AGGREGATED ACTING FORUMS

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Advice for beginners

Advice for beginners

Posted on Jun 28th

Hey, I recently met a director, and she said she wants me to audition to be in one of her movies, I have never acted before, but more than interested in this, very very. Interested actually, What advices would you give me? Are there YouTube channels I can watch to help me get into acting? Any tips? Do actors usually think of something sad when they want to be sad, or is it a different mechanism? I know nothing of the acting world but would absolutely love to be a part of it, so any advices would be greatly appreciated Thank you in advance

Has your sexuality ever been a conflict for you related to your acting?

Has your sexuality ever been a conflict for you related to your acting?

Posted on Jun 28th

I hope this is an okay question to ask on this sub because it does relate to the process of working as an actor. I’ve always had a hard time emotionally connecting to a scene/scene partner where I’m supposed to be feeling romantic/sexual desire. Through other situations and experiences in my life I’ve recently come to discover that I’m aroace (aromantic and asexual), and it’s really frustrating me because I feel like my own sexuality is holding me back from doing my work. I know there are stories that don’t revolve or even include romance or sex, but I’m interested in doing work with stories like that as well, I love romance stories, but I just can’t feel that kind of attraction. I know that there are plenty of actors who are gay and have to perform as a straight person or vice versa, but there’s still the understanding of romantic or sexual attraction despite that not being the gender you’re attracted to, but with me I literally don’t understand how either feels and it’s only making me loath myself for not being able to access those feelings. Does anyone have a similar experience or advice?

Exclusive agreement

Exclusive agreement

Posted on Jun 28th

How do I drop my exclusive agent specifically? Also why are actors offered exclusive agents in the first place?

I want to be an actor, but am nervous that I will never get work

I want to be an actor, but am nervous that I will never get work

Posted on Jun 28th

I am still relatively young and perhaps shouldn't think about my career yet, but here we are. I'm aware it could very well change. Preferably I'd work somewhere where I'd have a bit of consistency so I could have an acting/lit-related day job; probably working as an actor rep company/a paid directing position in a community theater? The sort of thing where you get to know the people so well that even when the season is over, you're basically guaranteed work in some shape or form. I know these can be hard to come across, but I've also heard that actors are supposed to get more employment over the next 10 years, or something like that. I am the kind of person who, even if I can't find plays to do, will make them for myself. I'd get a bunch of friends together and put on a casual production of Two Gentlemen of Verona but in drag in the park if I didn't have anything at the time. Because why not? Performing gives me life. My dream is to do Shakespeare on the west end. Will that happen? Who knows, but I'm not betting on it. I just want to be in plays. I suppose what I'm asking is, do I need to be afraid? I will work hard, show up, and always find a way to perform in some shape or another, so should I be scared?

Classes/Conservatories in Atlanta?

Classes/Conservatories in Atlanta?

Posted on Jun 28th

I'm considering relocating to Atlanta, GA to continue working as an actor. I'm wondering if anybody has recommendations for solid classes/studios/conservatories in Atlanta. I know ATL has been blowing up with all the productions they have going on. So that must mean the same goes for great acting classes and teachers who have gone there. I'm looking for something more than just a scene study or audition technique class. Maybe even something similar to conservatories that one would attend in NYC. Technique classes, mask work, voice & speech, movement, Shakespeare. All suggestions are appreciated.

Is it necessary nowadays to have a social media presence to achieve success as an actor?
Where Do I Find Voice Acting Positions?

Where Do I Find Voice Acting Positions?

