One of the most exciting times of the year for actors is pilot season. If you’re new to the industry, you’re probably wondering what the heck I’m talking about. Let me explain.
A lot goes into launching a new network series. So much so, that many series actually never make it to the primetime lineup. A pilot episode is an episode of a new series that’s taped so that networks can submit it to advertisers, test audiences and the media to begin gauging responses and building a buzz.
Pilot season refers to the time of year that networks begin casting for pilot episodes. While pilot season generally begins in January, some shows can begin casting even earlier. Casting for pilots is a huge deal for actors for several reasons. First, dozens of pilots are shot each season, so there are lots of opportunities to get in front of top casting agents and producers. Secondly, if you’ve ever dreamed of landing a job on a major television network series, pilot season is by far your best shot. And third, if you book a show that doesn’t get “picked up” (selected to air during the upcoming season), simply booking the pilot is a major career accomplishment! When you tape a pilot, casting directors and producers will often remember you when other opportunities arise, which often means a really great shot at other major roles in the future.
In 1999, Busy Phillips (White Chicks) booked a pilot entitled, Saving Graces. Although the pilot was never aired, she got a lot of great exposure and later went on to book a number of really great roles on various television series like Malcolm in the Middle, Dawson’s Creek, How I Met Your Mother as well as several roles in major motion pictures. Sure it was a bummer when Saving Graces didn’t make the fall lineup, but despite that one little bump in the road, Busy went on to become a popular, working actress.
Pilot season could be a great opportunity for you to get your foot in the door so make sure you’re ready! As casting directors gear up for this busy time of the year, be very vigilant about checking updated casting notices and audition information on our website. You never know, I might be watching you on a major network series next fall! Good luck!
Check back tomorrow, I’ll be talking about the reality of show business.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
CHOOSING AN AGENT: What’s the difference between a theatrical and a commercial agent?
Choosing an agent is a lot like choosing a hairstylist. Some stylists are really great at creative haircuts, while others might specialize in coloring - and some are great at both. As the client, you can decide to have more than one stylist, or pick one that can do it all.
It’s the same with choosing an agent. Did you know that many actors may have more than one agent? While some agencies are full service companies, representing a number of talents, many specialize in just one or a couple things.
The most common agents are theatrical and commercial. Theatrical agents specialize in booking their clients work on movies and television shows. Commercial agents specialize in booking their clients for commercials. If you research agents in your area, you will probably also find agents that specialize in voice-over, print, and dance.
When trying to find an agent it’s very important that you 1) determine your strengths as a performer and 2) know what the agents you’re submitting to specialize in. For example, if you’ve been told that you’d be really great in commercials, then you’ll want to invest your energy in finding a really great commercial agent.
Many aspiring actors mass mail their headshots and cover letters thinking that they’ll increase their chances of getting an agent if they send their packages to as many agents as possible. While that can be effective, it’s also very important that you make sure that the agents you’re submitting to can represent your strengths.
There are hundreds of agents in the Talent Resources section of our website. If you’re not sure what an agency specializes in you can look the up via the web or call their office and make an inquiry.
And don’t forget, if you’re looking for a referral, be sure post a message on our bulletin board. Another member may be able to offer direction when it comes to working with specific agencies.
If you’ve heard people talk about “pilot season” but you’re not really sure what the buzz is about, don’t miss tomorrows blog.
It’s the same with choosing an agent. Did you know that many actors may have more than one agent? While some agencies are full service companies, representing a number of talents, many specialize in just one or a couple things.
The most common agents are theatrical and commercial. Theatrical agents specialize in booking their clients work on movies and television shows. Commercial agents specialize in booking their clients for commercials. If you research agents in your area, you will probably also find agents that specialize in voice-over, print, and dance.
When trying to find an agent it’s very important that you 1) determine your strengths as a performer and 2) know what the agents you’re submitting to specialize in. For example, if you’ve been told that you’d be really great in commercials, then you’ll want to invest your energy in finding a really great commercial agent.
Many aspiring actors mass mail their headshots and cover letters thinking that they’ll increase their chances of getting an agent if they send their packages to as many agents as possible. While that can be effective, it’s also very important that you make sure that the agents you’re submitting to can represent your strengths.
