“Got Agent?” is a CineGear requested panel of top industry agents, that elaborate regarding tips and “tricks” which could help you achieve your goals in pursuing a career in the filmmaking business. This year, the discussion was recorded via ZOOM and uploaded online for free watching. Read our thoughts and highlights below.
“Got Agent?”: One of the most popular panels in Cine Gear Expo
CineGear’s “Got Agent?” discussion is made of top industry agents that are ready to share their expertise in getting the best filmmaking career representation. The discussion covers how to meet and navigate the right agent to suit goals, managing expectations along the way, recommendations to stand out against the competition, and opportunities to establish your brand. I’ve attended this discussion in CineGear 2018 and I remember it was the most popular panel at the Expo. As you all know, CineGear 2020 was canceled due to COVID. However, the requested “Got Agent?” panel was recorded via ZOOM and now it’s available for online viewing. I highly recommend you watch the whole discussion, including the Q&A session (click this link). For those who’d like to dive into the essentials, we prepared the highlights below.
“Got Agent?”: Highlights
When is the right time to seek an agent?
Obviously, not at the beginning of your career. You’ll have to accumulate first a decent amount of portfolio, connections, and recommendations. Furthermore, when you’re fully loaded with jobs and opportunities that lead to the feeling that you don’t have a time finding new jobs, then it could be an indication that you need representation (=agent). At that point, the agent will find you 🙂
Is the reel important?
Absolutely! At least one demo reel is a must! However, the reel needs to be precise and focused, rather than a general reel. More is less! Do not create just a random montage of all your great shots, unless the montage indicates on your specific expertise regarding a particular project. The reel’s goal is to preset your abilities and to tell a story convincing why others should hire you.
How can I connect directly with an agent?
You can’t. You don’t call the agent. The agent will call you. It’s not acceptable to email the agent directly. However, it can be performed via finders (aka connections). Suppose you’ve done an amazing job for a production that someone is familiar with an agency, then he can try and introduce you to the agency. That’s why it’s so important to establish business connections in the industry. Also, film festivals are an ideal platform to make those connections.
Do I need to be apart of a famous production in order to be represented?
No! Agencies are looking at credits from a low budget and independent productions as well. It depends on what the agency is looking for.
What features the relationship between talents and agents?
It’s a partnership that must be driven by synergy. You will have to work together with your agent in order to find your next project. The agent can facilitate the introduction to potential clients, however, it’s on you to tie up loose ends and get the job.
Is social media presence mandatory?
Yes! You have to build a FB page, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc. Establishing your social media ecosystem is essential, that clients and agencies can find you more easily. Also, social media can reflect your personality which is an advantage. That allows the facilitation of making business connections.
Do I need a website?
Yes! However, it should be a simple website that demonstrates your professional niches. Broken links are a big no-no. The website should contain the options to watch your works, bio, and contact details.
Any last tip/advice?
Work hard! Accumulate projects, jobs, and enrich your reel. Always establish connections. Be a team player and don’t stop creating. The right agent will eventually find his/her way to you.
Filmmaker’s Path For Getting an Agent: The slide
Feel free to download and share the slide below which summarises all that important takeaways:
