Lights, Camera, Action; Tilly

Posted on by Bettina Management

Everyone’s motivation for joining this exciting industry is different, for some they simply want to see their name up in lights and their face on billboards around the country. For Tilly’s mum however, she just wanted to see her little girl get her confidence back. After attending many auditions and booking some amazing campaigns, Liz has seen her daughter come to life again and has been kind enough to share their story.

Tilly
How long have you been with the agency?
Almost 2 years
What was your first job?
Bulla – which was really funny as my last name is Bulle (said the same as Bulla)
What was it like going to your first casting?
It was scary but exciting at the same time and I had to eat meringue and crackers and sour cream
How did you feel when you were told that you booked the job?
I was in the car when Bianca rang Mum and it was on speakerphone and I cried because I was very very happy and shocked
How did you learn your lines?
My first lines I had to learn were for the Xbox One S commercial and Mum and I practiced them in the car
What was the best part of working on set?
I got to meet lots of new people
What things did you find difficult or challenging on set?
Getting to know everyone because I was shy at the start
How did you feel seeing yourself on TV for the first time?
Very very excited
Liz
Why did you decide to join Tilly up to an agency?
 
Because Tilly’s younger brother has Autism and for four years she spent the whole time waiting at Paediatrician or therapy appointments and the confident happy little girl was losing her confidence.  We had been told more than once that she was so photogenic and could be a model and one day I just googled child models and applied to Bettina after reading lots of reviews.  We had hesitation and received lots of comments about signing Tilly up initially but anyone who knows Tilly and our family see only the joy it brings.
What was it like taking her to her first casting?
I think I was more nervous than Tilly.  Thank goodness for the emails from Bettina especially the Castings Guides that tell you what to do, what to wear etc.  It is very strange as you are there only a few minutes and I don’t usually go in so have no idea what happens.  Tilly was very lucky in that she got the job on her first casting.  Now she just loves going to the castings and meeting people and having fun.
What is the best part of seeing Tilly working on set?
Seeing her come alive.  For all the stress we have sometimes getting there – either on time, or without spilling drinks down our white tshirts – it makes it all worthwhile seeing her having fun, doing what she loves and so naturally.
What do you find challenging about having Tilly working in the industry?
After Tilly’s Xbox commercial we received lots of media feedback about her being dressed up to look like a mini adult and wearing makeup which was hard to take as a parent and a little confronting and my instinct was to comment and protect her.  They seemed to miss the whole concept of the ad was to make her look like a mini adult.  However I’m glad that happened right at the beginning as it made us so much better at what we do, it made us realise that this is what happens when people judge someone without knowing and what celebrities go through all the time, that you need to be thick-skinned but with a smile and a wonderful heart.
What is it like seeing Tilly on TV?
It’s funny.  It’s still a bit surreal, even now.  Tilly’s Dad is worst he googles and YouTube for weeks searching for her commercials etc and he usually finds them first.  The longest wait was for the AHM Medibank ad which was played throughout the Big Bash when all Tilly’s friends parents were either calling or texting saying we’ve just seen Tilly on telly and we still hadn’t.  In the end we set the TV to record all night and ended up forwarding through the cricket and just watching the ads.  We always get great feedback from her friends and they say it’s so lovely and weird having Tilly on their TV in the front room with them.  But what I love best is how Tilly is just Tilly – there is no bragging or drama about her, it’s just her “job” and we are so lucky to have found her dreams early on and help her to realise them.

Watch their interview here:

Lights, Camera, Action; Ava & Olivia

Posted on by Bettina Management

Anyone who works with toddlers will know that one is enough and two can be a nightmare! But Sammy has been making it work with her gorgeous twin girls over the last couple of years when they’ve been booked for some amazing campaigns. She chats to us about what it’s like having twin toddlers on set and also their experience working as a whole family for Elevit.

 

Why did you decide to join the girls up to an agency?

It sounded like a fun thing to try – The girls are identical twins and I had a lot of people saying they would be great.

 

What did you look for when deciding on an agency for the girls?

