The author felt insecure about their appearance after watching one of their acting auditions, magnifying perceived flaws. However, an actor friend and an instructor offered perspective, the latter showing a video of acclaimed actor Willem Dafoe discussing his own self-perceived flaws. This helped the author to focus more on acting rather than personal insecurities.
Tag: acting
Taking Charge of Your Acting Career: Why I Still Apply for My Own Casting Calls
The actor narrates their perspective on self-advocacy in the acting business. Despite having an agent, they choose to look for and apply to their own casting calls. Their experience of not landing roles via their agent's auditions highlights the importance of taking control of their career and continuously seeking opportunities.
Now is Not a Bad Time to Be an Actor
Despite recent industry strikes, opportunities for actors are present. Seven daily, rangingly experienced actors have all found recent roles. Non-union work is abundant, and actors should use downtime to improve their skills and network. Despite the uncertain future of acting, an actor should always keep practicing while optimally preparing for post-strike opportunities.
The Value of a Reel
In the past fortnight, the author landed two feature film roles simply with a reel, underscoring a reel's ability to secure auditions and work. An actor's reel—a one to two-minute video compilation of their best performances—can be self-made, professionally created, or compiled from project footage, offering various price points and timelines.
Should You Move to ATL to Pursue Your Dream
The author, an Atlanta-based individual, provides advice for aspiring actors planning to relocate to major film cities like Atlanta, LA, and NYC. Recommendations include attending acting classes, getting headshots while still employed, starting to build acting resumes locally, applying for local casting calls, and saving 3-4 months of living expenses before moving. The goal is to be well-prepared to start an acting career in the new city.
Take Acting Classes: Why Even Natural Talent Benefits from Acting Classes
The article emphasizes the importance of acting classes, even for naturals. Beyond improving acting skills, these classes offer opportunities for networking, gaining on-camera acting expertise, and adding experience to one's resume. They could lead to agency referrals, teach in-depth scene and character analysis, and foster friendships among classmates for mutual support.
Stay Encouraged: The Reality of Acting Auditions and Success Rates
Acting can be frustrating due to infrequent role bookings. Remember, getting an audition places you in the top 3% of applicants, and a callback puts you in the top 1%. The average actor books only 1-3 roles per 50 auditions. Repeated auditions from the same casting director show appreciation for your skills, indicating potential future opportunities.
Frustration
If you’re getting frustrated about not booking any roles in acting. Just remember: Out of thousands of applicants, if you get an audition, you’re in the top 3% Out of all the 50 to 100 people who got an audition, if you get a callback, you’re in the top less than 1%. The average actor … Continue reading Frustration
How to Find and Submit to Talent Agencies
If you're seeking representation as an actor, consider SAG-AFTRA franchised agencies, as they offer legitimacy and protection against scams. To find them, visit the SAG-AFTRA website, follow the links to the 'Franchised Agents List', and identify agencies in your locality. Examine individual agency websites for submission details and accordingly submit your resume, headshots, and reel.
To Memorize or Not to Memorize for Auditions
The author, an actor, explains why they choose not to memorize lines for auditions. Reasons include short turnaround times for auditions, high volume of auditions per week, length of monologues, and the distraction of line-recalling hindering their acting performance. The actor uses a TelePrompTer app for assistance during auditions.
Simon Shih 