Photo and Resume Information
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I have been receiving some inquiries regarding what type of photos and resumes to send to a casting director or agent. Here is a sample of a professional actors resume and photo. The photo should not be a school photo, glamor shot, or a snapshot taken by a non-professional photographer. The photo should be 8" X 10" in size, the resume should be cut to the exact same size and stapled back to back on the photo. When you flip the photo over, the resume should be viewable on the other side. Do NOT paper clip the resume, but staple it on all four corners. Your name and any union affiliations should be printed on the bottom of the photo, either on the border or on the corner of the photo itself. That way if by some chance the photo does become detached from the resume, the casting director can match them up again. The photo should be color and professionally taken. Just remember that your photo is your calling card. It should represent the "real" you, the way you look in everyday life. If your hair is long in the photo, then your hair should be long when you walk in the casting office. If your skin is fair, then you should not come to the casting office with a dark tan. Always keep your photos up-to-date according to your look.
Also, there is no such thing as an "application" to fill out for acting jobs. Just the 8X10 photo and resume.
The photo can be taken either horizontal or vertical.
Sample Headshots:
Actress Kirsten Feher
Actress Cheyenne Logan
This is child actor Marcus Calderon, and he landed a national Disneyland commercial with this photo.
Sample Resume:
Click Here for a sample Beginners Resume.
One last note about your photos:
If you can't afford to pay a professional photographer to take your photos right now, you can try something else. If there is a school nearby that has a photography department, go there and see if you can do "testing". Testing is when you exchange your time posing for a photography student in exchange for them taking some theatrical headshots and giving you some prints.
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Include a very brief cover letter with your submission, stating that you are interested in auditioning for an acting role, or that you are seeking representation by an agent.
The Hannah Montana Movie, High School Musical 3 Update
11/11/2007
Bob Iger, Disney's chief executive, on Thursday warned that its ABC television business could be hit by a prolonged Hollywood writers' strike but said its film studio would be unlikely to feel any effect until 2009. This means that High School Musical 3, The Hannah Montana Movie, Cheetah Girls 3, and Dadnapped production will procceed as scheduled. Therefore, talent may continue to submit 8X10 photos and resumes' for these films.
Hollywood screenwriters have spent this past week picketing studios and TV networks after failing to agree a new pay deal. The writers want a share of money generated by the streaming of their work on the internet. But the studios and networks have refused to budge, saying free internet streaming is for promotional purposes only and should not be covered in the pay deal.
Performers' Unions
SAG - Screen Actors Guild
Screen Actors Guild is the nation's largest labor union representing working actors. Established in 1933, SAG has a rich history in the American labor movement, from standing up to studios to break long-term engagement contracts in the 1940s to fighting for artists' rights amid the digital revolution sweeping the entertainment industry in the 21st century. With 20 branches nationwide, SAG represents nearly 120,000 working actors in film, television, industrials, commercials, video games, music videos and other new media. The Guild exists to enhance actors' working conditions, compensation and benefits and to be a powerful, unified voice on behalf of artists' rights. Headquartered in Los Angeles, SAG is a proud affiliate of the AFL-CIO. The Screen Actors Guild is associated with the Associated Actors and Artists of America (AAAA), which is the primary association of performer's unions in the United States. The AAAA is affiliated with the AFL-CIO. SAG claims exclusive jurisdiction over motion picture performances, and shares jurisdiction of radio, television, Internet, and other new media with its sister union AFTRA.
How To Join SAG
A performer becomes eligible for Screen Actors Guild membership under one of the following two conditions: proof of SAG employment or employment under an affiliated performers’ union.
1. Proof of Employment
a. Principal Performer Employment - Performers may join SAG upon proof of employment. Employment must be in a principal or speaking role in a SAG film, videotape, television program or commercial. Proof of such employment may be in the form of a signed contract, or original pay stubs. The document proving employment must provide the following information:
— applicant’s name
— applicant’s Social Security number
— name of the production or name of the commercial (product name)
— the salary paid (in dollar amount)
— the specific date(s) worked.
b. Background Actors may join SAG upon proof of employment as a SAG–covered background player at full SAG rates and conditions for a MINIMUM of three work days subsequent to March 25, 1990. Employment must be by a company signed to a SAG Agreement under which the Producer is required to cover background actors. Proof of employment must be in the form of original paystubs or a payroll printout faxed from the payroll house. Such documents must provide the same information (name, Social Security number, etc.) as listed above.