There are hundreds of agents in the Talent Resources section of our website. If you’re not sure what an agency specializes in you can look the up via the web or call their office and make an inquiry.
And don’t forget, if you’re looking for a referral, be sure post a message on our bulletin board. Another member may be able to offer direction when it comes to working with specific agencies.
If you’ve heard people talk about “pilot season” but you’re not really sure what the buzz is about, don’t miss tomorrows blog.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
THE BUSINESS OF ACTING: AGENTS AND MANAGERS FEES
One of the biggest advantages of our website is that thousands of actors, dancers, singers and models are able to audition for and book really great jobs without an agent. However, many of our members will eventually get representation and it’s important to be aware of some of the business practices that go along with signing with an agent or manager.
There are lots of perks that come with a career in the entertainment industry. One of those perks is the money. An actor that works regularly can make a great living doing what they love. Many SAG actors (members of Screen Actors Guild) make an average of $1000 a day while working on a major motion picture. But while the money can be a huge draw, it’s important to be aware of where a lot of your money goes. Aside from taxes, union dues and other expenditures like headshots, classes or any other valuable investments in your career – first and foremost you have to pay the people that represent you.
Just like any other industry, in entertainment there’s a cost for doing business. Agents charge a commission for any work that you book. Most will charge on average 10-15% of your gross earnings - that means before any other fees, such as taxes are taken out. If you have a manger, in addition to your agent, that can be an additional 10-15%. Some agents even charge fees for other services such as couriers (although these fees are generally miniscule.)
Often when we think of Hollywood careers, we think of the glitz, glamour, fortune and fame. But it’s important to look at the entire picture when you’re considering a career in the entertainment industry. It is a fantastic industry to work in, but it’s important to learn about all of the aspects of the business that face you on the journey ahead.
If you have questions about agency commissions, or any other questions related to the business of the industry, feel free to drop me a line or visit the message board on my website to talk to other actors, singers, dancers and models that are finding their way in the industry.
And check back tomorrow for more information on choosing an agent! Thanks for reading my blog!
There are lots of perks that come with a career in the entertainment industry. One of those perks is the money. An actor that works regularly can make a great living doing what they love. Many SAG actors (members of Screen Actors Guild) make an average of $1000 a day while working on a major motion picture. But while the money can be a huge draw, it’s important to be aware of where a lot of your money goes. Aside from taxes, union dues and other expenditures like headshots, classes or any other valuable investments in your career – first and foremost you have to pay the people that represent you.
Just like any other industry, in entertainment there’s a cost for doing business. Agents charge a commission for any work that you book. Most will charge on average 10-15% of your gross earnings - that means before any other fees, such as taxes are taken out. If you have a manger, in addition to your agent, that can be an additional 10-15%. Some agents even charge fees for other services such as couriers (although these fees are generally miniscule.)
Often when we think of Hollywood careers, we think of the glitz, glamour, fortune and fame. But it’s important to look at the entire picture when you’re considering a career in the entertainment industry. It is a fantastic industry to work in, but it’s important to learn about all of the aspects of the business that face you on the journey ahead.
If you have questions about agency commissions, or any other questions related to the business of the industry, feel free to drop me a line or visit the message board on my website to talk to other actors, singers, dancers and models that are finding their way in the industry.
And check back tomorrow for more information on choosing an agent! Thanks for reading my blog!
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
BUILD YOUR RESUME AND REEL
If you search the profiles on my website, you’ll see that some members have lots of experience, while others have very little or none. If you’re a new actor, it can be very frustrating the first time you sit down to create your resume. How do you create a resume if you don’t really have anything to put on it?
A great way to get experience that you can add to your resume is to audition for student projects. Student filmmakers are required to produce and direct several projects over the course of their program and they actively search for actors they can cast in various roles. While playing a role in a student-directed production may not sound glamorous there are several reasons why it could help your career.
Booking student-directed projects is a great way to build your resume. Have you ever compared your resume to samples you’ve seen on the internet and wondered if you’ll ever get that many credits? By submitting yourself for student projects, you have a great opportunity to play a variety of parts while getting valuable experience, and continually building your resume.
