The Association of Talent Agents

Looking into talent agencies and how they do business is a great way for me to get an idea of how my creative directing and artist development company may work. I came across the Association of Talent Agents (ATA), which has been around since 1937. 

The ATA looks to connect talent agencies with talent and give out advice and information regarding the industry. There is also a lot of information on different talent agencies as well as news regarding labor laws and potential changes, especially in the state of California.

One of the most recent articles informs its members that California Labor Commissioner has announced an online application system to obtain a Child Performer Services (CPS) permit. The article also provides a direct link to the CPS permit to make it easier for its members as well. The link not only includes the website for the CPS permit, but the entire press release explaining the new change. 

Any agency or company that looks to hire children without this permit being verified is subjected to a $10,000 fine. The press release also includes information for parents of child talent and how they should make sure the people they work with have valid permits and how to do it.

I know many artists don't look into talent laws, permits and things of that nature because they’re more concerned and interested in making the art. One of the things I suggest to any artist, and/or management team, is to make sure to get as educated in the “fine print” as possible. If you’re not sure what something means, consult a lawyer. Make sure to ask questions. Contracts are often drawn up with jargon that the artist doe not readily understand. I want to not only help perfect my artist's crafts but also their knowledge of business as well.