2. Employment Under an Affiliated Performers' Union
Performers may join SAG if the applicant is a paid-up member of an affiliated performers' union (ACTRA, AEA, AFTRA, AGMA or AGVA) for a period of one year and has worked and been paid for at least once as a principal performer in that union’s jurisdiction.
To join SAG, a performer must pay an initiation fee of $2,277, plus the first semi-annual basic dues payment of $58. Thus, the total fee to join is $2,335.
AFTRA - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists
The American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA) is a national labor union representing over 70,000 performers. This was my first union. The first union that a person joins becomes your "Parent Union". Unlike the other performers' unions, anyone can walk in off the street and join AFTRA. This union is newcomers' and inexperienced actors best bet to become eligible to join the other unions. You still must obtain a speaking or "principal" role within AFTRA's jurisdiction at some point in order to join SAG or the other unions, but at least you can "buy" the membership without prior experience. AFTRA has jurisdiction over Soaps, many Sitcoms, news/sports/weather broadcasts, radio, sound recordings, talk shows, variety shows, documentaries, game shows, and various multimedia broadcasts. Once you obtain a principal role (speaking, stunts, dancing or singing), then you are "eligible" to join the other unions. But only after you have been a paid-up member of AFTRA for one year.
New members must complete an application and pay a one-time initiation fee and dues for the current dues period. The initiation fee is $1,300 and, as of November 1, 2007, minimum dues are $63.90.
AEA - Actors' Equity Association ("AEA" or "Equity"), founded in 1913, is the labor union that represents more than 45,000 Theatre Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. Equity negotiates wages and working conditions and provides a wide range of benefits, including health and pension plans, for its members. Actors' Equity is a member of the AFL-CIO, and is affiliated with FIA, an international organization of performing arts unions.
How To Join AEA
You may join the Association by virtue of employment under an Equity contract. Applications for joining Equity are only valid during the term of the contract. Certain contract types also have a length-of-employment requirement before a membership application becomes valid; the Membership Department will advise you at the time of joining.
Membership is also available by virtue of prior membership in a performing arts sister union (ACTRA, SAG, AFTRA, AGMA or AGVA).
* Applicants must be members of a sister union for at least one year
* Must currently be members in good standing of their parent union
* Must have worked as a performer under the union's jurisdiction on a principal or
"under-five" contract or at least three days of extra ("background") work
With your application, you must include a written statement from your parent union stating that you meet the requirements above along with a least $400 towards your Initiation Fee.
Equity Membership Candidate Program
This program permits actors and stage managers-in-training to credit theatrical work in an Equity theatre towards eventual membership in Equity. After securing a position at a participating theatre, you may register as a candidate. The $100 registration fee will be credited against any future Initiation Fee when you become eligible for membership. Eligibility under this program requires a total of 50 weeks of EMC work at participating theatres.
If you are joining Equity through the EMC Program, at least a $400 initial payment is due with your application.
All membership privileges, including the right to vote, attend meetings and Equity-only auditions, commence upon the initial payment of $400 towards the fee (currently $1100) within six months of the filing of your application.
AGMA - American Guild of Musical Artists, the labor union that represents opera and concert singers, production personnel and dancers at principal opera, concert and dance companies throughout the United States.
You may join the AGMA by virtue of employment under an AGMA contract. Membership is also available by virtue of prior membership in a performing arts sister union (ACTRA, AEA, AFTRA, SAG or AGVA).
AGMA has a one-time-only Initiation Fee of $500. This tax-deductible fee may be paid by credit card or by check. The total fee must be paid by the time your income from AGMA engagements reaches $2000, or three years from the date of your first AGMA contract – whichever comes first. Basic dues are $78 a year, paid in December for the next calendar year. Working dues are 2% of the member’s earnings up to a maximum of $2000 a year, and can be deducted automatically by the companies for which you work if you sign a check-off authorization. If you don’t authorize a check-off, it is your responsibility to make payments directly to AGMA.
