How to Become an American Actress

Becoming an American actress requires dedication and talent.

Becoming an American actress takes more than simply talent. This career choice requires research, training and years of dedication, patience and perseverance in order to succeed. Acting is a highly competitive field, thus to find success an actress must constantly undergo training and attend networking events to enhance the likelihood of booking a gig.

Things You'll Need

• Photo shoot outfits
• Headshot
• Resume
• Demo reel (if available)
• Cover letter

Instructions

1. Enroll in acting classes in your city. Acting classes teach actors how to approach a script, develop characters, audition, and how to perform for the camera or stage. The type of acting class you enroll in should be determined by the type of acting you wish to perform. Film and television actresses should enroll in classes that focus on acting for the camera while stage actresses should take classes developed to teach theater acting skills. Every acting class should consist of character development, script analysis, cold reading techniques and audition tips. You can find acting classes in your area by reviewing your local business directory or by contacting local theater organizations and asking for referrals.

2. Contact a local photographer to create acting headshots. Headshots are black-and-white or color photographs showcasing your face from the shoulders-up. Headshots are required to submit your information to talent agencies as well as to go on film, TV and stage auditions. Headshot Photographer Match offers a state-by-state directory of professional photographers.

3. Schedule a photo shoot with a photographer. Upon your initial contact, inform the photographer of your goal (becoming a film, TV or stage actress). Take note the more experience a photographer has the higher the shoot rate will be. If you do not want to do your own makeup, inquire if the photographer offers makeup artistry.

4. Gather at least five different outfits for the photo shoot. Headshot makeup should be light and natural. Do not use dark colors on your eyes or lips. The goal of a headshot is to provide a natural looking image so agents and casting directors can view an accurate depiction of your face. Arrive at the photo shoot location at least 15-to-20 minutes prior to the scheduled shoot time. Discuss the different shots to be taken with the photographer.

5. Review the photo shoot prints. Select an image that best showcases your eyes and smile. After selecting the best image, contact a photography reproduction service in your area to make copies of your headshot. Headshots measure 8-by-10-inches and are printed on glossy or matte finished paper with your name located at the bottom of image. If you cannot locate a reproduction service in your area you may order headshots from long-distance providers, such as Reproductions East/West, Comp Card Media or Photo Scan Online.

6. Contact talent agencies within 100 miles of your home. Talent Agency Match and the Association of Talent Agents offer a state-by-state directory of talent agencies. During the initial contact, inquire about the submission requirements for actresses. Most talent agencies require a headshot, resume and a demo reel of your acting experience (if applicable).

7. Compile your resume by listing your acting credits in chronological order. If you do not have professional acting experience, write a cover letter explaining your level of acting training. Print copies of your resume and trim them down to 8-by-10-inches and glue or staple the resume to the back of your headshot.

8. Submit your headshot, resume, cover letter and any additional materials to talent agencies within your region. Upon review, a talent agency will contact you if they are interested in doing an interview. During the interview you may be required to perform a scene or a prepared monologue. Details regarding interview preparation will be given when the agency contacts you. After the interview, the agency will either decline to represent you or offer an exclusive or non-exclusive contract. Exclusive contracts prohibit you from obtaining representation from another agency while non-exclusive means you can seek out other representation if desired.

9. Audition for film and television projects. Working with a talent agency will ensure you're considered for union work, which is required to join the Screen Actors Guild (SAG). To join SAG an actress must work in a union project as a principal, or leading, character. After filming is complete, contact your local SAG office and provide the following information: name, social security number, production name, salary amount and dates worked. After being accepted into SAG you must pay a one-time initiation fee ($2,277) and a yearly due of $116 (as of 2010). Once a SAG member, you can only work for union projects, but this guarantees health insurance, set pay and workplace protection.

Tips & Warnings

• If you do not live near a talent agency, audition for local theater productions to enhance your resume before considering moving to a larger market.

• Never sign with a talent agency that requires a fee in order to be given a contract. Legitimate talent agencies only make money from work booked through their efforts.

References

• Headshot Photographer Match: How to Find a Good Headshot Photographer
• Talent Agency Match: Find a Talent Agent
• Association of Talent Agents
• Screen Actors Guild: Steps to Join

Resources

• Reproductions
• Photo Scan Online
• Comp Card Media: Headshots
• Screen Actors Guild: Divisions & Branches