Posted on Jun 28th

I was really gonna just do some voice acting as a one off thing, but my family actually thinks I’d make an amazing voice actor, so I think I’ll give it a shot. Is there anything particular site or app or something that would be good to place myself for voice acting jobs? I’ve also never actually had a job before, but I’m gonna have to cross that hurdle when it comes

Curious about how c rying works when rehearsing/filming

Curious about how c rying works when rehearsing/filming

Posted on Jun 28th

So let's say the scene involves two people, and one of them begins to cry about 30 sec into the scene. When you are on the set rehearsing RIGHT before filming, do actors bother getting the tears out? This might be an insanely stupid question LOL And when they are filming - if it is a situation where the crier's angle isn't being filmed first, do they still get physical tears out?? I've seen behind the scenes moments where the actor whose back is to the camera is making funny faces etc. I get that it's important to stay in character for your fellow actor of course, but when it comes to crying, how does this all work? ​

I need a little help

I need a little help

Posted on Jun 28th

So I don’t know how many voice actors are on here but what are some good sights to find jobs as a 14 year old

Speech therapist in Vancouver with experience with actors?

Speech therapist in Vancouver with experience with actors?

Posted on Jun 27th

Howdy--by chance does anyone have a recommendation for a speech therapist in Vancouver who has specific experience with actors/singers? ​ Thanks!

Vomiting for a stage role

Vomiting for a stage role

Posted on Jun 27th

I was chatting to an actor about challenging roles and he said that he had been in a stage play about bulimia. For one of the scenes he binged on food then made himself vomit, all of it for real. The performance was three nights in a row, and he also did the same in four rehearsals. While I admire his dedication for doing this, and it was something he was aware of at the audition stage, I can't help wondering if this is too much for a director to ask of their actors. Has anyone here heard of anything similar to this in a stage play, and how would you feel if asked to do it?

Beginning Actor:

Beginning Actor:

Posted on Jun 27th

Hi,I have my first audition in two days and I need some tips for going to an audition please!

Video game facial scan library

Video game facial scan library

Posted on Jun 27th

Hello! Just wondering if anyone had any opinions about accepting work as a scan talent performer for video games? If a listing is non-union, doesn't specify any particular video game, and says that your facial likeness scans will be added to a large library for creating various roles, is that a potential red flag? I only ask because I can't find much information on actor likeness contracts in video games specifically, but it reminds me of warnings I've heard about selling one's voice to voiceover AI companies to add to their "library", and how that can be bad for a performer down the line. But maybe if your face is mashed up with other faces, and therefore unrecognizable in the final product, it doesn't matter? Then again, they still might own rights to your likeness...any thoughts would be appreciated!

Roe v. Wade Impact on Atlanta

Roe v. Wade Impact on Atlanta

Posted on Jun 27th

As an actress who used to work in Atlanta, I’m curious how the Roe v. Wade decision will impact the industry there. I remember when directors/productions threatened to pull out of Georgia permanently when voting rights were an issue. Thoughts?

Random question, because I’m curious. An acquaintance of mine is (or was) an actor, but got arrested for sexual offences. What will happen to this person?

Random question, because I’m curious. An acquaintance of mine is (or was) an actor, but got arrested for sexual offences. What will happen to this person?

Posted on Jun 27th

We went to college together, although we weren’t studying the same thing, we were in the same building for anything Performance related and have mutual friends. This person is only one of the few who graduated that is actually pursuing the industry, problem is, well, the severity of the offences (yes, plural). What will become of this person’s career in the industry? I checked this person’s IMDb, and nothing on there is a pro gig, so this person’s pretty much a newbie. What will happen to someone this *new* in the industry, while some serious offences are tied to this person’s name? Like if you type this person’s name online, you’d see the news articles immediately + the mugshot. SMH, shocking is an understatement.

Manager Question

Manager Question

Posted on Jun 27th

Hello I'm an actor based in Los Angeles. I was curious to know what the best way to find a manager is? I feel like managers are more on the down low, versus commercial and theatrical agencies who are all over Instagram. Would my best bet be to just go to IMDBPro, and look up actors on the same level as me, and see who they are repped by? How did you find your manager? I book a lot of commercials. I booked two just this week. But I really struggle with getting called in for theatrical roles, so I'm hoping to obtain a manager who can help me with that side of my career. I'm hoping all my commercial bookings can give me something to offer them in a sense, since my theatrical credits are almost non existent. I'm in acting class every week and do really well, I just feel like the public breakdowns are slim pickings for the unrepped. Would love some advice! I don't feel like I have the resume yet to get a decent theatrical agent, so I think a manger would be a good start and to work my way up from there. Would love to know your thoughts.

