Friday 6 December 2013

My Target Shoot by Ashleigh-Rose

My Target Shoot by Ashleigh-Rose

Hi I recently did a video shoot for Target and it was so exciting and fun.

I liked how it made me feel like a different person because of all the microphones hanging above me and the cameras around me, it’s like I’m in another world.

I felt special with everyone fussing over me and getting my hair done. It was cool.

All the people there are so nice and made me feel important and famous.

When I see myself in the catalogues and video I feel so many different things – happy, excited, like a new person.

Thank you Bettina Management for giving me this opportunity to have so much fun.

Love from Ashleigh-Rose

You can watch Ashleigh-Rose's video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5cF3sLaazb4

Friday 29 November 2013

Flashback Friday

It's that time again! 

We take a look at some of our most dedicated Bettina talent over the years and thank them and their parents for all their hard work!

Between them - Jameson, Chloe and Isobelle have cast for and worked with brands such as Four and Twenty, Uncle Toby's, The Today Show, Sofitel Hotels, New Idea, Deals Direct, Adidas, Microsoft, Winners and Losers, Disney, KFC, McDonalds, Salvation Army, Expedia, Meadow Lea, LCM bars and Kirks!

An applause is in order for these 3... 

Jameson 2005- current
(Our longest member to date!)



Chloe 2010 - current 



Isobelle 2006 - current 






Friday 15 November 2013

Self-test audition help!

Do you know what a self-test audition tape is? 

Recently we have had a few requests for talent to record their audition for us to send to the clients. 

This is a growing request, particularly with the expansion of easy to use technologies. These requests have also been popular in states such as Western Australia and Queensland as cities are relatively more dispersed and driving time to a casting can take longer.

To ensure all of our talent have the best opportunity possible when requested to send a self-test audition tape, we have compiled a list of essential tips. 

1. Film your audition on a plain background and ensure the actor is clearly visible. 

2. Get a family member or friend involved to read the other part of the script- they don't have to be a good actor, even if they simply say the words on the script it will bring the audition to life. 

3. Be wary of background noises while making sure you are clearly audible. Even the slightest background noise such as muffling or distant voices can detract from the audition. 

4. File must be in appropriate format: .mov .mp4 .m4v - you can convert a file to mp4 here simply by uploading your video.  

5. Label your file - most casting directors will alert us to how they would like the file to be named, but if they don't, ensure it is labelled with Name_Project_Role. A file named '12345audition.mp4' has the capacity to get lost or to be discarded. 

6. Shoot the audition in a medium close up, which means a shot from the actors shoulders up, followed by a long shot at the end where the actor must state their name, age and height to the camera. 

7. Upload to a free video sharing site like Vimeo or Hightail. You can find easy to use instructions for these sites here and here. Then all you have to do is send us the link and cross your fingers!

The above points are a guide, remember we are here to offer advice and further tips during business hours if your child is requested to cast for a self-test audition. The casting director will also have specific requirements relevant to their processes which will need to be adhered to, these will be sent to you with your audition request!

Friday 1 November 2013

6 Key Casting Attire Tips

In a previous post, 'First Casting Jitters' we guided you through overcoming nerves for your first casting. We want to recap on the most important tips regarding a casting and appropriate clothing, whether it's your first or not! 

1. Bright colours - Bright colours are a must. Most casting agencies will want to take a photo of your child against a white wall. You want the photo to stand out, not blend in!

2. Clean shoes - Never underestimate the importance of clean shoes! Simply giving them a quick scrub over or wipe before a casting makes all the difference in your child's overall presentation... and it only takes a few minutes! 

3. Brand appropriate - Think of the brand you are going to cast for (if known) and try to dress your child in similar attire depending on the genre, e.g. sporty, high fashion, casual, professional. This will give the client a clearer image of what your child would look like in the campaign or advertisement. 

4. Age appropriate - It is essential to ensure your child is dressed to an age appropriate standard. This means no inappropriate language on clothing and for girls 14 and under: no make-up, excessive jewellery or high heels. Clients always want talent to be natural. 

5. Comfort - Don't dress your child in anything that they may feel uncomfortable wearing, this will minimise their ability to speak easily and they may not feel relaxed during the casting. 

6. School Uniform - Many castings occur after school hours, but we encourage parents to take a spare outfit to put on before the casting. There can be occasions where children are required to wear school uniform, generally if the casting is for a Government or School campaign - however you will be notified by us if this is necessary. Put simply, if we don't mention anything about school uniform - don't wear it! 

