I notice a constant stream of ads for a prime time show on television asking for actors to submit for principal roles and background. Someone I know of (starting out in this industry) has submitted countless times this year. And she never got called in, not even for background! So, I've been wondering why haven't they called her yet? She fits the role perfectly! So I asked her to send me the head shot, resume and full length picture that she sent to the agency. She sent it immediately!
I see why they haven't called her. This agency is a pro in casting and they will not give her a call due to what she sent was not a head shot and her resume was too hard for them to read, it was in sentences (will talk about resume format another day).
What needs to be done is we need to make it easy for the casting directors and associates. They work so hard... They go through SO, SO many head shots and resumes that they do not have the time to try to picture you in the role. If the role asks for a nurse from the 1800's don't send in a shot of yourself looking like a biker in the 80's. Have some common sense to fit that description to the best of your knowledge. You are only wasting there time and having hopeful ideas of being cast. I'm not suggesting to spend a boat load of money in costume but look the part best as you can.
Put effort and thought into what you are submitting for. My last blog was on getting a professional head shot and I really mean it. YOU NEED A PROFESSIONAL HEAD SHOT! If you can't afford one just yet, then save up money before you submit. Really think about whether you really want to work as a professional actor. Think hard... Because you'll need to invest time and money in your new business. Every business needs presentable tools to promote their business. You are selling yourself and your talents. You must treat your career as a business.
Now on the flip side of this story. Someone I know had submitted for a role she really wanted and knows she can play the role very well. The agency wanted to see a picture of her in elegance wardrobe. She said she didn't have one. That was the end of that conversation! This young lady was not pleased that casting couldn't just picture her in costume. They wouldn't even let her come in for an audition unless she took a picture in elegance wardrobe for them to review.
I informed her that casting does not have time for picturing you in elegance nor will casting try to convince their client that you could look the part. They really need to see it. So she got a friend to take her picture in elegance wardrobe and she sent the picture into the agency and she immediately got invited to audition for this role. And this young lady is so excited! Now, you see it really works! Do the right thing and help out casting and show them you fit the role don't make them guess because they simply won't! And take a guess who looses out?
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