Animation : Cartoon Ideas by Sean Crayne

"I" is referring to what I have come up with. Certain loglines and synopsis ideas that I have produced over time. The "We" is referring to someone who has taken interest in my Idea because he has some connections with a certain cartoon animation network. I on the other hand am worried that this connection isn't legit and therefore am wondering what I should do. I would love to pitch the idea to you and see what you think. Like I said I'm continuously trying to make connections and pitch ideas

If you worry that the "someone's" connections aren't legit then sever ties with that person immediately. Never get into a situation with someone who you do not fully trust with your creative ideas. My suggestion is to fully realize your ideas into a tangible, copyrightable form.

http://dui.smackjeeves.com/comics/563844/page-one/

If you want to approach networks you need an agent. Often times you also need a show runner attached and/or some talent. Lots of great ideas out there, but networks also want to see someone on board with a proven track record to make sure those ideas are well executed.

I don't know how to go about finding an agent especially an agent that won't screw you over. I want an agent that is looking to find you work and then get paid not the other way around

You go about finding an agent especially an agent that won't screw you over by researching. There are many internet sites with agent names. Any agent that asks for money up front you simply ignore. Even though many of these bad agents are out there, you may be surprised to know that most work within the laws and regulations. I just may be that you will need one to pitch your ideas. So now is a good time to start your research and sending out query letters.

Most agents aren't trying to screw you around, they want to stay in business. As far as finding one, that is the tricky part. Most won't look at new talent without a referral or a deal on the table. Most new talent has neither which is the Catch 22. Managers are easier to get, but again they usually want experienced talent. One way of making yourself more marketable is producing content and getting it online and festivals and build a body of work, or win awards.

This may be a little to the left of where you're trying to go, but try going to comic book conventions. I personally keep in contact with two local comic book artists. Most comic book artists are familiar with one form of animation or another. If you can create a entertaining short and maybe get it on Spike and Mike's Sick and Twisted. There's also plenty of 3d animation programs or flash based you can use to get your foot in the door.

Put a proposal together - log-line, short synopsis, script and cover letter. Make sure you format your script to industry courier 12pt, google script formatting. Find a copy of Hollywood Rep Directory (expensive) at Barnes n Nobles 3rd St Prominade in Santa Monica, or The Writers Store in Burbank. Create a beautiful website showcasing your animation and artwork, here's a great free online portfolio website: carbonmade.com. Include all this and make a lot of copies and send it out to the respective talent agents. Wait 2-4 weeks then send a letter to touch base. If you don't hear anything back, just leave it alone for a few months, then try again. Whatever u do don't hassle anyone, you'll stand out in a bad way. Next time you can send some updated stuff together with your letter. If you don't get any callbacks from anyone at all, i know it's hard not to take things personally, but sometimes it's because of timing of industry, or your work just isn't a good fit for them. It may also be time to rethink your work, redo and improve. Hope this helps.

Thank You

Welcome.

I just want to say Thank You to everyone who has been replying to this...Good News is...A Cartoon Company of high standard has begun talks to Option the Cartoon. I have written the first episode and they are going to test it! Thank You once again!

Congratulations!