So, You Wanna Be a Star? A Guide to Getting Acting Jobs in LA
Let’s talk turkey. Or, rather, let's talk about landing acting gigs in the city of dreams, Los Angeles. It’s a place where everyone wants to be a star, and everyone seems to be related to someone who is. If you’re thinking about diving headfirst into this glamorous pool of rejection, here's a quick dip into the reality.
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| How To Get Acting Jobs In Los Angeles |
The Land of Milk and Honey (or So They Say)
LA is a city that runs on caffeine, dreams, and the promise of endless possibilities. It’s where aspiring actors trade their sleep for headshots and their rent money for acting classes. But hey, who needs sleep and a roof over your head when you could be the next Meryl Streep, right?
QuickTip: Focus on one line if it feels important.
Step 1: Develop a Skin as Thick as a Rhino
Before you even think about auditioning, you need to cultivate a skin that's tougher than a Hollywood stuntman. Rejection is going to be your middle name. You'll be told you're too tall, too short, too fat, too skinny, too anything. It's a numbers game, and you've got to be prepared to hear "no" more times than you can count.
QuickTip: Break reading into digestible chunks.
Step 2: Network Like Crazy
Networking in LA is like playing six degrees of Kevin Bacon, but with more awkward small talk. Go to industry events, parties, and even the grocery store with your headshot in hand. You never know who you might meet. Just remember, everyone in LA is trying to make it, so don't be that person.
Tip: Review key points when done.
Step 3: Learn to Love Self-Tapes
If you thought auditioning in person was tough, wait till you try self-taping. You'll become an expert in lighting, sound, and camera angles. And don’t forget the classic: “Can you send that again, but this time, can you be sadder?”
QuickTip: Pay attention to first and last sentences.
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Step 4: Develop Other Skills (Besides Acting)
While acting is obviously important, it helps to have a backup plan. Waiting tables, driving for Uber, or becoming a professional dog walker are all popular choices among struggling actors. Just remember, don’t let your day job overshadow your dreams of stardom.
Step 5: Embrace the Hustle
LA is all about hustle. You've got to be constantly auditioning, networking, and taking classes. It's exhausting, but it's also exhilarating. Just remember to take breaks and enjoy the ride. After all, even the biggest stars had to start somewhere.
How to... Questions
- How to find an agent? Build a strong acting reel, network relentlessly, and be prepared to pay a commission.
- How to prepare for an audition? Research the role, practice your lines, and focus on bringing your unique perspective to the character.
- How to build a strong acting resume? Start by taking acting classes, performing in local theater productions, and creating a professional-looking headshot and resume.
- How to handle rejection? Remember that rejection is part of the business, focus on your next audition, and build a strong support system.
- How to stay motivated? Set achievable goals, visualize your success, and surround yourself with positive and supportive people.
Remember, becoming an actor in LA is a marathon, not a sprint. It's going to be tough, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. So keep your head up, your dreams big, and your self-tapes short. Good luck!
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