Expert: Laura Interval - 7/5/2008

Question
Hi Laura,  I am 10 years old and since I can remember I wanted to be an actress.  I dream about it even imagine myself on TV and movies.  I finally convince my parent to help me. my mom went to see Avenue productions in Fort Lauderdale where she paid $350 for pictures plus $300 for comp cards and $210 for web site.  my mom was not to comfortable paying all this money up front but she saw how much I wanted it so she did it.  it has been more than six weeks now since I receive the comp. cards. the agency never call me for anything.  Is that the way things done or something is not right here.
The agency is in Fort Lauderdale but I live in Miami Dade Florida.  the agency is not exclusive. should I look for an other agency  and do you know some good agencies I can ask my mom to contact.  they have a web site:  www. avemodels.com
my pictures are on the website.  

Answer
Hi Cathy
Wow.  You have a lot of vision for a 10 year old!  I'm so glad you came here to get more information!
I guess my first question is why did you go to Ft. Lauderdale if you live in the much larger market of Miami?  
I went on the Avenue Models website to look for your pictures.  Unfortunately, they have so many clients, without your last name, I just don't have the time to surf their site.  They have a huge number of clients... I wonder how many agents they have?
I can not tell you if they are legitimate.  It is a tough call for me to make without knowing them.  I can tell you that the fees you paid are astronomical . . . and in my opinion way too high for a child.
That said, it is not all that unusual not to hear from an agent for six weeks.  The markets are always up and down and it could very well be slow for your category in the summer.  Did you sign an exclusive agreement with them?
If not, (and I hope you didn't) I would suggest that you send your comp cards to the Miami agents for children.  But, before that if you would like, I'd be glad to look at your pictures and give you more guidance (for free).
I'm interested to see your pictures and what is on line with Avenue.
Go to my website:  
www.creative-personal-development.com/express-yourself.html
and upload your pictures in the "coach me" section.  Once I see your image, I will have a better idea of your market and what steps to take.
I wish you the best,
Laura I.