First they had to have a good reputation, some great opportunities for the kids and, of course a high standard professionalism – treating the children well.

 

What made you choose Bettina Management?

The great reputation, track record of amazing clients, word of mouth from others in the industry, and ease of communication.

 

What was it like taking them to their first casting?

So exciting, I was really happy to simply show my babies off – anything else was just a bonus

 

What is the best part of seeing the girls working on set?

Being with them and be able to ‘work’ as a new mum, it was a great thing to look forward to. It’s so much fun being on set, everyone always loves and takes such good care of the kids.

 

What do you find challenging about having the girls working in the industry?

The older the twins get, the harder it is to keep them under control!

 

What is it like seeing the girls on TV for the first time?

We especially love seeing the girls on TV and hearing when friends and family also see them – we have family in Adelaide and they are always delighted when they show up on the screen.

 

What is your favourite job that the girls has done?

They are all so fun, Elevit was so memorable as it was with all three of us and the girls were still such little babies. It was shot so beautifully and such an incredible experience.

 

Do you have any advice for parents with young babies wanting to get into the industry?

Just go for it, listen to what they have to say and don’t take it too seriously.

 

Watch their interview here >>

Lights, Camera, Action; Aydin

Posted on by Bettina Management

There’s nothing quite like seeing your little one on TV for the first time, and Aydin’s parents have been lucky enough to watch their son on their screens many times. We sat down with Aydin and his dad to have a chat about their experience so far.

 

Aydin

How long have you been with the agency?

2 years

What was your first job?

Royal Caribbean Cruises

What was it like going to your first casting?

Strange, but the people were nice – the director let me stand on his board room table .. I was like “wow”.

How did you feel when you were told that you booked the job?

*very* Happy –  I lost my first tooth 4 days before and I thought they would not want me.

What was the best part of working on set?

The Yummy food  

You got to go on a cruise for a job – can you tell us a bit about that?

I know .. my first cruise ever –it was sooo much fun. I got to go on the bumper cars, play on the X-box, go up in the sky view crane.  Awesome.

What things did you find difficult or challenging on set?

There was lots of waiting around and it gets boring.

How did you feel seeing yourself in a catalogue for the first time?

Weird .. but my family and friends loved it.

 

Albert

Why did you decide to join Aydin up to an agency?

I used to work in the industry, so I have some idea what to look for. Aydin is very mature for his age and takes direction very well. I figured he would be good at remembering scripts and has a very sociable personality.  He’s very easy on the eye as well .. that helps

What was it like taking him to his first casting?

A bit out of the ordinary, the advertising company was in a city tower. I wasn’t sure how Aydin would take it – but the staff were all wonderful and made him feel very comfortable.

What is the best part of seeing Aydin working on set?

How well he gets along with all the staff. They love his personality and he leaves his mark wherever he goes 

What was it like taking the whole family on a cruise for the shoot?

Well only his mother went – there was some debate over who should go .. actually, who am I kidding ..no debate really ..  Mum just decided. They had a wonderful time and I was extremely jealous!

What do you find challenging about having Aydin working in the industry?

Two things really .. firstly “getting” to the auditions especially in Sydney traffic – never fun!  And it can be disruptive. It is a commitment that all parties need to uphold. If your agent is putting you forward then you need to be sure you show up.

The other challenge is dealing with the reality that not every job is your job.  If you approach the process in the right way the industry can teach your child valuable life lessons.  Well .. that’s how we approach it.

What is it like seeing Aydin on TV?

It’s a very proud moment indeed.

 

Watch their interview here:

 

Lights, Camera, Action; Ashley

Posted on by Bettina Management

It’s not every day you get to jump aboard a cruise ship on an all expenses paid holiday! Little Ashley was lucky enough to be booked for client Royal Carribean Cruises, which meant her and her family were treated to the Royal treatment aboard their luxury cruiseliner, in exchange for a few hours of modelling work which saw Ashley featured in their international advertising brochures. We spoke to her and her sister, Jennifer, about their once in a lifetime experience!