Scams

Scams

Posted on Jun 27th

Is it just me or has anyone else been scammed by con artists such as Pretige Talent, PMTM model and talent, or similar companies, that like to put you through training for months then make you pay for an "agency showcase" Happened to me when I was a green actor, looking back it's actually upsetting.

I Don’t Know How My Mental Illness/ Health & Artistry (Acting) Can Co-exist

I Don’t Know How My Mental Illness/ Health & Artistry (Acting) Can Co-exist

Posted on Jun 27th

Does anyone ever feel like they picked the worst job/ industry for their mental health and wellness? Especially if you already struggle with your mental health? We can try and pretend that the countless doors closing in our faces and uncertainty of the next gig doesn’t bother us, but if it didn’t bother us (not even a little), then we wouldn’t be human. I felt like I was making some progress prior to the pandemic. My anxiety would get in the way of myself a lot, but I have an agent and I was on check avail/ hold a lot, I was getting callbacks. I was also constantly pushing it. My mental health was not great, and the pandemic forced me to slow down and take a good, hard look at myself. The pandemic also made my mental health significantly worse. Not having any creative outlet and little energy to try anything new led to a really bad time. The world around us felt like it was crumpling My mental health is still something I’m still avidly working on it. I’ve made progress, but a lot of days are still very difficult. I had a realization, kind of an obvious one, that the industry has zero accommodations for those struggling with mental illness. In the industry, you can’t really have bad days. Obviously, there are not really accommodations for anyone with disabilities (seen or unseen). I love performing. I love acting. When I’m given the opportunity to work, I do it extremely well, and I feel better because I feel like I have a purpose. I’m pursuing my passion. The gigs have been far and few between, though, especially at the moment and it hurts. I hate the industry. I hate the nepotism and the gatekeeping, the fact that it comes down to looks a lot of the time. I hate “networking.” The gatekeeping is really the worst part of it all. The same actors getting cast and tight knit cliques. I hate that influencers who have never acted in their lives are getting acting jobs. I just want to work. I’ve felt stuck in this city (Chicago). I feel stuck in my life because I don’t want to do anything else. I wonder if I should move elsewhere to pursue. I’m just burnt out and tired, and I don’t know what to do next. Maybe I need a break from it all. Literally don’t know what the point of this post is, maybe I just needed to vent lol. Thanks for reading if you read it all!

Radiating and Chekhov

Radiating and Chekhov

Posted on Jun 27th

I've been recently taking an interest in the Michael Chekhov technique and what it can provide an actor. As an actor who is consistently "in my head" too much and relies more on an internal to external approach (maybe a bit more than I should), I've heard that Michael Chekhov's technique can offer some beneficial tools that are more creative than intellectual and are grounded in a more external to internal technique. I've practiced molding, flowing/floating, and flying, but radiating is difficult for me to understand and grasp. The other three movements are easier for me to understand and feel sensations from than radiating. Does anybody have some advice or perhaps a different way to approach radiating? Also, I'm conflicted as to what I should be practicing from the Chekhov technique. Should I be practicing the molding, flowing/floating, flying, radiating qualities, or the psychological gesture more?

No notice for commercial auditions!! Bout to quit.

No notice for commercial auditions!! Bout to quit.

