Written by Jennifer Nelson
For those attempting to get their acting careers off the ground, try following these simple five auditioning tips. Having the audition preparation you need to land the role will help to launch your acting career.
Tip 1: Best Face Forward
To make your head shot stand out amongst the hundreds of people applying for the part, ask fellow actors from your acting classes and the instructors at your acting college, that you are of course enrolled in, which photographers they recommend. Do your research and make sure you like this photographer’s previous work, style and website. Ask to meet them in person prior to your shoot to tell them about yourself, what roles you plan of going for, and that you want to have as little touch-ups as possible. Be sure to get a good night’s sleep, drink lots of water and let your natural distinctive beauty shine through!
Tip 2: What Type Are You?
Knowing how you will be perceived by an acting director will assist you in auditioning for the right role. Contemplate your recent auditions and see if you are auditioning for similar roles. Consider your personal interests; the casting director might be looking to hire the ‘real deal’ rather than having to instruct an actor on how to play an instrument, sports, art, etc. Think about your vocal quality and how that could be applied to the roles you are going for. And lastly, ask the people from your acting classes or the people in your life that know you the best what roles you convey the best. This will help with you landing the right roles for launching and maintaining your acting career.
Tip 3: The Monologue
Read as many plays as possible! The more you read, the more monologues are in your repertoire. Do not write your own monologue (because the whole point is how well you can convey another person’s writing) and do not use overdone monologues (been there, done that!). Chose a piece that you love, is true to who you are, and is appropriate for the part you are auditioning for. You want the casting director to envision you in the part, make it easy for them!
Tip 4: Perfect Pitch
First things first: forget about the traditional two-song audition repertoire of an up-tempo number and a contrasting ballad. These days, you need to have a “book” of songs. Choose songs that complement your range, have lyrics that speak to you and an overall song that is emotionally engaging. You might not have the most talent out of everyone you are auditioning against, but if you are the most passionate you will certainly be a contender.
Tip 5: Dress Your Best
Do NOT wear a costume. You should be able to convey the character without having to dress like the character. Also try to avoid wearing white, a lot of jewelry, perfume or too much makeup. Your audience wants to see and hear you, not what you are wearing. Dress comfortably and in colors that bring out your eyes or in black since it is slimming and good for most complexions. Make sure your outfit compliments your figure, does not make you look washed out and is something that you can do your best in!
By following these five acting auditioning tips, you will be sure to launch your acting career!
Jennifer Nelson has been empowering and educating visual artists by providing them with real life ‘business of art’ information in San Francisco, California for several years. Her thought provoking and popular content has been featured in GD USA and Vogue amongst others. Jennifer is currently focusing her efforts as the Content Specialist for Academy of Art University in the Bay Area.