 

Ashley

  1.     How long have you been with the agency?

2 years

 

  1.     What was your first job?

My first job was for Royal Carribean cruises.

 

  1.     What was it like going to your first casting?

I was nervous going to my first casting, but I had a great time and now I have improved and don’t feel so nervous anymore.

 

  1.     How did you feel when you were told that you booked the job?

I was so excited to be going on a holiday with my family.

 

  1.     What was the best part of working on set?

I love getting to see all parts of the cruise and playing in the water park.

 

  1.     You got to go on a cruise for a job – can you tell us a bit about that?

We got to see everything and did a bit a modelling for their pamphlets. It was really fun and I loved being on holiday with my family.

 

  1.     What things did you find difficult or challenging on set?

Sometimes I get a bit nervous, but I think I have improved a lot.

 

Jennifer

  1.     Why did you decide to join Aydin/Ashley up to an agency?

    We noticed that she was interested in modelling and having her photo taken, so we thought we should let her have a try.

 

  1.     What was it like taking her to her first casting?

It was nerve-racking for all of us but we were so proud of her.

 

  1.     What is the best part of seeing Ashley working on set?

Just seeing her having fun and doing something that she loves.

 

  1.     What was it like taking the whole family on a cruise for the shoot?

It was a great experience and we are very grateful for the opportunity.

 

  1.     What do you find challenging about having Ashley working in the industry?

It can be nerve-racking for the family and you don’t want her to be disappointed, but it always turns out great.

 

Watch here>>

Lights, Camera, Action; Hanna

Posted on by Bettina Management

Being a model as your first part-time job isn’t a typical pathway, but Hanna makes it work! As one of the few regular models of Cotton On’s teen label, Free by Cotton On, Hanna’s modeling career is taking off in front of our eyes.

Cameron, Hanna’s doting dad, has been on this journey with her every step of the way. We got the chance to speak to Hanna and Cameron about this experience and hear things from their perspective.

 

Age: 14 years old

Signed: 2017

Clients: Cotton On, Holden & Attitude Studios

 

Hanna

How long have you been with Bettina Management for?

I have been with Bettina for around 18 months

What was your first job?

It was a modeling job for Free by Cotton On

What was it like going to your first casting?

My first casting was a bit nerve-racking but it was very exciting and it went pretty quickly actually.

What has been your favourite job so far? Why?

My favourite job so far has been all my shoots for cotton on free, because I have a lot of fun doing them and they have a great crew and the other girls I do it with are amazing and really funny.

What’s the best part of working on set?

The best parts of working on set are that you just have a really good time with the people you’re doing it with and taking the photos reminds you that you’re going to be seen and it makes you really excited.

What did you find difficult on set?

The only things I found difficult were getting nervous that when all these people see your photo you get a thought about what they are going to say and their thoughts on you after they’ve seen them.

How did you feel seeing your photos online for the first time?

I was so excited and my hands were shaking and I was all tingly but I still got a bit shy every time someone wanted to look at it.

What things have you learnt from working in the modelling industry?

I have learnt how to walk properly on a runway and how to just relax when someone was taking a photo of me; I have also learnt how to deal with peoples thoughts on me and take them all positively.

What do your friends say when they see your photos?

They say they look so good and I’m really cute and I’m good at what I do.

What is your dream job?

My dream job is to become a Victoria’s Secret supermodel but still study biology, physiology and zoology on the side.

 

Cameron

Why did you decide to join Hanna up to an agency?

We decided to join Hanna up to an agency mostly to gain guidance and an experienced idea of how to proceed carefully with her career as a model.

What made you choose Bettina Management?

We have a friend of a friend who is a portrait photographer. We asked her who had a good reputation in the industry of child modelling and Bettina was their first choice.

What was it like taking Hanna to her first casting?

Very exciting for both of us. It was a very positive experience, the staff were very positive and enthusiastic.

What is the best part of seeing Hanna work on set?

By far the best part of seeing Hanna work on set is seeing how happy she is to be modelling, she’s smiling for the entire time.

What is it like seeing Hanna in print?

