,
David St. James, Bernadette Bonfiglio, Marcy Goldman, Christine Krench, Detra Payne, Damon Standifer, Maria Cominis, Aimee G… Continue
Posted by SPC Talent Management on August 15, 2009 at 9:30am
SPC is proud to welcome dancer and actress, 7 year old Nicole Ann Love!
Nicole has been training for time time now. Not only an amazing part of the working dance world, Nicole can sing and act! Can you say tripple threat? Think of her as you do!
Posted by SPC Talent Management on August 14, 2009 at 12:17pm
Welcome client, Franklin Moukoian
SPC is proud in welcoming newest client, Franklin Moukoian! Franklin is managed by SPC's Melissa White.
Posted by SPC Talent Management on August 11, 2009 at 12:20pm
BRAVO to client, Mateus Ward!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
10 year old Mateus Ward just moved back to LA from Hawaii. Determined to begin his venture in a career in acting, he not only got hired to be in a film just because he happened to be on set, but, he also booked another film right out of his first audition. Casting and the Director loved him so much that although he didn't book the part he read for due to a cosmetic matching issue, a new part was written just for him.
I have spoke with many casting director's ... That's my j… Continue
I have spoke with many casting director's ... That's my j… Continue
Posted by SPC Talent Management on August 10, 2009 at 11:11pm
Clients see clients!
One of the greatest parts of being an SPC client is the sense of support you get as an entity. SPC is not just a company, it's a family.
Clients Joyce St. Marie and Hayley Larue came this past weekend to see and support clients Shane and Ryan Cambria in The Santa Clarita Repertory's production of "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" at The Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at COC in Valencia, CA. Posted below a picture of these clients is Client, Malia Tyler who came with her mothe… Continue
Clients Joyce St. Marie and Hayley Larue came this past weekend to see and support clients Shane and Ryan Cambria in The Santa Clarita Repertory's production of "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" at The Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at COC in Valencia, CA. Posted below a picture of these clients is Client, Malia Tyler who came with her mothe… Continue
Posted by SPC Talent Management on August 10, 2009 at 10:00am
About
Events
Badge
Headshot Info Sheet by one of my favorite photographer's! Go, Robin!
HEADSHOTS by Robin Lorraine Photography
A headshot is not just a picture. It’s your calling card & a marketing tool. With today’s online casting your headshot needs to stand out in a sea of 2-inch thumbnails. Gone are the days when the majority of the casting directors get to sort thru hardcopy 8x10 prints. Today casting directors view your 2-inch thumbnail headshot on a screen next to 30 plus other actors. Having a tight, close-up headshot that is vibrant & pops off the page showing the face of the actor is imperative if you want to be noticed.
To achieve this it is a team effort. I like to inform clients a bit so they can participate in creating winning images. Please read the below information and call or email me if you have any questions. My purpose is to provide you with shots that get you auditions, get you in doors & help you attain success. I truly love to hear that my clients are succeeding & winning!
I like to mention that you want to trust your agent & manager & know that they will pick shots that may not always be your favorite, but one that the she or he believes will be the best in marketing the actor. I always try to give a good selection of commercial, theatrical and character looks to ensure the bases are covered. As it is digital I shoot heavy and then edit down the batch to good useable shots. With kids and even some teens it may take time for them to loosen up with the camera & really give natural, non-cheesy or fake smiles. Also, sometimes we have to really work with young children not to tilt the head into very posey shots. I work with kids until we get that no matter how long it takes!!!
COMMERCIAL SHOT VERSUS THEATRICAL SHOT
I will capture a variety of looks but the most important looks that I will be shooting for are the commercial & theatrical headshot.
A commercial shot typically should be very cheerful or friendly showing great energy. Commercial headshots are usually very smiley. A commercial has 20-30 seconds to sell a product and for the most part this is done with big smiles –“Life is so much fun when eating McDonalds”. The shots that radiate “I’m so cute you want to meet me, I’m a lovable energetic cutie pie, I’m a devilish little cutie, I’m a fun & outgoing kid and then of course the “I’m such a character or I’m the full of personality-kid next door.” Typically a commercial shot is a full smile and with "smiley eyes"!