Posted on Jun 27th

I’m a fairly successful commercial actor. I have a national running at the moment ( aired during playoffs and Stanley cup ) But im feeling like joining the great resignation due to very audition being last minute. I’m fi-core so I get both SAG and non-union but no matter what the union status I rarely get 24 hours to get a tape in. I’m getting notice at 5/6pm for a tape due the next day between 11-1 and it’s not cool. And if I’m not cool I mean it’s just not just not feasible, especially when the tapes require a reader and Al some thing where they wanna see my comedy chops and I have to really get into character. I like commercials and I’m good at my craft but I can’t even put my best foot forward not to mention I am just resentful and feeling like I don’t have any way to manage my time. Anyway, I’m really considering throwing in the towel because I’m feeling like the juice isn’t worth the squeeze. I’m wondering if any other actors out there I feeling the same way. I want more theatrical auditions but they’re just not really happening. Commercially I do well but I’m just so pissed at the lack of respect with these last minute auditions and feeling like a naughty child if I don’t look at my phone 24 hours a day. Rant over.

On a call tomorrow with a Hollywood actress starring in a major studio project and am scared?

On a call tomorrow with a Hollywood actress starring in a major studio project and am scared?

Posted on Jun 27th

Hey all — director here having a call tomorrow with a studio actress who stars on a major project right now and am nervous. We got my screenplay to her and she read through it, the offer and agent said she is interested and would love to hop on a call to talk about the story and character. I’m a bit nervous because I’ve never had this type of call or discussion before with a true Hollywood talent. Any tips to not fumble the bag would be appreciated — as a director what are things that I can say to help her feel better about the project and hopefully join?

Actors coming off like they're "reading" instead of performing?

Actors coming off like they're "reading" instead of performing?

Posted on Jun 26th

What do you do when your actor comes off like they're reading straight from a book, instead of a strong performance? My cousin has a short film with an actress I'm working with and I'm struggling to believe her character because it truly feels like she's just reading lines from a book. Does anyone have any thoughts to how to help an actor NOT come off with such artifice?

Acting school

Acting school

Posted on Jun 26th

Hey guys! Im a 13 year-old with hopes and dreams of becoming an actor but I want some training first, like acting schools. But its difficult to find legit and worth it acting schools/online in Miami. If anyone knows a legit and worth it place please let me know! I really don’t want to give up and I want to start acting at this young age, but its really hard since I cant find an agent and its also hard to find legit online auditions. So, if you know any good acting school/agent let me know.

Are you willing to act for a budding filmmaker?

Are you willing to act for a budding filmmaker?

Posted on Jun 26th

We have to start somewhere. Looking for a mutually beneficial endeavor where a budding filmmaker works with a budding actor. This will be my second short film. It will be a mutual learning experience and you will get to build your portfolio. There is no money involved, just sweat and tears!

Vancouver actors

Vancouver actors

Posted on Jun 26th

Hi There, I am thinking about moving to Vancouver to start my career as an actor. I am very new to this industry. Thinking about taking some acting classes and working as an extra. Just wanted to know that is it possible to make a living as extra? Some recommendation on the acting classes pls?

Trust and acting

Trust and acting

Posted on Jun 26th

I’ve heard and read that trust is the key to more powerful/vulnerable acting. To be clear, I've read that trust IN ONESELF as an actor is the key. But, I’ve never felt like I can really trust myself as an actor. That I don’t have the right instincts or impulses, the right tools, the right access to my emotions, the right emotions, the right inspirations, the right imagination, process, etc. I don’t know how to allow myself to just trust not only myself but also the work and the process itself. I think I don’t trust it out of fear that it won’t bring the results I wish for or want. How do I combat this fear and allow myself to trust?

I got casted but, I need advice....

I got casted but, I need advice....

Posted on Jun 26th

I can't give away information here because this is a gigantic project and I never acted in a project before. I'm also new to this sub, seeking advice really. My question is, hypothetically, let's say you were casted to work on a massive project and you never acted before but you want to use this new opportunity to grow in the industry. What's the best advice you can give to grow in this industry or network with other people, such as actors and casting directors? (Or something totally different, I'm a baby here.)

What one realization or tip/trick helped you infinitely in becoming a better actor?

What one realization or tip/trick helped you infinitely in becoming a better actor?