ACTRA - Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists is a national organization of more than 21,000 professional performers working in the English-language recorded media in Canada. ACTRA represents artists working in feature films, TV, radio, digital media, corporate videos and commercials as dramatic actors, comedians, dancers, background performers, voice over specialists, singers, puppeteers, stunt performers - and more.
Membership in ACTRA is open to any performer who has enrolled in the Apprentice Membership Program and has attained six professional engagements under ACTRA jurisdiction, or has, in recognition of the barriers confronting the disabled and members of visible minorities, three professional engagements under ACTRA jurisdiction, or has membership in a sister organization (SAG, AEA, AFTRA, AGMA or AGVA).
In exceptional circumstances, persons who qualify according to the guidelines and interpreted by the ACTRA Branch/Local Union may be admitted upon presenting proof to the ACTRA Branch/Local Union.
If you hold at least one work permit (under ACTRA contract), you are eligible to become an Apprentice Member. This includes work permits for principal and acting roles as well as stunt but excludes work permits issued for background performing. There is a $75.00 initiation fee plus an annual fee of $75.00 that you would pay upon becoming an Apprentice Member.
AGVA - American Guild of Variety Artists is an entertainment union representing performers in variety entertainment, including circuses, Las Vegas showrooms and cabarets, comedy showcases, dance revues, magic shows, theme park shows, arena and auditorium extravaganzas, puppeteers, jugglers, etc.
You may join the AGMA by virtue of employment under an AGVA contract. Membership is also available by virtue of prior membership in a performing arts sister union (ACTRA, AEA, AFTRA, SAG or AGMA).
For more information, contact AGVA at 212-675-1003. Mailing address: American Guild of Variety Artists, 184 Fifth Ave., 6th floor, New York, NY 10010. (The union currently does not have a website.)
Dadnapped! Casting Information
*** Dadnapped Casting Has Been Completed ***
Production Company:
Disney Channel in association with
Salty Pictures, Inc.
4080 S West Temple
Salt Lake City UT 84107
Filming Location:
Salt Lake City and Magna, Utah
Starring:
Emily Osment - Melissa Hamilton
Denzel Whitaker - Sheldon
Moises Arias - Andre
George Newbern - Neal
David Henrie - Wheeze
Jennifer Stone - Debbie
Jonathan Keltz - Trip Zoome
Seth Packard - Sammy
Hunter Schone - Joe
Story:
"Dadnapped," finds 14-year-old Melissa with a bad case of sibling rivalry, only her competition is a fictional character in her father's best-selling novel about a teenage super spy. When her dad is abducted by a gang of obsessive fans Melissa is transformed into the superhero that her dad imagines in the best-selling novel he's written. Melissa is called upon to track him down, can she channel her inner super spy?
Camp Rock Casting Information
** Casting for "Camp Rock" has been completed **
The film will air on Disney Channel on June 20th, 2008. Details Here!
Executive Producer - Alan Sacks
Filming Location: Toronto, Canada
Toronto Film Studios
629 Eastern Avenue
Stage 9
Toronto ON M4M 1E4
Starring:
Alyson Stoner - Caitlyn
Anna Maria Perez de Tagle - Ella
Demi Lovato - Mitchie
Meaghan Jette Martin - Tess
Kevin Jonas - Himself
Nick Jonas - Himself
Joe Jonas - Himself
Story:
"Camp Rock," centers on a teen girl who desperately wants to spend her summer at a prestigious rock camp, but can only attend if she works in the kitchen as one of the cooks. When she's overheard singing - but not seen -- by a teen pop star at the camp, he is completely taken and sets out to find the girl behind the beautiful voice. But first she must confront her fears, step out of the kitchen and into the spotlight.
Vanessa Hudgens Photos
** Update 11-3-2007 **
Vanessa Hudgens has officially signed a contract with Disney Channel to star in High School Musical 3. She will also be receiving a substantial raise in pay for the third installment of the hit musical. This puts an end to the rumors that she has been let go by the Disney Channel.
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Vanessa Hudgens issued the following statement in regards to the nude photos that surfaced on the internet: "I want to apologize to my fans, whose support and trust means the world to me. I am embarrassed over this situation and regret having ever taken these photos. I am thankful for the support of my family and friends."
