Let's face it, when we see famous actors in the cinema or on TV we would like to be like them. It's not easy (nor cheap), but it will be worth it in the end! Here are some tips.
Steps
Step 1. Hire a good acting teacher
Even if you are a born actor, you will still need a teacher. You will need to have a CV, at least short, before hiring an agent. Ask your teacher if he can recommend works you can participate in.
Step 2. Advertise
Now it's time for a photo portrait. Make sure you have it shot by a professional portraitist. Remember, this will be your business card! Portraits are expensive, but what you get will be worth the price. After the photographer takes your photos, you will need to have them printed. This too will cost a lot, but it is absolutely necessary.
Step 3. Film your performances (at home or in front of an audience) and start collecting enough material to assemble a Show Reel (also called Demo Reel)
This will be your business card as an actor. Put your Show Reel on the internet (on Youtube or your career website) so that you can send a simple email with a link to evaluate your talent to casting directors, managers, producers or agents.
Step 4. Look for amateur performances
While you won't get a great deal of exposure to casting directors and insiders, it's a good introduction to the acting industry. You will learn a lot, from actor jargon to rehearsal rules. You may also meet some influential people, but consider this step as your first step. Have a friend record your performance to add it to your Show Reel.
Step 5. If you go to school, do auditions for school play for training, to improve and to get noticed in your city and school
Step 6. After attending a few movies, ask your acting teacher to help you write your resume and edit a Show Rell, if you haven't already
Put everything online.
Step 7. Find out if you are talented
If you know TV or movie professionals, send them links to your Show Reel or website and listen to their feedback! If you don't know anyone, take advantage of free sites like www.showreeladvice.com or hire professionals to help you. An outside opinion is essential if you want to impress TV and film professionals.
Step 8. Find an agent
He'll get you to work with photographers for a photo album and then walk you through all the next steps. You can send your album, show reel and resume to casting directors to try and get you parts, or - if you've made them available online - they'll contact people by email. Do not give up! The greater your talent, the easier it will be to climb to success.
Step 9. Start acting in shows, movies, commercials and whenever you get the chance
Never turn down a job unless you feel it will be detrimental to your career.
Advice
- You will have to be strong. If you are too sensitive and will burst into tears every time someone says something rude to you, you will NEVER make it.
- Have fun! If you show up at an agency with a listless posture, arms crossed, bad breath, messy hair, and act like you're in the last place you want to be, you'll never get a part.
- Watch educational videos online and do as much research as you can about the film industry! The more you know, the more prepared you will be.
- Take all the opportunities that come your way!
Warnings
- Read the contract with your agent thoroughly before signing anything. Don't be afraid to ask questions.
- It's harder to get noticed at a young age, because people won't believe in you and directors will want people with experience. Remember: never give up!
- Don't think about getting to fame right away. It will take time!
- The average commission for an agent is 10%. This means that of all the earnings you will get thanks to his help, he will receive 10%. Read the contract and make sure the percentage is no more than 15% (already very high).
- Consider carefully whether to interrupt your school career to try to make a career as an actor. Many aspiring actors don't go very far and can't support themselves. Prepare for the worst.
