You have a dream and a goal, but sometimes it's hard to know where to start. Anyone embarking on an acting career probably already knows the basics: get a headshot, build a resume, get an agent, go to auditions, etc. But how?! How do you find out about auditions? Will a glamour photo from the mall work as a headshot? You know the ones: blurry dreamscape effect, feather boa with a motorcycle jacket, Dolly Parton hair and enough makeup that someone could use your eyelids to chalk a pool cue.
One thing I want to make clear from the get-go is that if you approach your career with a brutal mistake (such as using a glamour photo as a headshot), it will not be forgotten by the people who can make or break you. So step 1 for any actor should be to do your homework and research the industry. Actingbiz.com has loads of articles and information written by industry professionals who have been in the business for years which answer virtually any question you can think of about the business.
The Headshot
This is the very first thing that is an absolute must-have! But it also has to be done right and conform to industry standards. Your headshot is your business card. It will usually be the first thing that is seen by an agent or casting director, so it is essential that everything about it screams professionalism. Remember that when your headshot is seen by a casting director or an agent, it is sometimes seen for only 2 seconds as the person flips through a stack of 50-100 other headshots. You want it to stand out, but certainly not in the wrong way. Read Six Tips for Perfect Headshots by Ruth Kulerman.
Finding the Opportunities
Whether you're trying to figure out where to find casting notices or just wondering where you go to find the good ones, a key word in any industry is "networking". I've replied to several people who have asked this basic question with the same recommendation: local acting classes and community theatre. Your talent and abilities aside, these are great places to network with other actors on all levels and sometimes even industry professionals. I am taking a class now from a filmmaker who has also casted numerous projects and worked with some dude named Jack Nicholson.
Do keep in mind that you will probably have to start out small no matter how good you are (or think you are). Community theatre is a great way to practice and showcase your acting abilities (you never know who may be sitting in the audience), and acting classes are often full of ambitious young filmmakers who are always in need of actors who will work for free. Yes, free! You need a resume, and this is where you will begin to build one.
Building a Resume
Many actors (myself included) have walked into an audition with a resume which contained nothing but their name and phone number. We all start somewhere, and that somewhere will probably not be opposite Brad Pitt in a major supporting role. Your first role will most likely be small and probably in one of the following arenas: local community theatre, a student/independent film, a movie extra or a web video. I really do not recommend reality TV or porn unless you plan to make a career of it; the successful crossover rate is nil at best.
In the beginning, you will need to bulk up your resume as quickly as possible the best way you can. This can be easily done in a few short months with acting classes, workshops and any opportunity to perform that comes your way.
But while beggars can't be choosers, don't be overly frivolous, either. Research the credentials of local acting coaches and photographers. Let's not forget what branding can do; industry professionals will recognize certain names and associate them with lesser or greater credibility. Keep this in mind when you shop for your photographer or choose certain classes and workshops. Don't think an agent won't know whether you've hired the Gucci of photographers or the Dollar General of acting coaches. You may not have much choice depending on where you live. But if you do, do your homework and choose wisely.
Writing Your Resume
This is so simple that even a child can type up a knock-'em-dead resume. My recommendations: 1) adhere to industry standards [Examples], 2) be honest! If you make stuff up, you will be found out and, as I mentioned earlier, you will be remembered for it, and 3) include a brief, formal cover letter [Examples].
Much of this information I have gathered from industry professionals and fellow actors. It has all served me well, so I am passing it along. I am embarking on this journey myself, so I am right there with you and learning as I go. I hope this can help answer some questions and keep you motivated. Good luck! I wish you all the best!
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