Become an Actor or an Actress

Want to become a famous actor or actress? You can, just follow these simple steps. But remember, becoming an actor/actress takes time, you can't just be done and ready in a month.

Steps

  1. Know that you really want to become an actor or an actress. Think it through. If you have any second thoughts, stop and consider the work required. Being an actor or actress isn't easy. But if you are really sure, keep on reading.
  2. Take classes or workshops. The more acting training you do, the farther you will go. If they are expensive, try to find a drama club for free, but they are worth it.
  3. Take part in some local plays or community theatre. Plays will build up your resume, and they usually are fun! The more experience you have, the better. So do as much as you can!
  4. Get a headshot taken. Headshots should be priced between $200-$500. Very expensive, but this is one of the most important things in your acting career. It is your calling card, so you must have it done professionally. And most important, keep it very natural. You can search good sample headshots.
  5. Print out your resume. You should include all of the work you've done, including training. For an example Look up some sample resumes too. (Download a sample resume here [1])
  6. Send your headshot and resume to a local agent. It's a good idea to start with a franchised agent, but whatever feels right for you. Do agents cost money? Not at all, except from what you earn, which is 10%. However it is hard work to get an agent, so be presentable and have a positive attitude that will light up the room.
  7. If you are able to audition for Union jobs, you may need to join SAG-AFTRA. The fee to join is $3099. But then you can earn your money back.
  8. Audition! Get more experience doing background talent, commercials, or student films. Then you're on your way to TV, Films, and more!

Tips

  • Make sure you are ready to do this. Don't go into it for the fame and fortune.
  • If you're ready and want to become an actress,you've got to push yourself and believe in your self.
  • For auditions, don't use Explore Talent, Talent Hunter, etc.. Use Backstage or Actors Access, both are very good.
  • Social media outlets, such as YouTube, have been great for exposure. If you are looking to be in comedy, for example, find material that people can relate to. Be confident and have fun with it!
  • Start doing small acting gigs first, then go do big ones. It will prepare you more.
  • You should have the confidence.
  • If you have stage fright,then you have to learn to grow out of it.
  • Their is not much that you can do to not have stage fright or as some call it: (audience fright) which happens when you are in an audience and they have usually have visual loss and everything becomes a blur.
  • Those are the people that we spend the most time on. Because even making stuffed toys on benches and trying to picture them as human beings, just don't usually work!
  • Do not stop working hard. Getting discouraged at a setback or failure doesn't help you to progress. Learn from the experience and use what you learned in the future.

Warnings

  • Watch out for scams! Audition websites and agents are the most popular scams.

Things You'll Need

  • A Good Head shot
  • A Resume
  • Extra money to spend on head shots and classes.

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Sources and Citations