You can also check out or other posts on castings if you want more information:
Casting 101 Part 1 of 3
Casting 101 Part 2 of 3
Casting 101 Part 3 of 3



Thursday 24 October 2013

Brisbane & Perth Modelling Classes

We had a peek at our Perth and Brisbane members in action at their complimentary modelling class!

Members in Sydney, Brisbane and Perth receieve a modelling and acting class with their membership to ensure they are taught the basic skills required for photo shoots and castings. It's also a beneficial opportunity to gauge member's abilities while interacting with other children. 

Perth Modelling teacher and talent scout Gloria, says that her favourite part of the class is the fashion parade at the end. 

'To see the transformation and the look on the kids faces, the difference in the posture, and their confidence.. to me, is very satisfying.'

Children are taught Modelling 101 from stance, posture, gestures, walk, footing, turns to an array of poses and facial expression techniques. While scrubbing up on these essentials are crucial to display confidence in a casting, they are also skills that can be practiced at home and shared with friends. 

Gloria says the children 'come in shy and walk out with excitement and new friends, the parents love the fashion parade - it shows how much their child has learnt.' 

With a teacher and assistant present, stand out performances and unique skills are noted and passed over to the casting department to assist with the casting process. It's also a great way for us to meet with members and parents again to discuss new developments or extra-curricular activities. 

If you are a member and have not yet booked in for your complimentary class, please do so by emailing amg@bettina.com.au or calling us on 1300 888 611. 




Friday 4 October 2013

Flashback Friday!


Flashback Friday for Chelsea, Beau and Mimi!

Between them, these 3 have been featured in campaigns for Mattel, Peter Alexander, Cadbury, Cotton On, Speedo, Moose Toys, Myer, Target, Kmart, Best and Less, Aldi and Dimmeys!

Big thanks to Mums & Dads for making the above possible.

Chelsea 2010 - current


Beau 2008 - current


 Mimi 2010 - current


Friday 20 September 2013

Tom Morgan wins a trip to Hollywood




                            TOM MORGAN | 15 | MELBOURNE

 IF YOU WERE AN ASPIRING TEENAGE ACTOR, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR BIGGEST DREAM?

Sixteen days shy of his 16th birthday, Tom Morgan became one step closer to his.

On an unsuspecting Saturday morning, Tom and Mum Jo-Anne attended a Casting Seminar presented by Lilly Dawson under the impression they were due to attend an audition afterwards. The ‘audition’ was cleverly crafted to ensure Tom’s attendance at the event amidst a planned presentation by Lilly and Bettina.  


Lilly Dawson, from Lilly Dawson Casting and Hollywood Immersive, said Tom was chosen for the prize based on his brilliant attitude, talent, great look and ability to take on a challenge. ‘He is not afraid and tackles everything with enthusiasm and excitement regardless of his limited experience. It was a very emotional moment for Tom and his Mum and I think I may have even shed a tear or two myself!'

Hollywood, in the district of Los Angeles and globally renowned for its thriving entertainment industry and cultivation of celebrity careers, will be Tom’s destination in January as he packs his bags to jet off for a week long intensive Hollywood Immersive Acting course. The all expenses paid trip and course is courtesy of Bettina Management, the Kids in Showbiz Program and Hollywood Immersive. The experience will thrust Tom in the limelight to meet with key Hollywood agents, producers and directors.

Mum Jo-Anne, Bettina, Tom and Lilly
Mum Jo-Anne told us yesterday that 'it was absolutely surreal, this is a dream come true for Tom.'

We caught up with Tom after the excitement of the weekend to find out more about him and how he was feeling about the looming trip and future acting ambitions.

How are you feeling about Saturday, was it anything you could have ever imagined?
No, it’s not. I was completely surprised and shocked at what happened.’

How did it feel telling your family and friends?
'It felt good, mum told all my family but I told all my friends and most of them didn’t believe me so I had to show them proof!'

When did you first realise you wanted to be an Actor and Model?
'I’ve always loved acting because I love watching movies and TV shows, and I also realised that modelling leads into acting and if I was to be in the modelling industry it would improve my chances of being in the acting industry as well.'

Being an Aspire Entertainment student, Tom says that participation in professional classes have helped with his confidence in reassuring him that putting in the hard yards will ultimately be rewarding.  

