How to Become an Actor: A Comprehensive Guide to Kickstart Your Acting Career

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 21 June 2023 10 min read

If you've ever dreamed of seeing your name in lights or wondered how to become an actor, you're not alone. Many people share this aspiration, and with dedication and persistence, you too can make it happen. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the necessary steps to kickstart your acting career, from finding your passion to networking and self-promotion. So, let's dive in and start your journey towards the spotlight!

Getting Started

Before you can become the next big Hollywood star or Broadway sensation, you need to lay the groundwork for your acting career. Here's how to begin:

Finding Your Passion

First and foremost, you need to know what type of acting you're passionate about. Think about what excites you—whether it's film, television, or theater—and focus on that area. Consider the following:

Film acting: Are you drawn to the art of storytelling through movies?
TV acting: Do you enjoy the episodic nature of television shows and the opportunity to develop a character over time?
Theater acting: Is the allure of live performances and the immediate connection with the audience what you crave?

Researching the Industry

Now that you've identified your passion, it's essential to research the acting industry and understand the business side of it. This includes:

Studying the history of acting and different acting styles
Learning about the audition process and casting calls
Understanding the roles of agents, managers, and casting directors
Getting familiar with industry terms like “sides,” “callbacks,” and “cold reads”

Setting Realistic Goals

As you begin your journey to become an actor, it's important to set realistic goals to keep yourself motivated and on track. Break down your long-term goals into smaller, achievable milestones. For example:

Take an acting class or workshop
Audition for a local theater production
Build your portfolio with headshots and an acting reel
Network with industry professionals

Remember, success doesn't happen overnight. With patience and persistence, you'll steadily progress toward your dreams of becoming an actor.

Acting Classes and Workshops

One of the first steps in learning how to become an actor is to hone your craft through acting classes and workshops. These are invaluable resources for developing your skills, gaining experience, and making connections with other actors and industry professionals.

Local Acting Classes

Look for acting classes and workshops in your community. Local theaters, community centers, and colleges often offer classes for aspiring actors. These classes can help you:

Develop your acting technique
Improve your stage presence and confidence
Gain experience in performing scenes and monologues
Receive feedback from experienced instructors

Online Courses

If you're unable to attend in-person classes or want to supplement your learning, consider taking online acting courses. Many reputable acting schools and coaches offer virtual classes that cover topics such as:

Scene study
Character development
Improvisation
Script analysis

Online courses are a flexible way to learn at your own pace, wherever you are.

Workshops and Seminars

Attending workshops and seminars is another excellent way to expand your knowledge and skills. These events often feature guest speakers, such as accomplished actors, directors, and casting agents, who can provide valuable insights and advice. Workshops may also include:

Masterclasses on specific acting techniques
Q&A sessions with industry professionals
Opportunities to perform and receive feedback
Networking events to connect with others in the acting community

By participating in workshops and seminars, you'll deepen your understanding of the acting world and continue to grow as an actor.

Building Your Portfolio

As you learn how to become an actor, it's essential to create a portfolio that showcases your talent and experience. A strong portfolio will help you make a great impression on casting directors and agents, increasing your chances of landing auditions and roles.

Headshots

A professional headshot is a must-have for actors. This photograph represents your first impression, so it's crucial to invest in a high-quality image that captures your personality and essence. When taking your headshot, make sure to:

Choose a skilled photographer who specializes in actor headshots
Wear clothing that complements your appearance and reflects your style
Experiment with different expressions and angles to find the perfect shot
Update your headshot regularly as you change or gain experience

Acting Reel

An acting reel is a compilation of your best performances, showcasing your range and versatility as an actor. To create an effective reel, be sure to:

Select scenes that highlight your strengths and unique qualities
Include a variety of genres and emotions to demonstrate your range
Edit your reel professionally, keeping it concise and engaging
Update your reel as you gain new experience and footage

Resume

Your acting resume is a snapshot of your experience, training, and special skills. When crafting your resume, remember to:

Organize your experience by category, such as film, television, and theater
List your most recent and relevant roles first
Include your training, such as acting classes, workshops, and degrees
Mention any special skills that make you stand out, like singing, dancing, or even juggling
Keep your resume to one page, making it easy for casting directors and agents to review

By building a strong portfolio, you'll be well-prepared to showcase your talents and make a lasting impression in the acting world.

