Information for Film Crews - Technical and CreativeBritish Columbia is home to a dynamic and thriving film and television industry. Some technical and creative film workers, such as Directors of Photography, Production Designers, Costume Designers and Hair and Make-up Artists opt to use an agent to represent their interests. Talent agencies are in the business of supplying acting and technical creative talent to television commercials, music videos, TV series, pilots, movies of the week and feature films. Professional talent agencies make their living entirely from commissions on performers’ earnings. If you have an agent or are thinking about getting one, you should familiarize yourself with B.C. rules for talent agencies. The Rules for Talent Agents in B.C. In British Columbia, talent agencies must be licensed by the Employment Standards Branch. There are also rules on commissions, fees, photos, and paying wages. Commissions The most an agency can charge in commission is 15 percent of earnings. The agency 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 agency are not part of a technical or creative person's income. Fees Talent agencies in British Columbia are not allowed to charge "registration" or "annual maintenance" fees. Photos The most an agency can charge for photos is $25/yr. The agency's photo fees are only payable once you get paid work through that agency. Paying Wages Most talent agencies receive wages on behalf of their clients from a producer. This gives the agency an opportunity to ensure the contract of employment ("deal memo") was met and lets the agency calculate its commission. An agency must pay a performer within 5 days of receiving payment from the producer. If the producer’s cheque is written on a bank outside B.C., the agency has 12 days to pay the performer. How do I get paid? Some agencies may deposit your earnings in an agency account and write a cheque to you after deducting their commision amount. Others may give you a cheque made out to you directly from the producer when you pay them commission on that amount. What if I have problems with an agency? 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 agency, you should contact the nearest office of the Employment Standards Branch. You should also report problems with talent agencies to the Better Business Bureau and the Talent Agents and Managers Association of Canada (TAMAC)at (416) 963-0100. Where can I find an agency? A list of licensed talent agencies is available online. Other sources of information about talent agencies are: Union of BC Performers The Talent Agents and Managers The Better Business Bureau of Mainland British Columbia |
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