Secondly, it’s a great way to start building a reel. A reel is a collection of clips of your past work that you or your agent can create. A reel can be useful in many situations. You can send it to agents as an alternative to just sending a cover letter and headshot. Also if you want to audition for a part that’s out of state and you’re unable to travel, a reel can be a great way to get the attention of a casting director.
And lastly, participating in student-directed projects is a great way to network. You get to work with other creative individuals with an interest in your craft. And you never know which student director could be the next Scorsese or Coppola. Imagine being able to say that you knew an Academy award winning director when he was just starting his career. Not to mention that by keeping in touch you can establish great relationships that could very well benefit you later in your career.
We have tons of casting notices for student productions on our site. Take a look and start building your resume today. Another great way to land opportunities and start building your resume is The Best Talent Awards, Hollywood’s premier talent showcase. Join Star Search Casting and apply for a scholarship to attend this once in a lifetime opportunity.
Tomorrow I’ll share more information about The Best Talent Awards. It’s an amazing opportunity you won’t want to miss.
A great way to get experience that you can add to your resume is to audition for student projects. Student filmmakers are required to produce and direct several projects over the course of their program and they actively search for actors they can cast in various roles. While playing a role in a student-directed production may not sound glamorous there are several reasons why it could help your career.
Booking student-directed projects is a great way to build your resume. Have you ever compared your resume to samples you’ve seen on the internet and wondered if you’ll ever get that many credits? By submitting yourself for student projects, you have a great opportunity to play a variety of parts while getting valuable experience, and continually building your resume.
Secondly, it’s a great way to start building a reel. A reel is a collection of clips of your past work that you or your agent can create. A reel can be useful in many situations. You can send it to agents as an alternative to just sending a cover letter and headshot. Also if you want to audition for a part that’s out of state and you’re unable to travel, a reel can be a great way to get the attention of a casting director.
And lastly, participating in student-directed projects is a great way to network. You get to work with other creative individuals with an interest in your craft. And you never know which student director could be the next Scorsese or Coppola. Imagine being able to say that you knew an Academy award winning director when he was just starting his career. Not to mention that by keeping in touch you can establish great relationships that could very well benefit you later in your career.
We have tons of casting notices for student productions on our site. Take a look and start building your resume today. Another great way to land opportunities and start building your resume is The Best Talent Awards, Hollywood’s premier talent showcase. Join Star Search Casting and apply for a scholarship to attend this once in a lifetime opportunity.
Tomorrow I’ll share more information about The Best Talent Awards. It’s an amazing opportunity you won’t want to miss.
Monday, October 15, 2007
HOW TO SING YOUR WAY TO STARDOM
I was checking out some of the latest posts on the site and there are so many great opportunities for singers. I’ve met a lot of aspiring solo artists who have experienced difficulty landing a contract and have become discouraged. If you fall into this category, don’t give up. There are lots of ways to climb the ladder of success in the recording arts industry.
The bottom line is that landing opportunities in any area of the entertainment industry can be a challenge. It’s rare that anyone goes from singing into their hair brush in the bathroom mirror to winning a Grammy overnight. Most stars will tell you that it can be a long road to success. But if it’s really your dream to become a chart topping singer, then you’ll be willing to commit the time and effort required to get there.
Often we want to be thrust into the spotlight immediately. But more than likely you’ll have to work your way up. One of the most important tools to landing a recording contract is getting in front of the right people – which can be difficult. Sometimes you have to piggyback on others in the industry in order to get to where you need to be. Let me share a few examples.
Find a Songwriter:
Songwriters often look for singers when they are creating demos in order to showcase their work to labels. By singing on a songwriter’s demo, when the demo is being shopped, your voice is heard by entertainment executives, artists and producers that could help to propel your career. While you may not be paid for your time and talent, it’s a great opportunity for exposure.
Join a Group:
Even if you want to be a solo artist, don’t turn down opportunities to be in a group. Some of the most successful solo artists were once members of groups. Justin Timberlake (N’Sync) and Beyonce (Destiny’s Child) have sold millions of albums as solo artists, but both began their careers as members of a group. Remember, you want exposure. Take advantage of every opportunity that arises to help you get in front of lots of people and showcase your talents.
Sing Backup:
Singing backup is a great way to get started in the business. You’ll get great experience, make great contacts and get amazing exposure. Those three factors could payoff big for you and you could be well on your way to stardom in no time. Many great singers started off as background singers.
When you’re working towards big dreams, it’s important to have an open mind. Get to know everyone in the business, from the studio engineers to the promoter of your local open mic. Sometimes a strategy that you hadn’t considered might be just the thing that gets you in the door.
There are a lot of opportunities on my site for aspiring singers. Check them out and give every opportunity a try. You’ve got nothing to lose but your day job.
Check in tomorrow to learn how to build your resume and your reel.
The bottom line is that landing opportunities in any area of the entertainment industry can be a challenge. It’s rare that anyone goes from singing into their hair brush in the bathroom mirror to winning a Grammy overnight. Most stars will tell you that it can be a long road to success. But if it’s really your dream to become a chart topping singer, then you’ll be willing to commit the time and effort required to get there.
Often we want to be thrust into the spotlight immediately. But more than likely you’ll have to work your way up. One of the most important tools to landing a recording contract is getting in front of the right people – which can be difficult. Sometimes you have to piggyback on others in the industry in order to get to where you need to be. Let me share a few examples.
Find a Songwriter:
Songwriters often look for singers when they are creating demos in order to showcase their work to labels. By singing on a songwriter’s demo, when the demo is being shopped, your voice is heard by entertainment executives, artists and producers that could help to propel your career. While you may not be paid for your time and talent, it’s a great opportunity for exposure.
Join a Group:
Even if you want to be a solo artist, don’t turn down opportunities to be in a group. Some of the most successful solo artists were once members of groups. Justin Timberlake (N’Sync) and Beyonce (Destiny’s Child) have sold millions of albums as solo artists, but both began their careers as members of a group. Remember, you want exposure. Take advantage of every opportunity that arises to help you get in front of lots of people and showcase your talents.
Sing Backup:
Singing backup is a great way to get started in the business. You’ll get great experience, make great contacts and get amazing exposure. Those three factors could payoff big for you and you could be well on your way to stardom in no time. Many great singers started off as background singers.
When you’re working towards big dreams, it’s important to have an open mind. Get to know everyone in the business, from the studio engineers to the promoter of your local open mic. Sometimes a strategy that you hadn’t considered might be just the thing that gets you in the door.
There are a lot of opportunities on my site for aspiring singers. Check them out and give every opportunity a try. You’ve got nothing to lose but your day job.
Check in tomorrow to learn how to build your resume and your reel.
Friday, October 12, 2007
LOOK THE PART
One of our Star Search Casting members recently wrote in:
"I love this website! I just signed up, and in an hour I had found 10 auditions that would be perfect for me. Thanks, SSC!!!!!!!!"
Brianna Redding, Pennsylvania
I love that we can provide so many opportunities for talented people from so many different regions. If you haven’t had a chance to check out the auditions on our site, be sure to visit us today. There are lots of new opportunities posted.
While many of our members get an opportunity to audition for a variety of productions, quite a few are new to the industry and aren’t really sure what to expect on their first audition. Lots of people have questions like, What should I wear? Or How should I wear my hair?
If you’ve been called in by a casting director who’s seen your headshot (as opposed to an open call), try to look as much like your photo as possible. Don’t send in a picture and then change your hair color and hairstyle.
Be professional and neat in appearance. An audition is very much like an interview. You don’t want to wear anything that might be considered sloppy or inappropriate.
Make sure you’re age appropriate. If you’re auditioning for a Disney role, be sure to look fresh and youthful. If you’re going after a more mature role, make sure your hair, makeup and outfit reflect that.
Be trendy and fashionable, but don’t over do it. You don’t want to show up in anything that will distract from your audition.
Make sure you’re comfortable. You don’t want to inhibit your ability to perform because you’re insecure about what you’re wearing, or because your feet hurt.
Remember, you only get one chance to make a first impression. So one of the most important things you’ll need to wear is a winning, confident smile.
Check back on Monday for tips on how to launch your career as a singer. If you have questions about any topics in my blog, or any other questions about the entertainment industry, feel free to submit them in the comments section and I’ll be happy to address them.
"I love this website! I just signed up, and in an hour I had found 10 auditions that would be perfect for me. Thanks, SSC!!!!!!!!"
Brianna Redding, Pennsylvania
I love that we can provide so many opportunities for talented people from so many different regions. If you haven’t had a chance to check out the auditions on our site, be sure to visit us today. There are lots of new opportunities posted.
While many of our members get an opportunity to audition for a variety of productions, quite a few are new to the industry and aren’t really sure what to expect on their first audition. Lots of people have questions like, What should I wear? Or How should I wear my hair?
If you’ve been called in by a casting director who’s seen your headshot (as opposed to an open call), try to look as much like your photo as possible. Don’t send in a picture and then change your hair color and hairstyle.
Be professional and neat in appearance. An audition is very much like an interview. You don’t want to wear anything that might be considered sloppy or inappropriate.
Make sure you’re age appropriate. If you’re auditioning for a Disney role, be sure to look fresh and youthful. If you’re going after a more mature role, make sure your hair, makeup and outfit reflect that.
Be trendy and fashionable, but don’t over do it. You don’t want to show up in anything that will distract from your audition.
Make sure you’re comfortable. You don’t want to inhibit your ability to perform because you’re insecure about what you’re wearing, or because your feet hurt.
Remember, you only get one chance to make a first impression. So one of the most important things you’ll need to wear is a winning, confident smile.
Check back on Monday for tips on how to launch your career as a singer. If you have questions about any topics in my blog, or any other questions about the entertainment industry, feel free to submit them in the comments section and I’ll be happy to address them.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
ARE YOU A TRIPLE THREAT?
We’re gearing up for The Best Talent Awards which will take place this November in Los Angeles. We had so many talented participants last year and over 40% of them were hired for work! While I was blown away by how many really great actors, dancers, singers and models there were – I was really impressed to see how many people were multi-talented and had mastered more than one craft.
In the entertainment industry, a “triple threat” refers to someone who can act, dance and sing well. Take the cast of High School Musical for example. It’s a high energy production with an incredibly talented cast, many of whom had to act, dance and sing to land their roles.
While it’s great to be a really good actor or a really great singer, you never know when the role of a lifetime will call for you to have more than one skill. It’s important when you’re preparing for a career in the entertainment industry that you are versatile and well-rounded. Learning to do several things rather than mastering just one skill can greatly increase your chances of booking really great roles.
Many actors have a “Special Skills” category on their resume. While singing and dancing can be listed here, you can also include languages, dialects, sports, instruments, stunts or any other special skills you may have that make you unique. Having lots of talents can be really helpful when you’re going after a role.
Often people are tempted to fudge this section of the resume, but this is a big DON’T. Instead, take advantage of classes or training in your area to pick up additional skills that will make you more marketable.
We have lots of classes listed on the Star Search Casting website that you can check out. I think you’ll find that classes can be lots of fun and a great way to meet and network with others in the industry.
Be sure to check in tomorrow to learn more about how to look the part when you go on an audition!
In the entertainment industry, a “triple threat” refers to someone who can act, dance and sing well. Take the cast of High School Musical for example. It’s a high energy production with an incredibly talented cast, many of whom had to act, dance and sing to land their roles.
While it’s great to be a really good actor or a really great singer, you never know when the role of a lifetime will call for you to have more than one skill. It’s important when you’re preparing for a career in the entertainment industry that you are versatile and well-rounded. Learning to do several things rather than mastering just one skill can greatly increase your chances of booking really great roles.
Many actors have a “Special Skills” category on their resume. While singing and dancing can be listed here, you can also include languages, dialects, sports, instruments, stunts or any other special skills you may have that make you unique. Having lots of talents can be really helpful when you’re going after a role.
Often people are tempted to fudge this section of the resume, but this is a big DON’T. Instead, take advantage of classes or training in your area to pick up additional skills that will make you more marketable.
We have lots of classes listed on the Star Search Casting website that you can check out. I think you’ll find that classes can be lots of fun and a great way to meet and network with others in the industry.
Be sure to check in tomorrow to learn more about how to look the part when you go on an audition!
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