Posted on Jun 26th

Any adjustment or note, realization or trick that made things just "click" for you? I'm so curious.

soooooo i need some help

soooooo i need some help

Posted on Jun 26th

So i am 14 and i was looking to become a voice actor. Plan and simple are there any sites like LinkedIn that a 14 year old can use? i've tried LinkedIn but i have to be 16 so it's a no go. Also casting call club i have heard it's unsafe.

Director not updating who is called to rehearsal less than 24 hours away

Director not updating who is called to rehearsal less than 24 hours away

Posted on Jun 26th

Just really frustrated atm, I have a small role in a local production of Much Ado About Nothing. Pretty small theatre, unpaid. I’m an acting student and was auditioning like crazy for something for the summer. This was the one that stuck and it’s actually pretty fun! However the director seems to be really.. unorganized. She’s also running summer camps for the theatre as well, and I totally get that it’s an insanely busy time of year. Usually the rehearsal schedule isn’t released until the week of, which really hasn’t been a problem until now especially since I’ve only been called to a few rehearsals. This week has been marked as TBA on the schedule (as to who is called and what we’ll be working) for the entire week, ever since the schedule was sent out. One of my best friends is visiting my hometown this week (I now live 3 hours away) and considering she lives in a different country, I really want to visit but have been holding off on making a final plan to see what the schedule will look like. It is Sunday at 11:45pm. The next rehearsal is scheduled at Monday at 7pm. I have NO IDEA if I’m called and no one else does either. I emailed the director earlier today just to ask politely if she might have a general idea what scenes we might be working and also who might be called to the rehearsal tomorrow night. I got a kinda curt, “I’ll know later tonight” type of response. It’s now almost midnight and no updates. I’ve been checking every hour to see if the schedule has been updated and also nothing. I’m just frustrated because I have no idea if I can visit my friend who I haven’t seen in two years because it all depends on the schedule this week. I also think it’s incredibly unprofessional to let your actors know they are called to rehearsal essentially the SAME DAY that the rehearsal takes place. I’ve been in many college/school productions and I’ve always known weeks in advance when I am called to rehearsal. That is the director’s job. Obviously this show isn’t the only thing going on in the lives of me and my castmates, and I feel I shouldn’t have to put my life and plans on hold (for something unpaid/nonprofessional) because the director can’t update the schedule in a timely manner. Thoughts?

Chance encounter with big LA agent - would I be crazy to send him my materials?

Chance encounter with big LA agent - would I be crazy to send him my materials?

Posted on Jun 25th

Today I met an agent from one of the biggest agencies in LA. We met at an event totally unrelated to acting/entertainment - he has other business ventures and I’m working for an organization he wants to connect with. We were connecting on topics related to the event, and the fact that we have the same hometown and went to the same high school. He gave me his business card and I saw the name of the agency… I told him I’m an actor and we talked briefly about my training and how someone from my studio just signed with his agency. He was part of organizing the event so he was very busy and we must have been interrupted 5 or so times before he said he had to go do something and he’d be back to talk again later. The event ended and I did not see him anywhere for quite a while so I left. My big question is - would I be batshit insane to send him my materials or something? I know I’m not ready right now so it wouldn’t be for at least another 4-6 months. But I’d really like to hear other people’s thoughts, if this sounds like a bad idea or if I’d be crazy to pass up on this chance. Thanks y’all.

Getting started in a theatre?

Getting started in a theatre?

Posted on Jun 25th

I'm trying to become an actor and performance artist. How would you suggest to break into the movie industry? Would theatre be a good start or would it be better to get started as an extra in movies? In my area is an amateur theatre looking for talent. I'm not sure which way to go. Any suggestions?

Should I ask my agent for recommendations for a headshot photographer?

Should I ask my agent for recommendations for a headshot photographer?

