Lights, Camera, Action; Vivienne

Posted on by Bettina Management

One of the wonderful things about the entertainment industry is that the possibilities are, quite literally, endless. There are no restrictions on success and it can be achieved at any age! Vivienne is the perfect example of this, having being only 5 years old when she scored a role in a Feature Film! Four callbacks over the span of a month and a role in the movie Little Monsters was hers, who knew decision making was so hard?!

Vivienne and mum Kathryn loved the whole experience and sat down with us to chat about it.

 

Vivienne

 

How long have you been with the agency?

Since I was, like five

 

What was your first job?

An ad for Aldi, I got to be hooked on a fridge

 

What was it like going to your first casting?

I was nervous. There were lots of other girls and I made friends with them while we waited.

 

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

I felt really happy

 

How did you learn your lines?

They told me words to say, and then I had to say them in sentences.

 

What was the best part of working on set?

At the end, because I was so good I got a unicorn! Everyone is really nice and mum was right there.

 

What things did you find difficult or challenging on set?

I couldn’t like, get off the fridge for ages and it got a bit boring. On the film set, sometimes we were tired or bored and then I had to fake laugh.

 

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

It felt weird but it was really good.

 

What was it like working on the set of a feature film?

On the film set, the best parts were all the cool stuff I got to do, like going on a tractor and seeing animals. I made lots of friends. The grownups were really nice. I had to miss a lot of school which was good! I got to meet the person who did the voice of Olaf, and he did the Olaf voice for us. It was really fun.

Vivienne studying her script!

Kathryn

 

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

Vivienne was always adamant that she wanted to do modeling or acting. I was unsure but decided to check it out. I googled agencies and chose Bettina as they had good reviews and were close by. I thought it was a small outlay to give her a chance!

 

What was it like taking her to her first casting?

I was really nervous! When I saw the other kids I thought they all seemed really confident and quite different from Viv. Some seemed to know the casting agent, I thought she didn’t have a chance. It was hard sending her in by herself.

 

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

Honestly, I’ve been so proud watching her working – and it is work- so hard. Even when she’s a little tired or bored, she knows this is what she wants and she keeps going. There are loads of breaks and if she ever needs some time, it’s always available.

 

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

The hardest part has been juggling other family commitments.

 

What is it like seeing Vivienne on TV?

It was amazing! I loved seeing her up there. It was interesting to see the way it all came together after watching the ad being filmed. It looked great and she looked so comfortable.

 

What was it like working on the set of a feature film?

What can I say but WOW! I never ever thought I’d be eating lunch next to an Oscar-winning actress. It was quite surreal. Everyone is just lovely and by the end of the eight-week shoot, we felt like family. We had representatives from the children’s guardian come and talk to us, to make sure we were comfortable with the process. Because there were some scary elements, they made sure they introduced these to the kids really gently and anything scary they made sure they shot it from angles so the kids weren’t actually there. The amount of people involved was really astonishing, but the kids were always made to feel like royalty. Even the stars let the kids have first dibs at the lunch table. As parents, we were always really nearby and set up with monitors if we couldn’t directly see the children. There was a nurse on set and two dramaturgs who looked after the children and coached them. By the end, they were all true actors.

Watch here:

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; 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; 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:

A Moment with Bettina Petrone

Posted on by Bettina Management

Here at Bettina Management, we recently celebrated our 25th birthday! We sat down with our director, Bettina Petrone, to find out more about her journey and what her goals are now for the agency.

How did you start out in the industry?

I started in the industry when I was 17 and I entered a beauty quest. I won the competition and one of the prizes was a modelling course with Suzanne Johnston, from there I joined an agency and started my career as a professional model.

How did Bettina Management start?

As well as being a professional model myself, I was also a dancing teacher. A lot of my students would always be asking me things about modelling, like how to walk, how to put on make-up and generally just wanting advice. So I decided to run modelling classes as well, which grew and grew and turned into Bettina Modelling and Deportment School.

While I was working as a model, my clients found out about my modelling school and asked if any of my kids would be interested in doing some work. So it started by helping out some of my clients with their campaigns, and like anything else, it just grew so I decided to start the agency.

In the beginning, I was interviewing new talent and working from my home office in Moonee Ponds, as we got bigger we moved to the Docklands and a few girls came on board to help me with the bookings and running the agency. And well, the rest, as they say, is history!

What were the first years like starting a brand new agency?

Every job we got was exciting, they were all firsts for us so it was a very enjoyable time for the kids and the agency. Our first campaign was for Run Scotty Run, a kids clothing label, so to see one of our kids in print was a fantastic moment.

The agency grew very quickly and we eventually opened up agencies interstate to keep up with the demand over there. We also started booking a whole new range of jobs, not just catalogues and print but TV commercials, feature films, TV series and all kinds of work. It was wonderful to see our kids were now not just models but mini-actors too.