It was a little surreal at first but now it is quite normal. Seeing her in a shop window recently was especially exciting.

What do you find challenging about having Hanna work in the industry?

Probably the late notice of some castings that are held by the clients and also the repetitive paperwork involved.

In what ways has working in the industry impacted Hanna in her life?

Her self-confidence has grown immensely since her first job. I think she doubted her abilities at the start but she just gets in and gets the job done now. She listens much better to direction now than before.

Do you have any tips for new parents entering the industry?

Be patient, it doesn’t always happen overnight. Judging your child’s maturity is also important. It has to be the child that wants to do it.

How do you feel about the use of social media such as Instagram to promote Hanna as a model?

Hanna and Lukas have Instagram accounts for modelling. Neither of them have received work through social media but I think it is important to get their profile out there. I manage and have 100% control over their accounts.

 

Watch their interview here:

 

Lights, Camera, Action; Melody

Posted on by Bettina Management

Melody’s parents signed her up to Bettina Management for a bit of fun, and to see where it would take their little girl. Little did they know they were going to score a job themselves! With real families becoming more and more popular, the Zhou Family took full advantage of this.

Age: 2 years old

Signed: 2017

Clients: Britax

 

Laura

Why did you decide to join Melody up to an agency?

When Melody was very little, we found she’s quite into being in front of the cameras. Once we lifted the camera, she stared us with smiles and poses. She knew what’s happening and has interests in it. So I thought maybe we can sign up with a kids modelling agency to see if she has this sort of talent. If she gets job, it’s a great opportunity to build up her confidence and get some cheering experiences through it. So I found Bettina just for a try at the beginning, but Melody really got some jobs, which were really awesome experiences.

What was it like working all together?

Actually, it was very exciting for me before we had the first advertisement shooting as a family. The atmosphere was warm and sweet. It’s a very unique experience for us.

What was the best part about doing a shoot as a family?

To us, it’s more like playing together, no stress or hassle at all. Melody enjoyed the whole shoot period so much. She was curious of the big cameras and professional spots light and everything. We were so happy to see her and ourselves of course enjoyed the shooting.

How did you feel when you saw your photos come out?

It feels wonderful. It’s so great to have some cherished professional photos on advertisement as a family, especially when we are still seeing our photos being posted on the brands social media.

What do you find challenging about having Melody in this industry?

With her growth, if she’s getting more chances and jobs. I’m a little bit worried about the overwhelming adult working environments to her, as she knows more and learning so quickly from others. Over makeup, industry competition, I don’t want these step into her little world too early, but I think these all can be adjusted if we doing it properly.

What job would you love to see Melody get?

We don’t have particularly preferences, but we will definitely screen the opportunities to see if it’s suit to her age or not.

Do you have any advice for other families who are approached to work together?

Every kid has potential to be a little super-model, you never know. And if you get a job for advertisement shooting as a family, just relax and enjoy. Bring some more clothes and accessories to the venue so the photographers can select the appropriate one to match. And don’t forget to bring some snacks for the kids.

 

Watch their interview here;

Lights, Camera, Action; Celine

Posted on by Bettina Management

It is not every day you book a lead role in a TV Series! Celine knew she wanted to be an actress and at only 15 years old her dream came true! Mustangs FC is a TV Series on ABC3 about a group of girls starting their own all female soccer team, whilst still juggling teenage life. It took a few months but Celine secured the role and will begin working on Season 2 soon.

Celine and her mother Julia had a chat with us recently about how life has been since booking the job.

 

Age: 15

Signed: 2016

Clients: Mustangs FC

 

Celine

How long have you been with Bettina Management?

I was with Bettina for almost 2 years

How did you feel when you found out you booked the job?

When I booked mustangs I felt so amazing because I felt like I was finally getting validation of how good I thought I was and how good other people thought I was and that was amazing

What was it like playing a major role in a TV series?

It was surreal to think that I played such a big part in the series

How did you learn your lines?

I made sure that I focussed on understanding the meaning of the scene rather than memorizing lines.

What was the best part of working on set?

Being exposed to everything that happens behind the scene of a show.