Posted on Jun 25th

I was thinking it would be good if they've got a photographer they prefer their actors to go to, but I'm not sure if that would come across as me being needy or needing handholding. I'm not even sure if that's a thing talent agents care about so long as the photos are good. I do have a headshot photographer in mind so I could present that as an option so I wouldn't seem like I was asking them to do all the work for me. I signed with this agency a few months ago, I was sent one audition right off the bat and then nothing since - I'm assuming this is because I'm not in their target city but I informed them I'd be moving there soon which is why they were okay with signing me. I thought maybe this email would be a nice way to also remind them I'm going to be moving soon and bump me back up on their radar, since I've noticed they've been signing a *lot* of new people lately. Let me know any thoughts!

What type of actor is most appealing to agents right now?

What type of actor is most appealing to agents right now?

Posted on Jun 25th

I just want to start off by saying that I am very new to acting and have no on-set experience so I have no intentions to submit to agencies at the moment. My question is what “look” would someone need to have in terms of age/race/ethnicity/etc for agencies to even consider looking at an actor with little or no experience?

Experience

Experience

Posted on Jun 25th

Finally became a working actor with various credits, how many credits and or general experience are good for booking constant work and getting reps interested? I know for a fact they love if you have film credits

What can I do to become an actor?

What can I do to become an actor?

Posted on Jun 25th

Okay, I know the title is super generic but here’s the gist: I am a software engineer in San Francisco and I’ve always wanted to explore acting and screenwriting. I looked up acting classes in San Francisco and it looks like the local theatre (the ACT, SF) has classes starting in Fall and I can apply as a beginner. I have no history of acting, singing or dancing, and I am painfully shy. The only thing I have going is a) wanting to explore theatre as a skill/hobby b) money and free time after work to do this. Can I do this? As someone with absolutely no theatre-y skills and really, just a desire to work in the industry, is that enough to apply at least? I am going to do that regardless of what folks say here, but I am hoping to find people like me, who basically started from zero, at a much later time in their lives (I am 30).

Really looking for advice

Really looking for advice

Posted on Jun 25th

So, i'm 20 years old and never have I thought about becoming an actor because it was never something that crossed my mind. My parents are far from the film industry, my dad is in the finance sector and my mom likes to make jewelry and design fashion, so acting was never something that crossed my path, until right now. For some reason, I have this gut feeling that acting feels right to me, for as long as I can remember I've been good at copying characters I enjoy, I sort of embody them for a while till I find the next person I enjoy playing (Damon Salvatore from TVD, Tommy Shelby from Peaky Blindsrs, etc), I start acting like them, and I've been told that i'm a great liar (which is kinda like acting right?). It's weird because even though i'm young, I still feel like it's too old to start acting, and it feels so WEIRD to even think about trying to be an actor because I've always been less about arts and more about science/math. I'm 100% sure that everyone who knows me would say that i'm the last person to become an actor so it's weird. What advice would you give me? What do i do?

sound treatment on the go

sound treatment on the go

Posted on Jun 24th

Hi everybody I'm an on stage actor in my main job and got into VA during the pandemic. While the theatres where closed I built myself a pretty nice homestudio with a vocal booth and worked from home. But now I start to land theatre jobs again and was wondering what your pro tips are to ensure professional audio quality while on the road (in hotel rooms or theatre provided flats).

Can I find work in Auckland, Newzealand?

Can I find work in Auckland, Newzealand?

Posted on Jun 24th

So, I (F15) will have to move to Newzealand from India next year. And yes, I'm an aspiring actress. I know about how it works in India (punjab) but in Newzealand... I don't know. And I'll be moving to Manurewa, Auckland. Manurewa is a major suburb in South Auckland, New Zealand. It was part of Manukau City before the creation of the Auckland super city in 2010. It is located 6 km south of the Manukau City Centre, and 26 km southeast of Auckland CBD. The suburb is bisected by the Auckland Southern Motorway. I know that ideal cities for actors are New York, LA, etc. But is Newzealand good? Will I be able to find work there? And also that I'll be in Manurewa. So if anyone knows about some agencies/casting directors/companies or anything there. And if you can recommend me to stay in India or Newzealand to pursue acting.