Finding an Agent

Once you have a solid portfolio, the next step in learning how to become an actor is finding an agent. A good agent can open doors to auditions, provide guidance on your career, and negotiate contracts on your behalf. Here's how to find the right agent for you:

Agency Research

Start by researching reputable agencies that represent actors in your desired field, such as film, television, or theater. When researching agencies, consider the following:

Look for agencies with a strong track record of representing actors in your niche
Research the agent's client list and success stories to gauge their experience
Read reviews and testimonials from other actors to get a sense of the agency's reputation

Interview Process

Once you've identified potential agents, it's time to reach out and set up interviews. During the interview process, be prepared to:

Present your portfolio, including your headshot, acting reel, and resume
Discuss your goals, experience, and what you're looking for in an agent
Ask questions about the agent's approach, communication style, and expectations
Request references from current or former clients

It's important to find an agent who understands your goals, believes in your talent, and has a compatible working style.

Building Relationships

Establishing a strong relationship with your agent is crucial for a successful acting career. To build a healthy working relationship, make sure to:

Communicate openly and honestly about your expectations and concerns
Be professional and punctual in all interactions
Take their advice and feedback seriously, as they have your best interests in mind
Show appreciation for their efforts and celebrate your successes together

By finding the right agent and fostering a strong relationship, you'll be well on your way to unlocking exciting opportunities in your acting career.

Auditioning

Auditions are a vital part of learning how to become an actor. They provide opportunities to showcase your talent and secure roles. Here's how to prepare for auditions and increase your chances of success:

Preparing for Auditions

Being well-prepared is essential for a successful audition. Here are some steps to help you get ready:

Read the entire script or scene, not just your lines, to understand the context and tone
Memorize your lines and practice them out loud, experimenting with different interpretations
Research the production, director, and casting director to better understand their preferences and styles
Prepare a few questions or insights about the character or scene to demonstrate your engagement and thoughtfulness

Choosing Monologues

In some auditions, you may be asked to perform a monologue. When selecting a monologue, consider the following:

Pick a piece that showcases your strengths and range as an actor
Choose a monologue that is age-appropriate and relatable to the character you're auditioning for
Ensure the monologue is not overly popular or overdone, as casting directors may have seen it multiple times
Rehearse your monologue extensively, exploring different emotions and delivery styles

Callbacks

If your initial audition is successful, you may be invited to a callback. A callback is another opportunity to impress the casting director and secure the role. To prepare for callbacks, make sure to:

Review any feedback from the initial audition and apply it to your performance
Rehearse the scene or monologue with any new adjustments or directions
Prepare to interact with other actors, as callbacks often involve reading scenes with potential scene partners
Maintain a professional attitude, as callback environments can be more intense and competitive

By thoroughly preparing for auditions and callbacks, you'll be well on your way to securing roles and furthering your acting career.

Acting in Film and TV

Knowing how to become an actor in film and television involves understanding the unique aspects of these mediums. Here's what you need to know about acting for the screen:

Understanding Film Acting

Film acting requires specific techniques and approaches. Here are some key elements to consider when acting on film:

Subtlety is important, as the camera picks up even the smallest facial expressions and gestures
Focus on the emotional truth of the scene, allowing the camera to capture your genuine reactions
Be aware of the camera's position and angle, adjusting your movements and expressions accordingly
Learn to hit your marks, as precise positioning is crucial for continuity and framing

TV Acting

Television acting shares similarities with film acting but has its unique characteristics. To excel in TV acting, keep these points in mind:

