Information for B.C. Actors, Performers and Background Performers (extras)

After California and New York, B.C. is now the third busiest film and television centre in North America. If you are looking for a career in this industry, you’ve come to the right place.

To get work as a performer or background performer (extra) you’ll need to use the services of a talent agent.

Talent agents are in the business of supplying acting talent to television commercials, music videos, TV series, pilots, movies of the week and feature films.

Professional talent agents make their living entirely from commissions on performers’ earnings. They are not acting teachers, photographers or modeling schools.

The agent’s job is to find work for their clients, either by sending them out on a job or arranging an audition. An agent can also negotiate and monitor individual contracts.

The rules for talent agents in B.C. In British Columbia, talent agents must be licensed by the Ministry of Labour. There are also rules on commissions, fees, photos, and paying wages.

Commissions

The most an agent can charge in commission is 15 percent of earnings. The agent cannot charge a commission that would result in you receiving less than minimum wage plus vacation pay for your hours on set. Note: 'booking fees' charged directly to a producer by an agent are not considered part of the performer's income.

Fees

Talent agents in British Columbia are not allowed to charge ‘registration’ or ‘annual maintenance’ fees.

Photos

Photos are a vital tool when promoting an actor, and it is the actor’s right to choose his/her own photographer. You will be required to provide from 10 to 100 headshots. Actors do not need portfolios or composites.

Agencies may recommend photographers, but they should not require you to use a specific photographer. Your photos may be included in an agency promotional binder.

Children and background performers (extras) do not need professional photos. Agents who represent children and extras may provide or arrange photos.

The most an agent can charge for photos is $25/yr. The agents photo fees are only payable once you get paid work through that agent.

Many talent agents now use on-line photo services such as ‘The Casting Workbook’ or 'The Link.' The cost for this service is around $45/year, payable directly to the service.

Paying Wages

Most talent agents receive the wages on behalf of their clients from a producer. This gives the agent an opportunity to ensure the contract of employment (‘deal memo’) was met and lets the agent calculate their commission.

An agent must pay a performer within five days of receiving payment from the producer. If the producer’s cheque is written on a bank outside B.C., the agent has 12 days to pay the performer.

How do I get paid?
Some agents may deposit your cheque in an agency trust account and write a cheque (less the commission) to you. Others may hold your cheque until they receive the commission payment direct from you.

What if I have problems with an agent?
If you haven't been paid, or have been overcharged for commissions or other fees, and you cannot resolve the matter between yourself and the agent, you should contact the nearest office of the Employment Standards Branch.

You should also report problems with talent agents to the Better Business Bureau and the Talent Agents and Managers Association of Canada (TAMAC) at (416) 963-0100.

Union of BC Performers
400 - 856 Homer Street
Vancouver, BC V6B 2W5
Phone: (604) 689-0727 Fax: (604) 689-1145

The Talent Agents and Managers
Association of Canada (TAMAC)
19 Isabella Street
Toronto, Ontario
M4Y 1M7 Phone: (416) 963-0100

The Better Business Bureau of Mainland British Columbia
404-788 Beatty St
Vancouver, BC
V6B 2M1 Phone: (604) 682-2711

Protecting Yourself

Most talent agents are specialized. For example, some agents only supply talent to television commercials. Others may only work with children, background performers (extras) or main talent. Beware of agencies that:

• Guarantee work;
• Use pressure tactics, discounts or make promises of instant work and money;
• Require you take classes or workshops from them or a specified school.
• Require you use an in-house or specified photographer, or
• Ask you to sign a contract without giving you time to think about your decision or without suggesting you check it with a lawyer or industry professional.

Talent agents may approach you in public places. Always ask for a business card and take time to investigate the agency before you sign anything.

A talent agency is not an acting school. A talent agent may recommend you get further training but should not require you to take any in-house courses. Some workshops may be conducted by professionals, but this is rare. Actors receive training at university/college courses, private lessons, or workshops from reputable individuals.

Finally, no legitimate agency will put pressure on you to sign or pay for anything. Always read everything carefully and be sure you understand everything completely. If anything is unclear to you, take it to a lawyer or someone knowledgeable in the industry for a second opinion.