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