TV productions often have tighter schedules, requiring you to learn your lines and blocking quickly
Episodic TV shows may develop your character over time, so be prepared to adapt your performance as the story evolves
Understand the different formats, such as sitcoms, dramas, and reality TV, and adjust your acting style accordingly
Be prepared for multiple takes and the potential for reshoots as scenes may be reworked or adjusted

Working on Set

Being professional and adaptable on set is crucial for success in film and TV acting. Here are some tips to make your time on set enjoyable and productive:

Arrive on time and be prepared, knowing your lines and the schedule for the day
Listen to the director and other crew members, taking direction and applying feedback
Respect your fellow actors and their process, collaborating to create the best scene possible
Stay patient and positive, as film and TV sets can involve long hours and waiting between scenes

By mastering these film and TV acting skills, you'll be well-equipped to shine on screen and further your acting career.

Acting in Theater

Becoming an actor in theater requires a different set of skills compared to film and television. Here's what you need to know to excel on stage and become an accomplished theater actor:

Getting Involved in Local Theater

Local theater is a fantastic starting point for aspiring actors. Here's how you can get involved:

Audition for community theater productions or join a local theater group to gain experience
Volunteer for behind-the-scenes roles, such as set building or stage management, to learn more about the theater process
Attend local theater performances to support the community and network with fellow actors and theater professionals
Consider joining a local improv group to develop your acting skills in a fun, dynamic environment

Broadway Dreams

If your ultimate goal is to perform on Broadway, keep these points in mind as you pursue your theater career:

Consider attending a reputable acting school or conservatory that specializes in theater training
Develop your singing and dancing skills, as many Broadway shows are musicals and require versatile performers
Seek representation from an agent who specializes in theater and has connections to Broadway productions
Be persistent, auditioning for as many productions as possible and continually working on your craft

Stage Craft

Theater acting has its unique techniques and elements that set it apart from film and TV. To become a skilled stage actor, hone these skills:

Projection: Ensure your voice reaches the back of the theater without straining or shouting
Stage presence: Learn to command attention and exude confidence on stage
Blocking: Memorize your movements and positions on stage, understanding how they contribute to the overall production
Character development: Delve into your character's backstory and motivations to create a believable and engaging performance

By focusing on these theater-specific skills, you'll be well on your way to becoming a successful stage actor and captivating audiences with your performances.

Networking and Self-Promotion

As an actor, promoting yourself and building connections within the industry are vital to your success. Here's how to effectively network and self-promote:

Creating a Website

A personal website is a must-have for actors looking to showcase their talents. To create an effective website, consider these tips:

Choose a user-friendly design that highlights your headshots, resume, and acting reel
Include a brief bio, showcasing your personality and unique qualities
Add a contact form or provide an email address for casting directors and agents to reach you
Regularly update your website with new projects, achievements, and professional photos

Having a strong social media presence can help you gain exposure and connect with other professionals. Here's how to make the most of your social media accounts:

Choose the right platforms for your goals, such as Instagram for visuals and Twitter for networking
Post consistently and engage with your followers to build your online community
Share behind-the-scenes content, industry news, and your latest projects to showcase your passion for acting
Connect with fellow actors, directors, and industry professionals to expand your network

Making Industry Contacts

Building relationships with key industry contacts can help open doors and create opportunities. Here's how to make valuable connections:

Attend industry events, such as workshops, conferences, and film festivals, to meet new people and learn about the latest trends
Join local acting groups or associations to connect with like-minded individuals and stay informed about auditions and opportunities
Stay in touch with classmates, teachers, and colleagues from past projects, as they may become valuable contacts in the future
Be genuine and professional in your interactions, and always follow up with new contacts to nurture your relationships

By actively networking and promoting yourself, you'll increase your visibility in the acting world and be better equipped to land the roles you desire.

If you're an aspiring actor looking to break into the industry, don't miss Jessy Moussallem's workshop 'Breaking Into Acting: 9 Tips for Aspiring Actors'. This workshop provides valuable tips and insights on how to navigate the acting world and set yourself up for success. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from an industry professional!