A seasoned rover, having travelled to New Zealand, Thailand, Indonesia, Fiji, South Africa and Hawaii already, Tom will be making his debut on the American mainland. He says he is most looking forward to see how professional actors go about things and also being able to experience what it would be like living in LA. 'My biggest goal is to become a professional actor, similar to actors like Angelina Jolie who do humanitarian work for underprivileged people.'

Tom’s advice to aspiring actors and models is to ‘not be put off by the thought of being rejected in order to get where you want to go, you will most likely be rejected many more times than you are accepted.’ While acknowledging many dream big and large, Tom says that exposure to the American acting industry would be an ideal outcome, but says he is happy to simply come back to Australia knowing much more about what it takes to be a professional actor.

Tom exudes calmness and determination even when wrapped up in the excitement of this life changing prize. Lilly admits ‘Tom wants this dream – there is no doubt and it shows.'

Look out, Hollywood!


Friday 13 September 2013

Bettina Management Stories




'Mason really loved doing the Jeep commercial, this was his first job and all the people were fantastic! When I asked him if he would do it again he replied "oh yeah". We were made to feel so welcome and they all loved Mason and said he did really well, Mason was very proud of himself and this experience has given him more confidence. He liked meeting all the other children and playing hide and seek. Mason can't wait to see himself on tv!!' - Rebecca, Melbourne






'We were very excited to get the call to tell us that Charlotte had been selected to walk the catwalk at Pandora's new season jewellery release. Charlotte was so excited to go on stage and just couldn't wait for her turn. She did a fantastic job, smiling and interacting and showing off her jewellery. It was truly a wonderful experience. She was made to feel very special and comfortable. She can't wait for what else might be around the corner!'  - Michelle, Perth 

Wednesday 11 September 2013

Why didn't I get the job?

Getting a casting is very exciting...



Whether you're a seasoned auditioner or it's your first time, there is always a chance that you may not get chosen for the role.

Ever wondered why this might be? 

There are many steps involved before we receive a brief for a casting from a client. Often, every detail included in the brief is carefully planned and considered for the advertisement, catalogue or acting role in question. Alternatively, the client could only have a rough idea of what they are looking for and open the door to different options; relying heavily on our opinion and skills to match the brief accordingly. Clients may realise upon receiving submissions, which type of child would add the right character to the role. 

Walking out of the casting feeling like it went really well is comforting, but it pays to remember that clients might like all of the talent, and still have to choose someone based on a collaborative decision. Mostly, we are not told why talent are unsuccessful, similar to adults auditioning for modelling and acting roles. However, experience has suggested that these are a few reasons that contribute to missing out: 

  • If they have to cast for parents, one child could suit the 'family' more than others and create a more realistic look
  • The child role could be cancelled at the last minute or changed to a different age group
  • Your availability for shooting dates and flexibility may not suit schedule
  • Another child may resemble more so, what the client has in mind for the brand upon meeting in person
  • Personality is key. It makes the choice easy for the client if one child comes in rather shy, followed by someone who is excited to be there and confident in their interactions. 
  • Experience can sometimes play a part, especially for older children in acting roles. This can be evident straight away with introductions and reading of scripts (this is where acting courses can help significantly to assist with scoring the role) 
  • It's subjective to different photographers and different producers across the board - we could think someone resembles the role but the client will choose differently depending on a range of other factors
  • Upon meeting talent, the client could change their mind about the type of child they would like for the role, nothing is set in stone!


So remember, every casting that you attend will help with confidence for the next one. 
Try not to get disheartened about these processes, chalk it all up to experience!


Friday 30 August 2013

Happy Father's Day!

It's Father's Day in 2 sleeps!

We spoke to some of our young members and found out what special plans they have for Sunday...


Zahra and Dad Alhaji:
'Father's Day plans for Sunday are to make Daddy a cup of tea in bed and give him a suprise present and 
a handmade card I made...We will then take him 
out for breakfast and go for a walk at
Warrandyte river with my new baby brother
who is only 2 weeks old! I will ride my bike and
Mummy and Daddy will push my baby brother in his pram'









Sienna, Dylan and Dad Robert:
'First we are going to wake Daddy up with a cup of coffee
in bed, then spoil him rotten with his presents. 
Then go and enjoy a beautiful afternoon
with Daddy and our Grandfathers!!
After all that we are going to have Pizza with Daddy
because he loves Pizza' 











Thomas and Dad Michael:
'We are having lunch at my grandparent's house because it's a Father's Day tradition for Grandpa to cook a BBQ lunch for us' 



                    Hunter and Dad Lawrence:

'Hunter will be taking Daddy out for lunch and then to see the footy together. Their favourite team is Carlton. Then they will have a kick of the footy at home in the backyard. Go Blues!'