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The Disney Channel has issued a statement in regards to the nude photos of Vanessa Hudgens that were taken by Zac Efron. "The Disney Channel stands by Vanessa, and we hope she has learned a valuable lesson". The statement was issued by Patti McTeague from Disney Channel Public Relations.
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The Disney Channel denies a published report that Vanessa Hudgens will be dropped from the upcoming feature film "High School Musical 3." That movie is in development and negotiations with the stars are incomplete. Negotiations WILL continue with Vanessa Hudgens for the role of Gabriella in the upcoming production.
Beginner's Acting Resume
I am often asked about what to put on a resume when you have little or no experience. Well, we all have to start somewhere. When I first started acting, I only had some extra work that I had done. And I still landed an agent. Some people may say to lie. DO NOT lie! The business side of the entertainment industry is a tight knit community, and you will most likely be caught. You do not want to burn bridges in this business, especially when you are first starting out.
So here is a sample of what you should put down on a resume when you are starting out:
(NEVER list your home address or the school you attend if you are a minor for safety reasons)
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Date of Birth: 06/15/1998
Height: 4'11"
Weight: 92 lbs
Hair Color: Brown
Eye Color: Green
(your email address here)
Acting & Modeling Objectives:
Films
TV Shows
Commercials
Commercial Print
Experience:
Class Skits: Anne Frank-Mrs. & Mr. Van Dann.
Training:
High School Drama Club
Special Skills & Talents:
Singing
Dancing
Drawing
Sports & Hobbies:
Ballet, Soccer, Ice Skating, Basketball, Swimming, and Cheerleading. Like to hang out with friends, and volunteer for things to help people and animals.
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That's it! You see, if a casting director really REALLY likes your photo and your look, they will call you in. Regardless of experience, or if you are in the Screen Actors Guild or AFTRA.
Wizards of Waverly Place Casting Information
September 13, 2008
*** Only submit by mail only. No phone calls or personal drop-offs ***
See the post titled Headshot and Resume Information regarding how to submit for acting roles.
Lambert/McGee Casting
1040 N. Las Palmas
Bldg. 26, Room 202
Los Angeles CA 90038
Starring:
Jake T. Austin - Max Russo
David Henrie - Justin Russo
Selena Gomez - Alex Russo
Maria Canals - Theresa Russo
David DeLuise - Jerry Russo
Story
"Wizards of Waverly Place" focuses on the Russos. A typical family, which includes a mom, Theresa Russo; a dad, Jerry Russo; a son, Justin Russo; a daughter, Alex Russo; and another son, Max Russo. The kids and the family live normal lives but what their friends don't know is- they are wizards!
Disney/ABC "Calling All Dancers"
Email: carrieannvsbruno@yahoo.com
Submissions Due By: 09/29/07
Open Auditions: CALLING ALL DANCERS!!!!
SEPTEMBER AUDITIONS
“Dancing With The Stars” judges Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli will put their reputations on the line as they battle it out across the dance floor to create the ultimate dance group on a new ABC Primetime TV series.
Seeking ALL types of amateur dancers.
If you are 18 years of age or older come and show us what you’ve got!!!
Bring your family and friends along to cheer you on!!!
You may be asked to sing a few bars of your favorite song, a cappella. If you are not a singer do not be discouraged. If you are chosen, vocal training will be provided.
NASHVILLE, TN
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15
LOS ANGELES, CA
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22
NEW YORK, NY
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
PLEASE VISIT
www.myspace.com/carrieannvsbruno
FOR MORE INFO & UPDATES
Seeking ALL types of amateur dancers.
Cory In The House Casting Information
*** Only submit by mail only. No phone calls or personal drop-offs, or you WILL NOT be considered! ***
See the post titled Headshot and Resume Information regarding how to submit for acting roles.
Joey Paul
Cory In The House
Hollywood Center Studios
1040 North Las Palmas
Building 33 2nd Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90038.
Filming Location
Hollywood Center Studios
1040 North Las Palmas
Los Angeles, CA 90038.
Casting for guest and day player roles.
