Acting : LA Casting Newtwork by Natalie Rapp

NEVER pay money to a casting agency. If they ask, they're not legit.

L.A. Casting Network doesn't make you pay if you have an agent. I based here in Austin and all the agents down here require there actors to sign up because the majority casting directors use it, but it's free for talent with representation.

LA Casting is not a casting agency. It is merely a website that posts your information and photos and gives you access to casting notices form casting directors who post their notices on the same website. Mostly for commercials but they have a variety of roles. (Btw casting directors don't like to be called 'casting agents' or 'casting agencies') It's true that if you have representation than you don' t have to pay the monthly fee on lacasting (or you pay a reduced fee) but I find it to be totally worth it if you want to start booking work on your own.

Thanks for input. I realize there are 'casting directors' and 'casting agencies'. I meant, casting agencies...with regards to SF Casting.

Never give money up front ever. If it's legit they wouldn't ask.

L.A. Casting is the primary website used for commercial casting by both agents and casting people- if you have a commercial agent you shouldn't have to pay for anything but your profile on the site- the primary costs are adding photos and reels. If you want to do commercials in LA you do need to be on there. The other casting site for commercials that has become popular in the last year or two is Casting Frontier which also requires you to pay to put up photos etc. But getting a good commercial agent is really the first, best step. You're right to be wary of anyone who wants money up front. I should add that for theatrical work (which in LA confusingly means film and TV) you'll need a profile on the Actors Access website, again the costs are less if you have an agent but you pay for photos and reels. Hope that helps.