Headshot is what it sounds like. A professional photo of your face. The most important thing about a headshot is that the photo looks like you, perhaps a better, more glamorous version of you, but still you. I’ve had directors not recognize the headshot and not remember the person’s audition. Your physical characteristics are the main interest of whatever job you are auditioning for. This is not always the case though, if you’re a good enough actor/actress; the casting director may pencil you in for another part if you do not have the specific look they are casting for mainly.
A resume is a very important tool, even if you do not have much experience. First off, it will tell the casting director who you are, measurements, and hair/eye color. Second, it will show your experience and special skills/interests you have. Third, the contact information on who to get a hold of to book you for the job. Remember, every job is different and you must treat it as though it was a job interview. Imagine how would you dress and act if you were to be interview for your dream job.
DO’S
Print or staple your resume to the back of your headshot. I’ve been told that casting directors prefer you to staple the resume using four staples, one in each corner.
If you are stapling, trim your resume to fit the headshot. You do not it want to look sloppy.
Make sure the head shot shows your face. I’ve seen headshots that are so close-up, it’s hard to see the whole person.
Have a few extra copies with you when you go to auditions. You never know who will want them. Keep them in your car, away from the sun; you never know when you may need them.
DON’T
Lie about your experience.
Make up special skills or write things down just so you fill in the special skill area.
Have a resume and headshot that is larger that 8 x 10. An oversize headshot won’t fit in a standard folder and will probably just get thrown away.
Have a resume that is more than one page. If they want more information, they will ask for it. Only include your most important and current experience that you think will “woo” the casting director. Remember, every job is different.
Staple reviews or clippings to your resume. They just get in the way.
Make the type smaller than 10 pt. If you have that much experience, edit it down. If your resume is cramped and hard to read, no one will bother.
Here are some things you want to think about when creating your resume.
A lot of theater is about connections. If you worked a well-known theater like the Long Wharf Theater or the Guthrie, make sure that the name of the theater is on your resume. If you worked with a well-known director such as Sam Mendes or Mac Wellman, make sure their name is on your resume.
One of the things that can happen in an audition is that a name on your resume is recognized, so it gets second look.
You do not have to list everything you’ve done. List the most important roles and events first.
The example resume has a place for everything including theater, tours, film, television and commercials. You don’t have to have all these things on your resume either. Cutting a major theater performance, just to listing a student film to demonstrate film experience is probably not worth it.
Just use common sense and don’t worry if it’s your resume doesn’t have any large theaters or major experience on it. Everybody has to start at the beginning. That is why Tru Talent is here. Feel free to ask you’re booking agent any questions or concerns you have, and we will try our best to help you reach your goal.
AUDITIONING ETIQUETTE
Auditioning can be stressful, but it’s the best way to find work in theater, film and commercials. Here are some helpful hints when heading out for an audition.
FIRST AND FOREMOST, do not assume! When you go into an audition, do not do anything until the casting director directs you to. They are the ones interviewing you and will give you directions on what to do.
Try not to apologize if you mess up. If you forget your lines, try to recover the best you can. Do not stop and ask if you can start over.
Arrive at least 15 minutes early. You don’t want to have to rush into your audition. Give yourself time to find the space and warm up.
Pack your bag with a book in case there is waiting and a bottle of water. Not every place has a water fountain.
Be nice to everybody. You never know if the person you are speaking to is important.
There may be several people waiting with you to audition. Remember that they are competing with you for the same job. Don’t let them intimidate you.
Wear neat, comfortable clothing. I know you want to look nice, but make sure you can move around the room. And don’t wear a costume. Your outfit can suggest the character such as a high-collar blouse for a period piece, but don’t get all dressed up. (UNLESS SUGGESTED OTHERWISE)
Careful when using perfume or cologne. You don’t want to send anyone out of the room in a sneezing fit.
Try to find some background information about who you are auditioning for. If you are auditioning for a particular company, be familiar with their work. It can also help you decide which pieces to choose for your audition.
Bring a few different extra headshots. You never know how many you will need.
Make sure your resume is firmly attached to your headshot. If possible, photocopy or print your resume to the back of the headshot. Stapling does the job fine, but I know that the headshots with staples get tangled in a pile. It is so much easier to access the individual sheets.
Make sure your headshot/resume is no large than 8″ by 10″. This will fit into a folder. If the headshot is oversized, it may end up in the trash.
Remember to smile. If you are nervous, take a deep breath and try to relax. Recognize that you are not going to get every job you audition for, but can learn from every experience.
When you are called in for your audition, be confident and smile and unless it is vital, avoid asking too many questions as your audition probably has a tight time slot.
If no information for the audition is given, keep your monologue to about a minute. Most directors can tell in that time if they are interested. Have several pieces prepared and one longer piece in case they ask to see more.
Definitely do not ask if you will be called back. The casting director will let us know, that you can be sure of. If you do get called back, wear the same outfit as during your audition.