You will certainly hear that often in commercial castings but it is also an unspoken expectation of TV and Film castings. “But I’m an actor, this is an acting gig …how do I not act?”, you ask. Good question. An even more intriguing question is; “How do I be my self, and be this character also?”

My favorite quote regarding this “be your self” concept comes from the late comedian, Bill Hicks, when speaking of the art of stand-up comedy, he taught;
“If you can be your self, you have the Law of Supply and Demand covered …for no one else knows how to be you.”

Often, actors will look for bold choices in their auditions in an effort to bring something “unique” or “different” to the role they’re playing. Unfortunately, bold choices will often lead the actor to act, or as I like to say, “aackt”. One thing actors may not be aware of is that the most unique and interesting attribute they can bring to the role is themselves. When making “bold” choices, consider what you own within your self and merge it with the character and the character’s situation. In reality, every choice you make starts with you and your point of view.

The actor is not going to be very objective in selecting the right footage for their reel, therefore, should let an acting coach, casting director, director or even their agent look at the footage and decide wshat is acceptable for them to use. I’ve seen a lot of reels posted on this site, youtube and other sites that were simply awful. What they may not know is, those who do the hiring will make a judgement of their abilities right then and there. If the acting is good, they may be called in for an audition, but if the acting or quality of the reel is really bad, they won’t call them in. They may even remember NEVER to call them in.

YOU need to make sure what you’re putting “out there” really showcases your work! Bad reel can kill your chances!

Demo reels are used primarily for seeking agent representation and sometimes directors may request to see your reel, but seldom is that the case. But I would never recommend pushing your demo on anyone who doesn’t request it.

The general rules:
1. It has to look like you. That means you have to keep your headshot updated. If you change your appearance frequently, then you should have headshot for every look. Nothing is more irritating to a casting director than to see an actor who looks completely different than their headshot. This can cost you a call-back, if not the job.

2. You should have at least 3 contrasting options. I’ll explain more further down. If you have a few options, you can always include thumbnail shots on your resume. I usually place them on the left margin of resume page. But you don’t <i>have to</i> do this. If you change your hair styles, have a look with a beard and one without, or want to include modeling shots, then this would be a good thing to do.

3. It must capture the true you. Don’t go over the top with expressions. Don’t “pose”. Some photographers have their subjects pose in “cookie-cutter” poses that may make you look unatural or uncomfortable in your own skin.

I have terms for 3 different kinds of photos”

The “Safety” Shot:
The Safety shot is one that has minimal activity in the background which draws all attention to you. This is a shot that looks like you and is usually a friendly aspect of you. Commercial shots are usually “Safety” shots. I label them such because there have been times when I don’t know what headshot to use for an audition, so I go with what is “Safe”.

The “Essence” Shot
The Essence shot is a picture in which the background provides contextual support of a particular essence of your casting. These type of shots are usually used for Theatrical submissions. These may not necessarily be a “head” shot, but rather waist up or full body capture. An essence shot is subtle and tells a bigger story. It often looks like a candid shot taken of you in character while working on-set. Again, IT’S SUBTLE and SUGGESTIVE to that casting essence.

The “Character” Shot
Character shots are seldom used. They were popular backin the 80′s when actors printed composite pages showing them in different outfits, uniforms or costumes. Unfortunately, they tend to be more about the wardrobe than the actor. They are like “essence” shots that go over-the-top. Unless they make a come-back (which I don’t see happening anytime soon) you should not even consider doing them. Of course, there are character models who may have to have a few around. I don’t currently have any examples of character shots on file. I think I stored them in my 80′s folder …somewhere.

These shots were done by one of my favorite local photographers, Meg Reul. <a href=”http://www.megreul.com”>www.megreul.com</a>

I am a veteran actor, audition coach, and casting director. I’m also a Career Coach and Certified Behavioral Counselor specializing in the Creative Process. Feel free to ask questions or give feedback to the blogs.