Is this agent legit?

Is this agent legit?

Posted on Jun 24th

Saw a post in my city’s actors group on Facebook saying an agency was looking for new clients. The have a page on IMDB but only three clients listed (one of which was the guy who originally posted). The main agent is also the wife of the guy (it says she got her start by being his agent). They do have a valid talent agency license though. Maybe they are just starting out? I don’t know if it’s worth my while though even if it’s legit.

Crusty Shenmue

Crusty Shenmue

Posted on Jun 24th

Good Morning/Afternoon/Night! I was curious to see if anyone happened to know a way to recreate the old, sort of crusty sound that the earlier Shenmue titles had. For those unaware of what this is, Shenmue was a hidden gem of sorts on the Dreamcast that had you following the adventure of Ryo as he tried to find his father's killer. Throughout the game, you're meant to engage with a ton of people, as such the game is very dialog heavy- and with a shoe string of a budget, the acting in the first game is rather interesting. I'll post a link of some random conversations within Shenmue and hopefully someone will know of a way to recreate this type of sound. I'm not very tech savvy or know a lick of what it takes to be a voice actor, so this is more so a curious question than a serious or "dire" question. https://youtu.be/dJd764u8fMc

Base setup for beginner voice actors?

Base setup for beginner voice actors?

Posted on Jun 24th

I really want to get started into voice acting, but my PC is ancient and kind of outdated is that going to be a major problem getting started i.e. using recording software and uploading? Thanks.

I’m Sag-eligible, I wanna know how you became Sag-E

I’m Sag-eligible, I wanna know how you became Sag-E

Posted on Jun 24th

I’m Sag-eligible now. I got my first sag waiver in 2019 and just got my last two in May. I’m now SAG-E. I was a featured extra on a show in 2019, and I was a photo double for an actress in May for a Netflix movie. Please share your story of how you gained your status or maybe if you’re trying to get your 1st waiver, what are you doing to get one? Whats your approach? (:

Actors on Actors videos?

Actors on Actors videos?

Posted on Jun 23rd

What are some Actors on Actors (or any interviews such as THR roundtables) that are a MUST WATCH for young actors?

Headshot-Age Range-Character Type Feedback

Headshot-Age Range-Character Type Feedback

Posted on Jun 23rd

Use this thread to post your headshots for feedback, get info on your age range/type, find good headshot photographers, ask any questions you may have about headshots. If you are posting a DIY headshot for feedback, and not just a snapshot in order to get feedback on your age range/type/etc, it is advised that you do at least some basic research on what actor headshots look like--composition, framing, lighting. You will find a Google Image search for "actor headshots" to be very helpful for this. Non-professional shots are fine for age/typecasting; please keep in mind that one picture is a difficult way to go about this. Video of you moving and speaking would be ideal, but understandably more difficult to post. For what it's worth, the branding workshop at SAG-AFTRA recommends a five-year age range. That's inclusive, so for example 19-23, 25-29, 34-38, etc.

Artistically inclined

Artistically inclined

Posted on Jun 23rd

As an actor, what's the importance of creating your own projects other than filling up your Resume?

My commercial dropped today! Not only my first commercial, but my first acting gig, period!

My commercial dropped today! Not only my first commercial, but my first acting gig, period!

Posted on Jun 23rd

[I filmed a commercial for Surly Brewing](https://fb.watch/dQje0AAuZF/), which is a beloved local craft brewery in Minnesota. The casting director and the AD are friends of mine and said I'd be perfect for the part (I'm the guy diving down the bar). We had a ton of fun filming it, and I made some new friends as well! Anyway, now I want to do this more. A lot more. I've wanted to be an actor for a long time, but life unfolded differently and I fell into telling myself that that ship had sailed. But then I think about actors like Dennis Farina and John Mahoney who started acting late in life, so I know there's always a door open. Is this commercial something I could use to find some representation? My gut tells me that one commercial, especially one with zero dialogue, is not enough to convince an agent to take me on, but thought I'd ask. I know that the world of acting has changed since the pandemic, and now it seems much easier to find work on places like Backstage. But I also know I need some acting classes, as I haven't done much acting since college. So I guess at this point I'm trying to figure out what my options are.

