I have read these postings for some time and notice that it is quite a British thing to complain about things but people do not seem to be very forthcoming when things go right. I have been watching these messages for entertainment value to be honest and some of them really cheered me up on occasions. I couldn't wait to see what some people were replying with, every time I switched my pc on. It was quite funny really and a nice break from nappies and calpol. Anyway, i would now like to join in and add some points to address certain factors, being as I have first hand experience in the matter. My 2 kids have both been with Bizzykidz for almost 4 years now and, although there have been times when it has been quieter than others, we have had a steady amount of work throughout those years and, being as we only paid the one payment for life, we have earned that payment back many, many times. I agree that it can be hard for anyone in this industry, especially now, as when my first daughter started, almost 12 years ago, there were only a couple of agencies to choose from. Now, however, there are loads to choose from, so not only do parents have difficulty in choosing an agency, the clients must do too. After all, there is only so much work about isn't there?
If anyone has a problem with any agency, they should really address it to the agency concerned, I would have thought.
Florence Flying - just a word of advice (and this is not meant for you to attack me back), surely it is not healthy for you to be so aggressive? So, you have not had work with the agency - that doesn't mean they have nicked your money does it? They can't guarantee you anything, infact, they want the commission as much as you want the work, so it works both ways. If you have found another agency that has found you work, then perhaps they have different clients that look for what your child has to offer? Who knows? All I know is that Bizzykidz are certainly not short of work by any stretch of the imagination. One of my daughters did a shoot for Lambeth Council in the week and they shot for 2 whole days. They used a total of 15 kids for the campaign and ALL were from Bizzykidz and no other agency took part at all. To have 15 kids working in one week is most likely a good achievement for any agency.
My experiences have been good with this agency and I have a friend that was with Elisabeth Smith and got nothing (after paying a huge amount of money - yet they are one of the best agencies?). This goes to show that the industry can be hard, don't expect to earn a fortune out of it, don't moan if you don't get work (as long as you know the company is bone fide of course), and make a life outside of the career; so when you do get work it is a bonus.
Best wishes to everyone!!