myspace friends :)... howdy!
So, I just had a lil white chocolate latte and I'm feelin like hollerin at ya'll. I'll try to be as detailed as possible. I'm easily distracted but I'll do my best. hehe
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I get a hefty amount of emails regarding how to enter the entertainment biz. Although,I've been handling business since a young age...I'm really still figuring it out myself. And I have a lot to learn. One thing I know, is that every single persons experience before and after entering the "business" is very different. I may tell you one thing while another actor or actress may tell you another. It's all opinion and preference.
First things first... HEADSHOTS. Any and everyone from Halle to No Name Jane needs a headshot. An 8x10 photo that represents you and your personality. When I first moved to LA in 1994, the hot thing was black and white headshots...now, Hollyweird folks are diggin the color photos.You're on myspace, so you're probably familiar with researching things on the computer.Look up some local photographers or ask around. Set up a shoot. From what I've been told...headshots should be as natural as possible. Personally, I only wear light foundation (concealer if you have any dark blemishes..I normally conveniently get a nasty pimple right beffore any shoot
), mascara or individual lashes and lip gloss (but again...it's personal preference). Wardrobe shouldn't be overdone. No minks, faux furs,feathers of any kind, costume jewelery, banana skirts... you know, all that crap you see in the magazines. None of that.
Also, lay low on the big wigs or big fuffy fuffy hair do's. (basically, don't do the hair I have for my main profile pic...lol). Again, as natural as possible.
After you take your shots and pick out the one that makes the most sense, You search for an AGENT. A company or person that represents you, sends you out on auditions and finds you jobs. Again, you can research agents on the handy dandy computer (ya gotta luv it). Send your photos out.Give the agencies a couple weeks to respond. If you don't hear back after a couple weeks...call to follow up.
Once you get an agent and they begin sending you out on auditions...always be prepared. Know yours lines. Try your best to relax and not let your nerves get the best of you when you walk in the audition room. Be confident.
It's a process that doesn't develop over night. It's persistance, hard work and dedication (all those things that sound cliche).
NEVER EVER EVER pay anyone!No legit agents or casting directors ever ask for any money. EVER. The only person you may have to chalk up a few dollars (maybe a lil more than a few)for is a photographer (oh and don't take off your clothes for nobody) 
A lot of folks ask if I think they need to move to Los Angeles to really do it. Welllllerum, Hollywood is definitely built for the cameras. But get your name locally established first. Learn the ends and outs close to home and once you feel it's time to step your game up...you may want to allot a few months to move to a bigger city (LA,NYetc.). See how it works out for you.
I truly apologize for not being able to answer each email regarding this subject. But these are the basics. "Follow these rules you'll have mad bread to break up :)"
Good luck and best wishes to anybody looking to pursue a career in entertainment. Don't forget to maintain your individuality.