Becoming an Actor: 4 Tips to Help You Begin Your Acting Career

Kendon Tillis, Omar Cook, Duane Finley, Maurice Hardwick, Demetre Davis, Anthony Russell, and Adonis Armstrong on set of movie LA Undercover 2.

By: Omar Cook

Beginning your acting career can be an exciting yet daunting journey. While the entertainment industry offers endless opportunities, navigating the path to success requires careful and strategic planning.

Of course we all want to be the next biggest star, Oscar winner, and booking all of the top roles, but we have to start from somewhere. Here are four essential tips to help you begin your acting career on the right foot!

1. Enroll in Acting Classes

One of the first steps to beginning your acting career is by developing your skills through professional acting classes. These classes provide invaluable opportunities to gain practical experience, refine your talent, and build a strong foundation in acting techniques. Whether you're a complete novice or have some experience in the field, acting classes offer a supportive environment where you can learn from seasoned instructors and fellow aspiring actors. By immersing yourself in acting classes, you'll not only develop your craft but also network with industry professionals and discover new opportunities for growth.

To begin your journey with acting classes, check out 247LC Film Academy.

2. Invest in Professional Headshots

Acting is a competitive environment, and, first impressions matter. Professional headshots serve as your calling card in the industry, showcasing your unique look and personality to casting directors and talent agents. Investing in high-quality headshots is essential to making a memorable impression and increasing your chances of landing auditions. When choosing a photographer, choose someone with notable industry experience in capturing headshots for actors and performers. Ensure that your headshots accurately represent your age range, casting type, and potential roles, as you will need headshots to match certain character types.

3. Build a Professional Actor Reel

A video reel is a powerful tool for actors to showcase their talent and versatility to casting directors and agents. If you don't have professional reel footage yet, you can create your own by filming yourself performing 2-3 monologues or scenes. Use a high-quality camera, such as an iPhone, and make sure that you have good lighting and sound quality. Choose monologues or scenes that showcase your acting range and personality. Once you have your footage, edit it together with the most exciting scenes first, and include clips that showcase your talent. A great video reel can significantly increase your chances of receiving auditions and landing roles. As you begin to book more projects, update your video reel to reflect your current talent.

Omar Cook | Acting Demo Reel (2022)

4. Create a Profile on Casting Networks

In today's entertainment industry, casting networks have become the primary tools for actors seeking auditions and casting opportunities. Platforms like Backstage, Casting Networks, Actors Access, and central casting allow actors to create online profiles, upload headshots and resumes, and apply for auditions across various projects. By creating a profile on casting networks, you gain access to a vast network of casting calls, ranging from film and television productions, short films, to commercials and theater gigs. Be sure to regularly update your profile with recent headshots, credits, and demo reels to showcase your skills and experience effectively. Actors should make time at least twice a day to self submit to casting networks to begin receiving auditions.

Starting your acting career requires dedication, perseverance, and hustle. By enrolling in acting classes, investing in professional headshots and a reel, and creating profiles on casting networks, you'll set yourself up for success and take significant strides toward achieving your dreams in the world of acting. Acting is a journey and not an overnight process. Stay diligent to your goals, train your talents in class, and persevere through the up and down moments that come with working in a highly competitive industry.

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247LC Film Academy Launches in Los Angeles Aiming to Cultivate Next Generation of Talent

Filmmaker Adonis Armstrong Replays Footage on Set of LA Undercover 2

Credit: Josh Martin

LOS ANGELES, February 29, 2024 - 247 Live Culture Enterprises is proud to launch 247LC Film Academy, a dynamic performing arts institution founded by award-winning filmmakers and actors Omar Cook, Adonis Armstrong, and Phedora Evermoore. With a commitment to serving Los Angeles and the global community, the academy aims to nurture aspiring actors, filmmakers, and screenwriters, while also cultivating visionary leaders who will shape the future of the entertainment industry.

As the entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles is the perfect setting for 247LC Film Academy's mission to empower individuals with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to succeed in the competitive landscape of entertainment. Whether students dream of acting in iconic roles, directing classic films, or writing world changing scripts, our academy provides a supportive and innovative environment to help them turn their aspirations into reality.

“Our vision for 247LC Film Academy is to create a platform where true creativity flourishes, real talent thrives, and dreams become reality," said Omar Cook, Co-Founder of 247LC Film Academy. "We believe in the power of storytelling to inspire, educate, and transform lives, and it is our mission to equip the next generation of entertainment industry leaders with the tools they need to make a meaningful impact on the world stage."

Apply Now to 247LC Film Academy

Led by a team of industry professionals with a track record of success, including numerous awards and accolades, 247LC Film Academy offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of acting, filmmaking, and screenwriting. From acting techniques and script development to directing, cinematography, and post-production, our courses are designed to provide students with a well-rounded education and practical skills they can apply in the real world.

In addition to technical skills, 247LC Film Academy places a strong emphasis on fostering creativity, critical thinking, and leadership qualities. Through hands-on projects, collaborative learning experiences, and mentorship opportunities, students will develop the confidence, resilience, and vision to become industry trailblazers and cultural influencers.

"We are committed to creating an inclusive learning environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel welcome, valued, and empowered to share their unique perspectives and stories” said Adonis Armstrong, Co-Founder of 247LC Film Academy.

As part of its commitment to accessibility and community engagement, 247LC Film Academy offers both in-person and online classes, allowing students to pursue their passion for acting and filmmaking regardless of their location or schedule. Whether attending classes in person in Los Angeles or participating in virtual workshops from anywhere in the world, students will benefit from personalized instruction, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

"This academy has a perfect blend of a hands-on experience and mentorship. Making this place the best place for aspiring filmmakers to flourish and grow creatively. ," said Phedora Evermoore, Co-Founder of 247LC Film Academy.

Applications are now open as classes will begin on March 11. For more information on class schedules and curriculum, visit www.247liveculture.com/247lcfilmacademy.

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