Being in a career, you have always been passionate about is a privilege that not many get to experience. Acting is one of the most fulfilling yet demanding jobs.
Understand The Acting Industry
Contrary
to what most might believe, making it in acting is not a walk in the park and
requires dedication and effort that might take years to achieve. There are
three levels of actors:
1. Amateur Actors
An amateur
actor is relatively new to the profession and still learning all the
basics that come along with acting. They typically earn little to no money and
often land minor roles in local plays or theatres.
2. Working Actors
A working
actor is a professional actor who lands decent gigs but doesn’t earn much from
those gigs. They may land roles in theatres and local TV shows but often have
side hustles also to help boost their income.
3. The Famous Actors
These are
actors who have already made it in the industries and have a lot of
recognition. Producers call them for roles often, and they earn higher than the
other two types of actors that are listed. They get lots of endorsements from
brands and even win awards for their roles. Almost every actors’ end goal is to
get to this level.
What Is An Actor’s Job Description?
We see the
perfected versions of their role on our screens, but all the “dirty work”
happens offstage. They spend time memorizing scripts, working with coaches,
reading a lot, and networking with fellow actors. They negotiate contracts,
send numerous emails and keep rehearsing and hunting for roles. They have to
work out to stay in shape and do a side hustle to pay bills if necessary. If
acting is your passion, here are tips on how to become an actor:
Breaking Into The Acting Industry
Suppose
you’re taking acting as a career rather than a hobby, you will want to research
the types of actors and try to evaluate which category you will fit in. If you
are unsure, ask for honest opinions from a trusted friend or family member. Do
some research on how to become an actor so that your skills are always fresh and
up to date. Remember, that practice may not make perfect, but perfect practice
makes progress. If you can, look into hiring an acting coach for professional
guidance. Otherwise, find tools on the internet or find a team of people with
whom you share the same goals and practice, practice, practice. Hunt for
auditions and apply to each one. Even if you don’t get a role, networking might
provide numerous opportunities for you in the future.
How To Market Yourself
Directors
and scouts will only know about you if you market yourself correctly. Here are
5 great ways to market yourself as an actor.
1. Have An Updated Resume
Prepare an
up-to-date resume containing in-depth details about your acting experience,
even if it was a small play at your local church, make sure to include it. Make
your resume as truthful as you can because the slightest evidence of lies will
jeopardize your chances ultimately. You can get a professional to help you put
your resume together to make it as appealing as possible.
2. Prepare A Demo Reel
Have a
short video demonstration of your acting skills. It could be 30 seconds to a
minute long and not be professional. Most directors look for raw talent and can
tell good talent even from a low-quality video. As you continue polishing your
talent, keep updating your demo video.
3. Take Proper Headshots
Many
directors and scouts will require you to send your headshots. Take a few and
keep copies. However, if you don’t have one, ask a friend with a good camera
phone to take a photo of you, especially if you’re auditioning for small acts.
4. Post Random Videos Showcasing Your Acting Skills on Social Media
In this
social media era, you never know who might bump onto your page. Make your
social media accounts look professional by posting headshots, good-quality
pictures, and videos. Also, write a short bio about your skills and be careful
about the captions you use on your posts.
5. Go For All Auditions and Network
Attend auditions and castings in your area, even when you feel like the roles are beyond you. Attend many acting gigs and network with as many people as you can. Never leave without exchanging a few contacts.
With proper practice and a lot of hard work, you’re one step closer to a successful acting career. Evaluate your real motivation for acting, build on your confidence, and don’t be afraid to ask. Keep pushing, and in the end, your efforts will always pay off.
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