Want to become an actor? Here's how to start.

​​So, you want to become an actor?
Here are some of the best steps taken by those pursuing an acting career: 
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Enrol in Acting Classes
When embarking on you career in acting, gaining experience and improving upon your existing skills is your number one priority. This will massively improve your ability as well as give you chance to network with other actors. 

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Low budget and student films
Another great way to gain acting experience is working on low budget projects and student films. These projects are usually non-paid; however, they provide actors with a brilliant opportunity to go through the process of being cast in a film; auditioning, acting for screen, working with fellow cast members, directors, and producers. Not to mention, these films provide new actors with fantastic footage to add to their showreel. 

Get off Extras Agencies
Casting teams do their due diligence when looking at actors applying for their roles, if your credits are solely as extras they will not consider you a professional actor. Extra work can be great experience as you get to work on large scale sets and understand the process of onset production, however it should be treated as just that, experience – not credits.

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Professional Headshots and a Showreel
When applying for acting roles, it is essential to have a professional headshot. This is your first impression to a casting team and will make or break whether you are seen. Ensuring you have a series of professional headshots that accurately show what you look like is very important, especially when casting directors are looking for a certain look.
 
Another industry standard is having a showreel, featuring some of your best performances. It is a way of demonstrating your ability as an actor and showcasing any work you have done in the past. A strong showreel can push your chances to be seen even without a large number of credits.

Get an Agent
​If you are serious about acting and pursuing this career path, finding an agent is an important step. A smaller talent agency which specialises in working with new and upcoming actors is a great option. An agent will become your first port of call and connection to the industry. 

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​Say Yes!
With an agent behind you, you will start to be suggested for roles. In the early stages of your acting career, no matter the size of the role, you should grasp the opportunity with both hands. Landing roles can be difficult especially as an upcoming actor so going the extra mile is vital. The more auditions you attend the more likely you’ll get more experience, contacts, recognition and industry credits.