Inspired our GlossBosses? Learn about careers in Tv and Film
Actress
One of the most well known careers in showbiz is being the star of the show.
Actresses don't need to have formal education but it can help. It doesn't matter if you go to university to get a degree in acting or take a few acting classes, just get some experience and start your reel.
Shoot your Reel
A reel is a short video clip of 1-2 minutes of your best work. As a beginner, you're reel doesn't have to be perfect, it's just a way to show case your work. Acting in school plays or film students' projects are a great place to start to get experience. You can self-tape your reel, write and film your own scenes, use other audition tapes.
You don't need to include footage from your acting classes or on-stage performance, you want your reel to be high quality footage of yourself. You don't need to introduce yourself on camera, just put your name and contact info on the screen.
Your reel should include:
Slate; your slate is written on screen (name, contact information, your website and headshot) *put this first*
Clips; 4-5 clips of your best work (about 20-30 seconds each)
Great lighting; (best to do in front of a window, but not with the window in the shot)
Great sound; (avoid echoey sounds by placing a rug or blanket in the room to absorb sound or simply buy a cheap microphone to use)
Get your Headshots
Next step is to get some headshots. Professional headshots are very expensive, but don't worry and don't break the bank to get the shots. Instead, do your headshots yourself! The key to a great headshot is to be you! Natural makeup is a must and avoid hats and sunglasses. Give the camera your best smile and try different angles. The best headshots are taken from the shoulders up, but don't be afraid to try different angles. The main thing is the ability to see your face clearly.
A great headshot has:
Color; you don't need an black and white photograph color is great
Name; (for printed headshots; digital headshots usually don't need one)
Size; 8x10 Size for digital you can save in .jpeg .jpg or .png with a resolution of at least 300dpi
Solid colors; avoid wearing any distracting patterns
Eyes; whatever angle you chose make sure, you can see your beautiful eyes
Find an Agent
Once you have your reel and headshots taken, you're ready to look for an agent. Admittedly, this is probably the hardest part but that doesn't mean it is impossible (especially for a GlossBoss💋). Agents are usually very busy and get dozens of emails a day. Make sure you write a catchy headline that makes them want to open your email! Research acting agencies and send your email with your reel, headshot (with your resume/experience attached).
Your Email should include:
Catchy subject line; your subject should include your age range, ethnicity, something unique about you and the representation that you are seeking. (30’s Latina Improv Trained Non-union Actress Seeking Commercial) a great example from this Reddit thread
Cover Letter; this letter can be written as the email and should be short and concise
Headshot and resume; Attach only one of your best headshots and
Reel; your reel should be for the specific acting type your reaching out to the agent for you can show them your range later. Don't tell them you're a Marilyn Monroe type...Are you a drama actress? Comedic Actress? Attach a reel that showcases your strength.
Good luck GlossBoss! It is never too late to start chasing your dreams, remember, if she can do it you can too! 💋
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