What were your goals with the agency?

When we first set out it was just to keep up with client demand, I enjoyed helping out my clients and providing them with quality child talent. But once we really got going, our goals were also to help our kids grow as little professionals and find more new talent. We loved helping kids break into the industry and see their skills and confidence grow.

I loved working in the industry as a model myself, so getting to share that experience with young talent was a real joy for me and I love to see how we have continued that today. 

How do you think the industry has changed since you started the agency?

The industry has changed a lot with the introduction of technology. We started out with printed comp cards for each child, which could take weeks to create (and become outdated quite quickly, as kids grow so fast!). When a client would request a child, we would have to pack the comp cards into the post and wait for the client to receive them and send them back before they could be sent to another client.

We now have a sophisticated online database for our talent and access to all the industry casting platforms, which means we can submit each child to multiple clients every day (and no more trips to the post office!). The whole process has become a lot smoother and opened up so many more opportunities, as jobs can now turn over a lot quicker.

What has been a highlight for you since the agency began?

It has all been a great experience. I have loved seeing the agency go from strength to strength and continue to grow.

We have worked on some amazing campaigns from iconic TV commercials to Hollywood blockbusters and our kids have flown all over the world to work on campaigns. All of these moments have been highlights for us so it is hard to pick just one!

Ultimately, seeing the great team that we have built across Australia and the continued success of our talent is something I take great joy in.

What are your goals for the agency now?

Our goals for the agency now are to maintain our status as Australia’s top children’s talent agency. We want to continue to build and maintain our client relationships so we can attract the best talent. We will also continue to be the industry leader in educating and informing parents on how the industry really works.

 

Watch our interview with Bettina here>>

Lights, Camera, Action; A Parent’s Perspective

Posted on by Bettina Management

Kellie is the mother of two lovely twin girls, Chelsea and Chloe, who have been with us for 6 years! She has spent years driving them to and from castings and jobs, helping them in and out of wardrobe changes, coordinating school, extra curricular activities and bookings for Target, Kmart and many more!

We sat down with her recently to have a chat about her perspective on having her kids working in the industry and any tips she has for parents who are just starting out!

 

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

We were looking for somewhere that was trustworthy and somewhere where the children could have fun and be respected.

 

How long have the girls been working in the industry? Why have you have kept for this length of time?

The girls have been working for about 6 years, we kept going because they’ve had constant jobs and work along the way so while that’s happening and they’re having fun we thought why not keep going and enjoy the ride.

 

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

Sometimes it’s a little bit difficult having twins, especially because they’re not identical. Sometimes one twin might get more work than the other, so it is a juggling act that we deal with. But we’re pretty realistic with that, and we understand that its the client who’s picking the talent.

 

What is it like seeing your children on TV and in print?

It definitely makes me proud to see my girls in campaigns on TV or in print. But the fact that they’re enjoying it and having fun is the best part.

 

In what ways has working in the industry impacted Chelsea and Chloe in their life?

Working in the industry has had a positive impact on their lives, its helped them become more confident, everywhere they go they have a smile!

 

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

Keep it simple! Be on time, listen to instructions and most of all have fun.

 

Watch her interview here:

Lights, Camera, Action; Achok

Posted on by Bettina Management

It’s not every day that you get to fly to another city and shoot along side an international model. But our Achok was lucky enough to have this experience of a life time!

They casted across three cities to find the perfect girl for this role, and they found that perfect girl in Achok! Achok was cast to play the role of a young Yaya Deng in the Westfield ‘Own Your Story’ campaign. Achok and her mum were flown to Sydney for the shoot and Achok’s images were plastered on billboards across Australia.

We sat down with Achok and her mum recently to have a chat about their experience.

Age: 10yrs

Signed: 2015

Clients: Westfield

 

Achok

westfieldHow long have you been with the agency?

I have been with the agency since November last year

What was your first job?

My first job was for the Westfield ‘Own Your Story’ TV commercial

What was it like going to your first casting?

I was excited for my first casting, it was a lot of fun.

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

I was happy – and excited that I also got to go to Sydney with my mum.

What was the best part of working on set?

The best part about working on set was getting to meet everyone, especially Yaya Deng, she gave me a lot of advice and motivated me not to be nervous or shy.

What things did you find difficult or challenging on set?

It was a long day but it was fun so it wasn’t too bad.

 

Nyanak

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

She always wanted to model, so last year we decided to give it a go.

What was it like taking her to her first casting?

I was nervous but I was very excited for her.

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

I always thought she was a shy girl, but when she got on set she wasn’t shy at all. So that was the best part, seeing a side in her I hadn’t seen before.

 

Watch their interview here: