What Is Required to Become an Actor?

Aspiring actors must meet certain requirements.

Becoming a successful actor takes dedication, practice and thoughtful research. An acting career varies in scope and direction, from the big screen to theater, television to theme park, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Each direction differs in preparation, but the nature of the work remains constant.

Education

Many aspiring actors begin in school or college theater arts.

Successful actors vary in background. However, some formal training maximizes career success rate. The Bureau of Labor Statistics explains that most actors receive some form of theatrical education, from high school theater to university majors, and from independent production companies to formal workshops. Not only do these outlets provide experience and formal training, but such involvement expresses a certain dedication separating those serious about an acting career from those merely fantasizing about such a career path. This experience speaks volumes on an acting resume, according to the New York Conservatory for the Dramatic Arts.

Headshots

Too much jewelry distracts from a quality headshot.

Regardless of skill or experience, an actor needs quality headshots. Research a reputable photographer, because good headshots are often the first, and sometimes only, exposure seen by agents, producers and casting directors. According to Zero Dean, photographer, headshots should focus on the subject without excess distraction or accessory. Zero Dean stresses the importance of using a headshot that accurately represents the subject. A headshot that does not accurately represent the actor benefits neither the actor nor casting directors.

Work Free

Working as an extra is a good way to network and make money acting.

Unfortunately, aspiring actors must pursue free and low-pay gigs. They also should consider opportunities to participate as an extra. While initially disheartening, this activity separates the dedicated from those pursuing an acting career for the wrong reasons. This work, documented in an acting resume, shows agencies and casting directors dedication and experience. These opportunities also offer networking chances that often lead to higher-paying gigs.

Agencies and the Union

To reach the red carpet, aspiring actors must work hard to promote themselves.

An established dedication, shown in a resume, proves to agencies that you are serious about your career choice. Research and speak to many agencies, and submit an established resume and quality headshots to those agencies you favor. Agencies, according to AuditionAgency, vary by type and prestige, and can greatly advance an aspiring actor. This is because, AuditionAgency continues, agencies have access to gigs that most self-representing actors lack. Finally, with enough experience, an actor can join the Screen Actors Guild, the authoritative actors' union.

Warnings

Agencies must take an intrinsic interest in the actor in order to reach success for both parties.

Nearly all reputable agencies charge a commission, so make sure to read any contracts carefully. Also, beware of any talent agencies, photographers or representatives that lack genuine interest in your success, instead demanding a large amount of up-front money. Avoid this with proper research. Remember, not all actors become famous, and one should pursue the career because of a passion, not a desire to get rich or famous. The Bureau of Labor Statistics explains that constant rejection litters the career path, so aspiring actors would do well to understand and accept this fact, instead of allowing such rejections to disappoint or disillusion.

Job Outlook

The road to the big screen is difficult, but dedication and commitment can take aspiring actors a long way.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics admits that the pursuit of an acting career is hard work and includes long hours, hardly encompassing the glamour many aspiring actors assume. Because of this, the bureau continues, many actors leave the field prematurely. Those aspiring actors should consider the dedication and hard work involved, and, if the career still appeals, never give up such dreams.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Acting
• BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011: Actors, Producers and Directors
• The New York Conservatory For Dramatic Arts: Industry Tips
• Zerotopia: Zero Dean Photography

Resources

• Screen Actors Guild