So, you have an appointment for an audition. Congratulations! Now's the time you want to impress the casting director. One way to do that is to show up on time for the appointment. In fact be a little early. Somewhere between 5-15 minutes early is usually good.
But here's the catch. Don't be too early! There might be limited seating or other reasons why this might be inconvenient to the casting people. So, if you find yourself a half hour early, try going for a walk. Get rid of some of your nerves and come back in 15 minutes.
The Headshot. It's your calling card to casting directors and production companies. It's the photo that they'll associate with you, the actor. In other words, your headshot's job is to represent you... which will hopefully land you the role you're looking for!
What’s the best kind of headshot? First and foremost, your headshot should look like YOU. This means is that you need to have a current photo.
So, if you dramatically alter something about your appearance (e.g. you dye your hair), you really should change your headshot, too. If you don't, this can be very confusing for the casting people. Remember, we rely on headshots to help us sort through a lot actors. This cannot be stressed enough, so let us say one more time. Be sure that your headshot looks like... you!
What is your age range when it comes to acting?
While some actors can be 30 years old and realistically play a high school student, others can not. When you are submitting for a role, be realistic about your age range. If you're not sure what your age range is, ask your family and friends. Better yet, ask strangers: "How old do you think I am?" They might give you a more realistic answer. (And remember, the style of clothes can make a difference.)
Casting directors have to sift through hundreds of headshots. If they put an age range in a casting call, then please pay attention. Can you realistically play a 17-year-old? A 38-year-old? A 62-year-old? The photo on your headshot is very important here. If you're vying for the role of, let's say, the 17-year-old teen, but your headshot makes you look like corporate executive, chances are you won't even make the Casting Director's list of possibilities.
The key here is, don't just tell them you can play a certain age. Show it with your headshot!
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