Become a talent
Henderson Represents Inc. Talent Agency encourages both union and non-union actors to submit their material for Commercial
representation. The Agency does not allow “walk-ins” and will only consider “mailed-in submissions”. Emailed “submissions”,
unless previously approved, are heavily discouraged. To be considered for representation with HRI Talent, please mail a submission to:
HRI Talent
Henderson Represents Inc.
11846 Ventura Blvd. #302
Studio City, CA 91604
Attention: New Talent
You need to provide us with a cover letter, headshot and resume:
Cover letter: A brief note explaining who you are, why you are seeking representation and anything else that you feel may be of importance in setting you apart from other actors.
HEADSHOT: A color 8 x 10 headshot is preferred however any good, clear shot that accurately captures who you are regardless of size and color are acceptable.
RESUME: Your resume should be attached to the back of your headshot and be up-to-date.
Include all TV/Film/Theater work, training, languages and skills. If you are new in the industry, just let us know.
Faq
Q: I have submitted for representation. How long does it take to hear back?
A: The turn-around time varies per Agency however 4 – 6 weeks is the general average. If you have not heard back from an agency within that time it is suggested that you resubmit in 6 months if you have yet to secure representation.
Q: What do I bring to an agency meeting?
A: You must always bring a headshot and resume with you regardless of how you obtained the meeting or the means in which your material was initially submitted. Additional photos are welcomed but they must be printed. Bringing in a CD, tablet, cell, etc., full of headshots or photos is not accepted. If you have a hardcopy of your reel make sure it’s a duplicate as you may be asked to leave it behind. You can also send a link to your reel or other edited material prior to your meeting. Each Agency and Agent is different so be sure to follow their instructions including whether they want a monologue or commercial read ready. Child Actors: Prepare for meetings by bringing a couple of candid photos of your child and a resume/cover letter. Professional photos are not necessary but they must be of the child only. Group, holiday, costume photos etc., are not recommended. A head and shoulder and/or a full body head to toe shot are recommended. The resume/cover letter should include your child’s name, your contact information, sizes, stats, interests, training (if applicable), baby-firsts; crawling, walking (if applicable) and describe their personality. For children over age 5, a 15-30 second commercial, 60 second monologue and/or a cold-reading may be requested.
Q: What is a Franchised Agent?
A: A "franchised agent" is a person, company or corporation that has entered into an agreement with SAG-AFTRA. They agree to abide by special rules and conditions when dealing with performers who work within SAG and AFTRA's jurisdiction. In many cities, SAG-AFTRA members are required to work only with franchised agents/agencies for the purpose of securing and negotiating employment contracts.
Q: How does an agent become franchised?
A: According to SAG: “In order to receive and maintain a franchise from SAG-AFTRA the applicant must demonstrate that the agency is a legitimate business, registered with the state or city when required, that, among other things, maintains proper office space, surety bonds and client trust accounts. The agent must also demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the entertainment/agency business.”
Q: What is the difference between a manager and an agent?
A: Although both agents and managers function similarly at times a basic distinction between the two is that agents negotiate and service employment contracts, while managers engage in creative introductions for the overall management of the artist's career. SAG has a great page of information regarding this question as it applies to parents of child actors. http://www.sagaftra.org/content/agents-and-managers
Q: How do I join SAG/AFTRA?
A: You must book a SAG project to become eligible to join the union. The majority of actors book their first union job via a SAG commercial. Your Agent will advise you through this process.
Q: Any contract signing?
A: Actors are requested to sign one year contracts in the area of representation agreed upon; commercials, theatrical and/or print.
Q: What does exclusivity mean?
A: Los Angeles is an exclusive city. If you sign with Agency A for Commercials only, you cannot sign with another Agency B for commercials while under contract. If Agency B wants to sign you for Theatrical you are free to do so. However this only applies to Los Angeles City and it’s environ. If you move to or want to seek representation in another major city such as New York, Chicago, Miami, San Francisco, etc., you can sign with any agency for any area regardless of L.A. contracts. Basically, if the job originates in Los Angeles and you have representation in L.A. your other Agencies in different cities have no jurisdiction over it. And vice versa.
Q: Commissions. (What do I pay my Agent?)
A: Your agent may only receive a commission when and if you receive compensation for your employment (“book a job”). Agents may not charge upfront fees of any kind. Industry standards: 10% collected on all Union employment, 20% collected on all Print and non-union employment.
Q: My Child wants to be an actor. Where do I start?
A: Enroll your child in an acting class, drama school or academy etc., if age appropriate. Research Talent Agencies & Managers who have Youth Departments and learn how to submit your child for consideration. Most will request the same material, etc. You can find SAG Franchised (approved) Talent Agencies by visiting: www.sag.org
Q: Work Permits
A: Entertainment Work Permits are applicable to minors only. Actors under 18 years old cannot work without a current California Entertainment Work Permit. It is recommended that you have a permit for your child prior to interviewing for talent representation. For more information about application requirements and its process please visit the CA Gov website: www.dir.ca.gov/dlse **For immediate assistance call, Children in Film at (818) 901-0082 x (102)
Q: Coogan Accounts
A: The Coogan Blocked Trust Account is required for actors under the age of 18 in order to accept work. You must open an account before your child walks onto set. The Coogan Account is a savings account that cannot be accessed until an actor turns 18. 15% of gross wages earned will be withdrawn from every check/payment and placed into the account. You will be helped through this process at the time of booking. A few banks are familiar with Coogan Accounts. Contact your bank to find out if they open this type of trust account and what their branch requires. Some may have you visit a branch to “set” it up but not officially open it until a job is booked. At that point it will take you minutes to complete the account.
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