This is the final entry of our Sprout Spotlight Casting Director series, but it is certainly one of our favorites. Here at Sprout Kids Agency, our vision is a little different. We believe in having fun, while showcasing our talent in their best light. While this is a business, we know the entertainment business is a bit different. Almost everyone in this business, began as a creative. From being an art student to creating million dollar ad campaigns. From being a child model to becoming the owner of a top Childs agency. From being a stylist to becoming a highly coveted Casting director. This was certainly the case for this weeks Casting Director Deb Temco. Deb Temco has an artistic eye which clients love, and even talent appreciate. You should just see how cool her office space is in Miami, Florida! Our talent always takes advantage of her perfect selfie backdrop. Our talent has worked with her on projects for H&M, Mini Boden, Tommy Hilfger, and other highly coveted clients.
Who is Deb Temco?
“I was born and raised in New York. I started as a stylist, then was a model booker for a fashion photographer. From there I got a call about a casting job at the biggest casting office in New York City and jumped at the opportunity. I moved to Miami after falling in love with the place while working here on photo shoots.”
Which is your favorite project to date? What made it impactful for you?
“One of my favorite projects was a music video for Missy Elliot that was full of kids dancing. I loved working with the kids, they were such an inspiration.”
What makes the kids that you select to been seen stand out?What is it that you typically look for?
“The kids that stand out the most to me are the ones that are just themselves, just real and natural. I look for something different on every project. An updated current headshot is always important.”
When a project is submitted who picks the kids selected to be seen at the castings? is there a specific process?
“On most projects, I pick the kids to be seen and then the client gets the top picks.”
What is your funniest casting memory?
“My funniest casting memory is so hard to pick because there have been so many. Casting comedy and kids are my favorites. Comedy makes you laugh all day and the kids just make you smile.”
What is bad etiquette that prevents someone from being chosen? from little kids to adults
“Being rude, being late, or not being prepared.”
What is your biggest casting pet peeve?
“Coming when you’re not requested, being late or being rude.”
For kids interested in taking their career to the next level, what the biggest piece of advice you can offer them/their parents?
“My best piece of advice for anyone who wants to take their career to the next level is that you must want it so bad you can’t imagine doing anything else. It has to be something you’re totally passionate about, it has to be your dream, not someone else’s.”
What is your opinion on Social Media and how it is impacting the industry? Do you take talents social media into account when casting them?
“As much as it can be great, it can also be smoke and mirrors. I think it’s important to see people in person to really know what you’re getting. That said, many clients are interested in talent with a big social media following.”
What advice do you give to agencies in regards to their talent? How would you do it differently?
“Make sure they’re prepared for the casting and have a current headshot online.”
What is your website? Do you have any social media accounts? If so, please attach your links.
Here are some questions our talent here at Sprout Kids Agency Miami wanted to know!
Do you keep talent in mind for other projects, if you were impressed by them?
” Yes.”
Feedback! If we provided a feedback form after an audition, would you be willing to offer input to the agency on a big audition?
“Yes, but hard to do for every person who comes in on big castings.”
What are some auditioning (in-person and self-tape) mistakes you see over and over and what is the best way to avoid or overcome them?
“Not following direction. Read over things carefully and listen to the director.”
Thank you Debra for taking the time and answering our questions!
There is nothing we love more than really taking the time and helping our talent grow as professional Actors and Models.
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