How to Become a Commercial Actor
Acting in commercials is much different than acting on-stage or in a motion picture. While most actors in movies are taking on the role of a certain character, commercial actors are often chosen based on their appearance and personality as it applies for certain roles. However, like becoming a movie actor, commercial acting is a hard business, and it requires diligence if you hope to be successful.
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Instructions
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Complete a resume of your applicable skills. Just like any job, acting in commercials requires a decent resume that showcases your skills and accomplishments in the field. You resume should be short and succinct and sized to fit behind an 8 by 10 inch headshot.
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Visit a professional photographer and have them take a bunch of headshots that you will use in combination with your resume. Headshots are an important part of applying for an acting gig because commercial acting is all about physical appearance. Your headshot should be 8 by 10 inches and should be kept to date with your hairstyles, color and other features that might change.
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Consider getting yourself an agent. Agents are very beneficial in the acting business because they play middle man between the people who cast commercials and yourself. Agents have many contacts that allow them to tell you when they think you should apply for a certain gig. Although it is possible to success in this business without an agent, a good agency can help speed things along considerably.
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Research casting calls for commercials in your area. When a commercial is being made, the producers will put out a casting call, which is basically a "now hiring" advertisement for actors. Casting calls will often describe the exact person the commercial requires. If you meet those requirements, set up an interview or just show up at the designated time.
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Show up for your audition on time, in character, equipped with your resume and headshot. Like any job, it is important to be punctual and show up with the required documents. Remain calm throughout the audition process and try to let your true personality show through. Consider the role you are auditioning for and dress or act the part.
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Be persistent until you get hired to film a commercial. Rome wasn't built in a day, and your career as a commercial actor will also take a lot of time to establish. The acting business is all about networking and gaining experience. The more auditions you attend and the more people you meet make your chances of getting hired that much better. Eventually, when you have a few commercials under your belt, your resume will be more promising to possible employers.
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References
- Photo Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