What things did you find difficult on set?

Having to maintain an air of professionalism because at times, it didn’t feel like I was at work

How did you feel seeing yourself on TV for the first time?

So surreal, I would grow up watching Lizzie McGuire and stuff and I was so certain that I would be an actor just like her like I knew it just like I knew that I needed water to survive or that the sun was going to come out the next day, it felt like it had came full circle and it was really great

What is your dream job in the industry?

Apart from being an actress, I would like to try my hand at directing if I ever have the chance

Do you have any advice for other kids who want to make it in this industry?

Find a good agent, practice your craft, be confident, be professional, be persistent

 

Julia

Why did you decide to join Celine up to an agency?

I knew it was the best way to help Celine be seen by others for what she could do

How did you feel when Celine booked Mustangs?

I was really, really happy I couldn’t believe it, it just came so quick it was awesome.

What is the best part of seeing Celine work on set?

Seeing her so happy and seeing her become more experienced and independent

What did you find challenging about having Celine work in the industry?

Constantly worrying about how people would perceive her and how she would react if something bad was said about her.

What was it like seeing Celine on TV?

It was heart-warming. And surprising at how good she was.

Do you have any advice for parents wanting to join their parents up to an agency?

Listen to your children, make sure they know what they want, be professional, make sure they are always on task but don’t hover around them.

Watch their interview here:

Lights, Camera, Action; Willow & Harlow

Posted on by Bettina Management

At only 1-year-old Willow and Harlow have already made more progress in their acting careers than some adults! Playing baby Manisha, a shared role, in hit Channel 10 series “The Wrong Girl”.

It was quite a whirlwind for the girls (and their parents too), after only being on books for two short months, getting an availability text one day and then two days later being told they had booked the role! Ashlea is the mother of these two cuties and gave us an insight into life with twin babies on set.

 

Age: 1-year-old

Signed: 2017

Clients: The Wrong Girl (TV Series), Bupa, Britax, Back In Very Small Business (TV Series)

 

Ashlea

Why did you decide to join the girls up to an agency?

We decided to join the girls up to the agency for a bit of fun for them and also to help them gain some confidence and hopefully exposure.

 

What made you choose Bettina Management?

I chose Bettina Management because both my husband and I had heard great things about the agency and after having a look into it we felt confident in the decision

 

What was it like taking the girls to their first casting?

The girl’s first casting was actually quite nerve racking for me, it was for a Honda TV Commercial. I guess it’s the unknown but once you meet everyone there is a sense of calm and comfort.

 

What do you find challenging about having the girls working in the industry?

Probably the most challenging thing I find about having two girls working in the industry is the last minute call times, but you quickly learn it is all part of the package and get used to it.

 

What’s it like juggling two babies on set?

Juggling two babies on set can be a handful but everyone is always so helpful and willing to keep one entertained

 

What is your favourite job the girls have done?

The Wrong Girl would have to be my favourite job so far, we worked so closely with everyone for an extended period of time so it almost became like a second family for the girls.

 

What was it like seeing the girls on screen for the first time?

It was so exciting! A proud moment for me.

 

Do you have any advice for parents with young babies wanting to get into the industry?

Go for it! The girls have honestly had so much fun throughout their shoots and it’s been so rewarding to watch

 

Watch her interview here:

The Bettina Benefits Program

Posted on by Bettina Management

Reward yourself with ‘Bettina Benefits’

Each family on our books will receive a complimentary subscription to the Bettina Benefits program , provided by Lifestyle Rewards. This gives you access to exclusive benefits and special discounts with thousands of retailers offering products and services across a fantastic range of categories like groceries, fuel, fashion, automotive, travel and wellbeing to name a few. Members can save $100’s of dollars on everyday items and services!

You will receive your subscription email from Lifestyle Rewards with login details to Bettina Benefits about 3- 4 weeks after your photo shoot. Logging into the portal is easy from your desktop, tablet or smartphone! If you miss the email or lose the details you can always access it with your registered email by using the forgotten password link.