Starring:
Kyle Massey as Cory Baxter
Rondell Sheridan as Victor Baxter
Jason Dolley as Newt Livingston III
Madison Pettis as Sophie Martinez
Maiara Walsh as Meena Paroom
Jake Thomas as Jason Stickler
John D'Aquino as President Martinez
Lisa Arch as Samantha Stevens
Creators & Executive Producers:
Dennis Rinsler, Marc Warren
Based on Characters Created By:
Michael Poryes and Susan Sherman
Co-Executive Producer:
Patty Gary-Cox
Production Company:
It's a Laugh Productions
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Disney Channel has Talent Searches occasionally, such as this one last November:
http://apsc.disney.go.com/disneychannel/talentsearch/
People have been posting the following website, however it is NOT for Disney Channel auditions. It is ONLY for jobs at Disneyland, Walt Disney World Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Tokyo Disneyland, and Hong Kong Disneyland:
http://corporate.disney.go.com/auditions/
How To Get An Agent For Disney Channel And Other Shows
There are two types of talent agents, theatrical (television and film) and commercial (for television commercials). Being with the same agency for both is called being "signed across the board," but many actors prefer to have separate agents for different types of work, become some agencies can be better commercially, but not as good theatrically, or vice versa. Agents get information about auditions for roles, either directly from casting directors and producers calling them asking for client submissions, or from a service called "the breakdowns," a daily list of roles being cast, sent only to agents and managers. Agents work for you, but they only get 10% of what you make, so that means you need to do 90% of the work--especially when you are getting started. That means always be professional, be skilled in acting, network and let casting directors, producers and directors know about your work & upcoming performances by sending out postcards & invitations, know your "type", and make sure you and your agent have an understanding about what kinds of parts you will be submitted for.
The Strategy:
Do not randomly stop by agents offices unannounced, they do not accept personal drop-offs. Avoid calling the office for now. Simply send in your 8" X 10" color photo & resume, along with a brief cover letter. Show the agents that you understand how valuable their time is by keeping the cover letter short & sweet.
Far too many actors end up writing a long cover letter, and the agents end up just trowing it in the "circular file" aka trash can.
This is a sample of a good cover letter:
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ASPIRING STAR
4321 Superstar Street
Beverly Hills CA 90210
Attn: Mr. Agent
Enclosed you will find my photo and resume for your consideration. I am currently seeking theatrical (and/or commercial) representation. I will be calling your offices in the next week or so to make sure you have received this package in one piece.
Sincerely,
Savannah Starlet
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Now the agent even has a few moments to actually look at the photo and resume!
Then after about a week, give them a quick call and just say your name, tell them that you sent in a photo and resume, and that you are calling back as you had promised in your letter. They will usually write your name down, and say that they will give you a call if interested, or we are reviewing it, etc. Again, just keep it short and show them that you value their time. They will be pleasantly surprised.
Say something like.....
"No problem, I don't want to take up your time. I just promised I would make sure the package got there in one piece (then pause)"...
They'll either be impressed (and relieved) at the brief conversation, or will be so caught off guard that they'll try to explain further. If they haven't said goodbye, then just repeat a variation of your previous words (always offering them a chance to end the conversation and reinforcing that you know their time is valuable). Agents get tired off so many actors calling and somewhat begging, "can I come in for an interview", or "I am very talented and would be a great addition to your roster". If you follow these steps, keep your letter and conversation brief, the agent will most likely appreciate it.
Call the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been made against the agency.
Tips & Warnings
* Agents making their living by earning a percentage of each job they book for a model. Do not pay any up-front fees to an agent.
* If you're not happy with the number of auditions or bookings you are getting, set up an appointment with your agent and discuss what you can do to generate more jobs.
* If the agent lies to you, makes outrageous promises or asks for up-front money (to cover phone calls or mailing expenses on your behalf), keep looking. Legitimate agents do not ask for expense money.
Go to the website link below. It is the Screen Actors Guild Agent list for both SAG franchised and non-franchised agencies in all states:
Click Here for the Screen Actors Guild Talent Agency Database.
You can also check the website below to see which type of agency it is (Adults,Youth,Commercial,Etc.)
Click Here for the Association of Talent Agencies database.
The following publication is the top entertainment industry resource for finding agents and managers:
