Breaking into the film industry without experience might feel like an uphill battle, but it’s entirely possible with the right strategy, persistence, and passion. Many successful actors started out just like you—with no experience and a dream. Here’s how you can get film acting jobs with no experience!

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9

STEPS

• Local Acting Schools: Sign up for acting classes. The best way to find these are to first network with the right groups so you can get the best recommendations. Do a Facebook and Google search for dedicated groups relating to actors and filmmakers in your area. You will quickly learn who is who and what people are saying about them. Focus on courses that offer on-camera training to get comfortable performing in front of a camera. Theater performing is a different style of acting.

I also recommend taking the Biz of Acting Master Course. This is an comprehensive online course that is going to set you up the right way and give you vital information and resources about the business of acting. The film industry is a very fast-paced business, and you’ll want to know as much as you can so you can be ready for the big projects and know how to conduct yourself as a professional from the beginning. Learning the casting protocols and film etiquette is going to set you apart from many others. Professionalism and a great attitude is going to help you get noticed by the right people.

• Workshops: Attend weekend or intensive workshops that focus on audition techniques, scene study, or acting technique—skills you’ll need when auditioning for film roles. Many of the casting websites such as Casting Networks, Backstage and All Casting offer helpful webinars and articles about the entertainment industry.

Build a Portfolio: Headshots, Resume and Reel

To land acting jobs, you’ll need a professional portfolio to showcase yourself to casting directors. Getting your headshot right is important.

• Headshots: Invest in a professional headshot that reflects your natural look and personality. Most online casting platforms will allow you to add 2 professional headshots. I suggest one being a commercial look (commercial and industrial), and the other for theatrical (film & episodic). Having a professional photographer do your headshots is going to show and elevate your level of professionalism as an actor.

And from the perspective of an actor here is Audrey Hope giving you tips on how to have a great acting headshot:

Reel: If you don’t have any film work yet, you can create a demo reel by recording yourself performing monologues or scenes from popular films. Make sure the footage is high-quality and shows your range. You can also create a personality reel. A personality reel showcases your personality and all the fun and interesting aspects of you.

Here is a sample of a personality reel from Frances Fox. Notice the topics she speaks on, the short cuts and how she is framed – close ups and medium shots. You can see and hear her clearly. There is no long or fancy intro. She introduces herself and goes straight into it. Casting directors love it when you can get straight into the ‘meat and potatoes.’

• Student Films: Film students often need actors for their projects. These are great opportunities to gain on-set experience and start building your reel. Some colleges and universities that have a film department, may have a talent database where you can submit a self-tape or come in for their open-calls once or twice a year.
• Independent Films: Indie filmmakers are often looking for new talent and are more likely to cast beginners. Look for casting calls in your area or online for indie film projects. Again, you can search your local Facebook groups to find these.
• Short Films: Short films can be another excellent way to gain experience quickly. These smaller projects often require a shorter time commitment and can help you get comfortable with the camera.

• Backstage: One of the most popular platforms for actors, Backstage lists casting calls for everything from student films to major feature films.
• Actors Access: Another platform where you can find auditions for film, television, and commercials.
• Casting Networks: This platform allows actors to submit for film and TV roles. They also provide tools for creating your profile, uploading your headshots, and adding a demo reel.
• AllCasting: You will find many types of film, commercials, promotional, brand anthems, and corporate videos. They also offer informational webinars and other resources for actors

• Attend Local Film Festivals: Film festivals are filled with filmmakers, producers, and actors. These events provide great networking opportunities and give you a chance to see indie films that may be casting in the future.
• Acting Communities: Join acting communities or clubs, both online and in-person. Platforms like Reddit have acting subreddits where you can get advice, share your journey, and even hear about upcoming auditions.
• Work on Set: Even if it’s behind the scenes, working on a film set can help you learn the industry and meet people. Volunteering as a production assistant or an extra can give you valuable insight into how things operate on set.

You will need some basic equipment to do this. Test your set-up and keep practicing and watch your self-tape before you submit it. By observing how you look and noticing any mannerisms you are doing on camera will help you to fix them and refine. Even if you don’t book a job immediately, each self-tape is an opportunity to improve, get experience and make an impression on casting directors.

• Prepare Well: Research the film and role beforehand, and be well prepared for your self-tape. Practice your lines, give a couple of takes until you feel you have the best take and then submit to the casting director.
• Stay Positive: Rejections are a natural part of the acting journey. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get the role—use it as motivation to improve and keep trying.

• Background Work: Sign up with extras casting agencies, and look for background work in films or TV shows. This can help you get your foot in the door and see how a professional set operates. The casting platforms mentioned above also post notices for background (Extra) Talent.