A theatrical shot (TV & film) normally shows confidence & ability. Often the agent will pull a very serious look for a theatrical shot. The shot generally shows strong emotion from the eyes and gets a message across that this kid or talent knows what they are doing. They can look confident, soulful, emotional, intense & dramatic.
Some agents & managers like to have character shots as part of the online portfolio. Character shots include nerdy, goofy, rebel, bully, tomboy, very rich conservative kid, J Crew look, hip urban look, mean girl, bad boy, school girl, skater kid, athlete, sweet & innocent, country girl, comedian, etc. These are done with appropriate clothing, glasses, braids, pigtails, spiked hair & always done with great facial animation. Wife beater tank tops for boys, denim jackets, denim overalls, sports tanks, plaid shirts, sweater vest, hip clothing, ties, etc. A hip look right now for young male tweens & teens is the Jonas brothers look (vest over t-shirt, skinny jeans, loose tie, etc.)
Lastly if an actor is pro level at any sport or ability then that look should definitely be captured at least to give the agent one shot that he or she may use. (skater, baseball, etc).
I have surveyed Casting directors, agents & managers to find out what is needed & wanted in today’s headshots for kids & teens. Although each Agent may have particular preferences the consistent answers are:
The headshot must look like you
The background should be very clean & or blurred with actors face in focus
The hair should not blend into the background, rather contrast with it.
No black, no white, gray or pale washed out pastel colors
Prefer vertical shots to horizontal as they work better online.
Shots should not be lower then the ribcage
Bright eye catching colors work best
Natural looks with very light make-up for teens, no harsh or bright lipstick.
For young kids no make-up
No ruffles, pageant looks, busy patterns & bows. The look is very clean & simple.
You should ALWAYS ask your agent or manager if they want any specific looks & what exactly do they want or don’t want prior to our shoot. You can also ask them if they plan on marketing him or her as a specific type.
*With youth I particularly like to work with very bright colors. Depending on their skin tones & hair I will give personal recommendations. But typically bright blues, fuchsia, teal greens, aqua, turquoise, deep yellow, orange & mid tone purples. Some kids can pull off red. The key is that it brings out the eyes & doesn’t over power the skin. Those with very light, white skin should not have too bold or strong colors or it will be too much contrast. Darker skins can wear the stronger colors, & very dark skin can get away with a lighter color. I can send sample shots of colors that I recommend for your child’s specific coloring.
*Long sleeve snug fitting shirts work great & even better textured long sleeves. Long sleeves throw lots of color in the shot & hide the arms. (Sweaters, thermals, etc) Clean t-shirts work great, no baggy clothing please. You end up with lots of wrinkles in the shot and you can't see the actors real size.
*Please notice how the neckline falls especially for girls. Droopy & low necklines are not recommended. We do not want to have any form of sensuality showing in young girls. And although we may shoot a tank, typically we do not want to show a lot of skin. Loose fitting necklines always fall forward and create a problem when shooting.
*Think layers: yellow tank peeking under a bright orange top, lavender under purple, dark brown sweater over a turquoise tee. Boys can layer a t-shirt under a casual shirt, short sleeve tee over a long sleeve tee etc. Sweaters, hoodies, tanks, jackets all work well for this also.
*Typically we will shoot 4 –5 different looks.
*Having too many outfits is my preference!!! I love it when you have a big selection for me to choose from.
If your child will be doing print work & need Zed cards we will shoot some appropriate shots including full length or 3/4 shots. Girls should have a dress included & boys should have a sport coat. Also, hats can be included in this as well. Please check with me regarding this if your child is a model. Pricing can be different depending on what is needed.
FINALLY
There is a lot of information here, but this is only so you can be well prepared. Although there are many basic rules about headshots remember that sometimes we break the rules and it works! If you have something that you want to try I'm open to this. It’s digital—worst case scenario we throw it away!
Looking forward to a great shoot!
Robin
© Copyright Robin Lorraine Photography 2008. No part of this text or images may be reproduced in any form. Please do not forward to others without my permission. Thank you for respecting! Robin Lorraine Photography
Robin Lorraine Photography
Robin Lorraine Alvarez
T. 323 . 317 . 2165
robin@robinlorraine.com
http://www.robinlorraine.com
"Headshots for Kids & Teens"
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