We hope all of the Dads enjoy their Sunday! XX


Wednesday 21 August 2013

Last Newsletter

You should have all received our last newsletter by now, which is being replaced by the various social media platforms we have established!

In case you missed it, here are all the links you need to keep up to date:


Facebook 

www.facebook.com/bettinamanagement


Twitter 

www.twitter.com/Bettina_Mgmt or @Bettina_Mgmt




Instagram 

www.instagram.com/bettinamanagement or @bettinamanagement




YouTube

 www.youtube.com/user/bettinamanagement 



Feel free to interact with us on your platform of choice, and don't forget that you can subscribe to our blog via emails to receive alerts when we publish a new post by subscribing to the right of this page at the 'Follow us by email' box! XX

Friday 16 August 2013

Flashback Friday!


Another Flashback Friday for some of our longest standing members! 

Between them, Harry, Georgie and Emmaline have worked for campaigns such as Moose Toys, Target, Myer, Smith Family, L'Oreal Fashion Shows, Bossini, Bardot, Russell Athletics and Lincraft! 

Again, a big thank you to the parents for being a huge help over the years, now for our favourite part - the flashback photos!


Harry 2007 - current



Georgie 2009-current 



Emmaline 2006 - current (7 years of membership, wow!)





Friday 9 August 2013

Reminder, reminder, reminder!


Waiting for something to do? 



Remember to update your child's clothing size as soon as they change! We cannot stress the importance of this enough. We submit children for jobs according to their clothing size, and if their size is wrong on AT2, we will have the clients responding like this at the casting:



If anyone needs any help, remember you can always call us on 1300 888 611 or check out this post if you need a refresher - A Fool Proof Guide to AT2 - Part 2

Have a great weekend! XX 

Friday 2 August 2013

Flashback Friday!


Wow, have a look at some of our gorgeous little stars from 2009 to this year! A huge shout out to the parents of Zack, Lucy and Marcus for making all of those last minute castings and bookings possible and congratulations on your 4th year as a Bettina member!! 
These are just too cute not to share...


Zack 2009-current
Some clients Zack has worked for over the years include; Dimmeys, Target, Lincraft, Loreal Fashion Show and Lexus.



Lucy 2009-current
Some clients Lucy has worked for over the years include; Dimmeys, Loreal Fashion Show, Designer Kidz, Lincraft, Melbourne Storm, Target, Myer, Roxy and Russell Athletics.



Marcus 2009 - current
Some clients Marcus has worked for over the years include; Rio Underwear, Mossimo Clothing, The Glen shopping centre, Winners & Losers and Target.


Stay tuned over the next few weeks to see who's next! XX

Friday 26 July 2013

A Communication Guide


Hi all,

Please refer to this table for any contact you need to make with our office!

Hopefully it is helpful in terms of direct contact.

Contact details:

Department
Email
Contact Number
Accounts
1300 888 611
Aspire Entertainment (VIC)
1300 658 012
Attitude Studios
1300 662 674
AT2
1300 8527 8478
Castings feedback
1300 888 611
Classes (NSW, QLD, WA)
1300 888 611
Customer Relations
1300 888 611
Rewards Card
03 9417 9000
Social Media
1300 888 611

Who to contact when?
Accounts: Clarification on membership payments or anything financial

Aspire Entertainment: Booking courses or for further information

Attitude Studios:  To order additional photographs or to follow up pre purchased orders

AT2: Enquiries about online profile, making amendments to details

Castings: Ask for Anna regarding job payments

Classes: If you are in NSW, QLD or WA and are in need of your complimentary classes, it is your responsibility to contact us to book them in. Classes are run quarterly on set dates, if you are unable to make a date you will be placed on a waiting list and be contacted for the next round, to enquire about dates or to book.

Customer relations: Enquiries regarding your child’s profile including progress, updating details or general membership queries

Rewards Card: Enquiries about rewards card details or to follow up replacement cards

Social Media: If you have any questions about open casting calls posted on Facebook, any job listings posted, questions or ideas for the blog, behind the scene shots or unpaid job images to be posted.