Confused on my next steps.

Confused on my next steps.

Posted on Jun 23rd

I'm an actress based in Los Angeles and would love some advice! To cut straight to the point, I'm wondering if I should seek out a manager or a theatrical agent. Right now commercials are my bread and butter. I've booked 10 in the last 11 months. All non union, but 75% of them are big brands. I booked them all through self submission. A few weeks ago I submitted to commercial agents in LA, and really struggled to get any responses, even with good commercial credits and being Sag-E. Luckily the stars aligned, and one reputable agent got back to me because he had an open spot on his roster for my type, and I signed with him. People always say its easy to get a commercial agent, but I really struggled. My next step is theatrical. I've been in ongoing weekly theatrical classes for a year and do really well in them. I meet with a new casting director every month and have always gotten positive feedback on my work and have been called in by them since taking the class. I go out for a lot of TV hosting gigs, and 75% of the time I make it to the final two after months of callbacks, and then don't book it for something specific out of my control. But I always come really really close. I don't really have any theatrical credits. A few parts in student films, and a few big parts on small tv shows from Oxygen or Lifetime, as well as Hosting for big brands. But no Greys Anatomy, Law & Order, stuff to that degree. I'm only able to audition for things that are available on the public breakdowns, so the "professional" work is limited. So back to my question, theatrical agent or manager next? If I had trouble getting a commercial agent with tons of credits, I know theatrical is going to be even harder with little credits. But for a manager, I book so many commercials, I don't know how I feel about giving up 40% of my paycheck. I want a manager to submit me to theatrical breakdowns, but to also help me get a theatrical agent. But my fear is that they may not have that pull, and then I'm stuck paying them my commercial booking money. Thoughts?

Tips for practicing acting at home (when you don't have actor friends nearby or someone to be a reader for you at home)?

Tips for practicing acting at home (when you don't have actor friends nearby or someone to be a reader for you at home)?

Posted on Jun 23rd

I recently had to pause acting classes as I am transitioning out of my full-time job. I have been a fashion model for 6 years and I signed to a manager who suggested I pause the acting classes so that I can get to a point where modeling is my primary source of income. I'd love to do all 3, but there just aren't enough hours in the day. If modeling (and commercial acting) is my primary source of $$$, I will have the flexibility I need to seriously pursue acting. I do not have that flexibility now, but things are taking off and I am booking more consistently. My manager says that she wants to send me to meet with commercial reps in 2 months, and I am putting in the work to polish my commercial acting skills (my 6 years of experience has mostly been fashion modeling, my commercial experience is minimal). I am taking on-camera and commercial classes twice a week in LA, which currently takes around 12 hours out of my week. I have time to practice at home, but I just do not have time for a technique or scene study classes... sadly. **I read scripts, but I don't do much else. I don't know how to go about practicing as I live alone, & I don't live near any actor friends to practice with/no one can be a reader for me unless I travel an hour to them.** This won't change for another 2-4 months. Does anyone have advice for practicing acting at home?

New Jersey Actors: Your Preferred Method to Get to Get to NYC Auditions and Set?

New Jersey Actors: Your Preferred Method to Get to Get to NYC Auditions and Set?

Posted on Jun 23rd

Hi all! I am a newbie and have a 9am call to set for two days. What is your preferred way to get to your auditions and jobs when you absolutely,positively must be on time? I don't know NYC well, so I'm a little intimidated by it all. ​ * Do you drive in and find a parking lot? How does one find a reputable lot? (I saw some online reviews of some, and it was concerning.) * Do you take the train in and then a taxi? How would that work if it's a late shoot or during commuter hours? Thanks for your insights. :)

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