5 Steps to Book Acting Work

Breaking into the acting industry can be challenging, but with persistence, preparation, and the right approach, you can increase your chances of booking acting work. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you book more work as an actor. 

STEP 1: ACTOR’S PACKAGE:

Ensuring your actor’s package is up to date is going to be vital to your career and is one of the most important tools to getting called in! Your actor’s package represents who you are as an actor, what your work looks like and what kind of roles you play. Remember your actor’s package is most often the first way that an Agent or Casting Director will meet you and your work, so making sure your materials are strong is the best way to stand out! 

1. Headshots

Your headshot is the first thing that Actor’s and Casting Director’s will see so making sure that your headshot looks like you and represents the roles that you play is key. Casting Directors will review your headshot to see if you fit the role they are casting so if you look different on tape that may affect your chances of booking the role. Remember there are a lot of actors submitting for each role, so even if you have versatility, if your headshots don’t represent the variety of roles you play, the casting director won’t know that! 

We know that headshots are expensive so we’re running a $200 headshot promotion, so if you’re looking to add a look to your portfolio or just to get a strong headshot that looks like you we’d recommend signing up here! 

2. Resume 

Your resume represents the work that you have completed as an actor, and helps Casting Directors and Agents know where you are in your career. If you’re just getting started don’t worry, Student Films and Regional Theater are great to see on resumes and also show people what kind of roles you’ve played. Including training is also very important and shows industry professionals that you are actively working on your craft. You can check out our resume template here. 

3. Acting Reel

Your acting reel is a reel or clips that show your previous work. This is the first opportunity you’ll have to show Agents and Casting Director’s your talent! This is a chance to show who you are as an actor and what kind of roles you can play. Remember, while it’s great to show your versatility, Agents also want to get to know who you are, lean into who you are and what makes you unique to stand out. There’s only one you! 

If you don’t have footage that represents you, we also offer a stellar acting reel program at AVS. Check out all the information here.

STEP 2: CASTING PLATFORMS:

Casting platforms are how you will book work! If you have representation they’ll need you to be set up on certain platforms in order to submit you for work. If you don’t have representation you can also submit yourself to Casting breakdowns, however, there are some projects that are only visible to representation. 

1. Actors Access

Actors Access is the main platform used by Agents, Managers and Casting Directors for Film  & Television work. Having a strong Actors Access profile with great headshots and up to date footage and reels is very important and will be a tool that many Agents will request to see prior to signing you! 

Other available casting platforms for actors are:

2. Casting Networks / LA Casting

3. Casting Frontier

4. Backstage

5. Also other helpful tools for actors are IMDbPro and UptoDateActor

STEP 3: NETWORKING:

1. Training

Acting training provides essential tools, techniques, and experiences that help actors refine their craft, develop their skills, and enhance their career prospects. Here’s why acting training is crucial for aspiring and seasoned actors alike. Different roles and genres require different approaches. Acting training exposes actors to various techniques and methodologies, such as:

• Method Acting: Focuses on deeply understanding and embodying a character's experiences and emotions.

• Meisner Technique: Emphasizes genuine reactions based on real-time interactions with scene partners.

• Stanislavski System: Encourages actors to draw from personal experiences to create believable performances.

Exposure to diverse techniques enables actors to choose the most effective approach for each role, enhancing their versatility.

Acting classes and workshops also provide valuable networking opportunities. By connecting with peers, instructors, and industry professionals, actors can:

Build Relationships: Forming bonds with classmates and teachers can lead to future collaborations and referrals.

Gain Insight: Instructors often share industry knowledge and advice, helping actors navigate their careers more effectively.

Acting training is an invaluable investment for any actor, providing the skills, confidence, and opportunities necessary for a successful career. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your craft, professional training can elevate your performances, open doors to new opportunities, and help you achieve your full potential as an actor.

2. Film Festivals & Events

Networking is a vital component of an actor's career, providing opportunities to connect with industry professionals, discover new projects, and enhance your visibility. Film festivals and industry events offer rich environments for these connections.

Attending screenings and panels are also excellent opportunities to learn and network with industry professionals. 

3. Showcases & Casting Director Classes

Agent showcases and casting director classes are invaluable tools for actors looking to advance their careers. By preparing thoroughly and following up professionally, you can make a lasting impression on industry professionals. See our upcoming showcases and casting director classes here. 

STEP 4: REPRESENTATION:

Securing representation as an actor is a pivotal step in building a successful career. Agents and managers provide access to more auditions, professional guidance, contract negotiation, marketing, support, and credibility. They help you navigate the complexities of the industry, allowing you to focus on your passion for acting while ensuring your career is on a positive trajectory. If you’re serious about your acting career, getting representation is an essential move that can bring you to the next level. 

Here are some way to connect with agents and managers:

1. Referrals: Ask fellow actors and your acting coaches for recommendations to their reps.

2. Cold-Emailing: It never hurts to email agents and managers directly but please keep in mind the following:

• Don’t bombard them with emails (send one email and follow up only when you have something to share like joining a union or booking a major role etc)

• Don’t make your email too long. Write the most impressive things about yourself that make you stand out and that would help you get called in. (1-2 paragraphs should be enough)

• Do your research and know who you’re emailing. Make sure to address everyone by their name and know what department they’re in before reaching out to them.

• Organize your materials and don’t attach them to the email instead you can create a Google Folder, upload all your materials there and share a link with them.

3. Agent Workshops & Showcases:

Connect with agents and managers during in-person or zoom classes and showcases. Perform for them and get their invaluable feedback. Please make sure you’re ready and well prepared with a polished scene as well as your Actor’s Package (headshots, resume and acting reel). Check out our upcoming agent and manager showcases here.

STEP 5: JOINING A UNION:

Joining an actors' union, such as the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) or Actors' Equity Association (AEA), is a significant milestone in an actor’s career. Unions offer numerous benefits, including contract protection, health and pension plans, and access to union-only auditions. However, timing is crucial, and deciding when to join can impact your career trajectory.