Apart from your login details, it will also have information on how to access the latest online directory and instructions for downloading the app for your mobile device.

Logging in:Screen Shot 2016-08-18 at 10.41.12 am


In the body of the email, you will find your username and password.

Go to the Bettina Benefits website:

https://bettina.withlovefrom.com.au/

Enter username and password

Once done successfully, this discount page should appear:

Screen Shot 2016-08-18 at 10.43.43 am

As you will be able to see, the opportunities are endless. There are theme parks, electronics, automotive, fashion, fitness, health, beauty, travel and many more outlets to get serious discounts and savings from. Simply follow the prompts to purchase discount vouchers and gift cards for immediate download.

To get the most out of the Bettina Benefits program, it is important that you identify three easy redemption methods for our rewards partners:

Pre-Purchase

To obtain discounts on gift cards discount retailer, movie or theme park tickets, log on to the member portal or digital app and utilise the secure online shopping facility.

Instant Digital Delivery

To obtain discounts on digital gift cards, discount movie & theme park tickets, log in to the member portal or digital app and utilise our secure online shopping facility, for instant delivery to your preferred email address.

Online Promo Code

To access the discounts and deals at participating online stores, simply enter the promotional code featured on the offer page on the member portal or digital app, or follow the link as provided.

Please be aware, that brands and offers are susceptible to change and you must adhere to the terms and conditions before purchasing to ensure that you fully understand the limits of the purchase (such as how long it is valid for, if there are designated stores, when it is exempt etc).

Don’t forget to download the app! You can download the Bettina Benefits app from the App Store for easy deal searching for free.

You will also receive a monthly e-newsletter, which is packed with great news offers, special features and competitions for you to enjoy. Please note these newsletters are not from Bettina Management, but are part of your complimentary subscription to Bettina Benefits. If you wish to unsubscribe follow the link at the bottom of the email.

If you need help or would like more information on using Bettina Benefits, please contact Lifestyle Rewards on 1300 887 787 or email info@lifestylerewards.com.au

Industry Lingo

Posted on by Bettina Management

Booked – This means talent have been confirmed for a job with one of our clients. Congratulations!

Brief – A brief is a notice the casting department receives from a client. The brief is an outline of roles the client are looking to cast. This is how we know who to put forward, e.g. 4 year old girls or 10 year old boys of Asian descent.

Call-sheet – A call-sheet will be sent to talent the day before a job, usually for film and TV. It is generally sent late in the afternoon and it will have all the details about where talent need to be, what time and what scenes need to be shot on the day.

Call-time – A call-time is what is found on the call-sheet. It will have talent name, role, agent and what time talent will be required.

Cancellation – Unfortunately the client, for a variety of reasons, is no longer is able or willing to proceed with the scheduled booking or shoot.

Casting call – This means talent have been confirmed to attend a casting (meet and greet) with one of our clients to check suitability for a role they have in mind.

Chat to camera – Usually popular in an audition for TV or film work, the client will ask talent to speak directly to the camera either saying a few lines or an introduction. This gives the client a good idea about confidence and speaking ability on film.

Checking availability – Checking availability means that a client is interested in a child, but has not confirmed them for a job. In order to start organising the schedule, they often check to see if potential talent are available on the shoot dates.

Client –  A person or organisation using the services of Bettina Management to book talent, e.g. Target.

Fitting – A fitting is a paid job where a client requests a model to try on various outfits who meets specific sizing requirements.

On hold – On hold for a shoot or booking means that a child has been shortlisted for the role, and must be available – if required – for the shoot dates.

Self-test – A self-test is an audition filmed from home. This must be sent to us so we can pass onto the client. All relevant details would be supplied.

Wardrobe call – A wardrobe call is generally for film and TV. This is when you are called in to try on outfits and costumes before shooting or filming. You are paid for a wardrobe call.

Weather hold  – If you are booked for a job, a client may let us know that the shoot is booked *weather permitting*. This means that the shoot will be outdoors, and they will need to check closer to the date to ensure the weather is suitable. If it isn’t – the shoot will be rescheduled.