by Marcy Burlock

Created on: May 15, 2009

So you want to be an actor? Not just any actor, a rich famous actor; or at least one who makes money at doing what he/she loves. You are certainly not alone in this and you will find many obstacles in your way. Not the least of which is competition; but there are plenty of other pitfalls you really have to look out for if you truly wish to make a living at performing.

Let's see, you can look at this like you are ticking off check marks.. First, do you have talent? Of course most of us would say we are the best thing since (insert favourite actor here) and if they can do it, so can I! But can you really? Have you gotten an honest opinion about your acting? Your skills? Your technique? It might be time to to take a class or course to really learn the craft and it is a craft. At the very least, get an honest, unbiased opinion about yourself. No, family will rarely ever tell you anything negative about your performance; at least not most of them.

Which brings me to the second check, do you have training? Yes, I said training. Now, not all actors do have schooling in their field, but they do learn from other actors, producers and directors exactly what is expected of them. It's not as easy as it looks to create a completely believable character and keep in character for the entire play, or movie or even scene you are in. There are some actors who tend to lose accents the character is supposed to have halfway through a scene, leaving the audience to wonder, hey I thought that guy was British?

Next on the list is a good picture of yourself. Now you don't need a portfolio as an actor like if you were a model, but a good headshot is always a smart thing. Yes the agent ( should you be lucky enough to find one) can take a photo of you to start with, but they are not professional and should be upgraded to a sleek, professional one; preferably not done by your father.

As Professional photographers are usually not cheap, shop around for one and take a look at their other work before agreeing to go with them. You don't want the first thing casting directors to see of you turn them off to working with you. They do see the picture first as the agent sends them a copy once the casting director gives the agent the type of actor they are looking for.

Which brings me to an agent. Finding one is not an easy feat by a long shot. There are many many scam artists out there and you have to be on the lookout for them. Easy ways to spot agents not on the up and up are:

1. Asking

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