Wednesday, February 2, 2011

It's a Job, Just Like Anything Else

As I was pondering what topic to tackle for this post, it just struck me...I honestly didn't want to write at all. I have been playing Angry Birds on the Ipad and I would much rather continue to do so on this icy, snow day.

SO, what I'd like to address is the question of whether or not modeling and acting is a full-time job. In my opinion, the answer is unequivically yes. Although the actual work, the majority of the time is sporadic, it is your "job" to be promoting yourself at all times. For example, I took some time this morning and created a Facebook Fan Page.
Here are some ideas of what else you can be doing:
  • Research agencies online who you can submit your pictures to
  • Find out when the agencies are holding open calls and attend them
  • Research photographer websites and portfolios to get ideas of what you like in a headshot
  • Read acting blogs to get a sense of what you can expect
Finally, for those of you who are working, how about sitting down and working on your taxes? Most actors and models are considered independent contractors and as such need to keep detailed records of their earnings and expenses. Yes, even my 8-year old has to pay taxes. That being said, I am off to work on them...

2 comments:

  1. Shouldn't your agent be doing all of this work for you?

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  2. For many people, even landing an agent is hard work. Also, agents represent many people, so you still need to keep your name and face in front of them (update them with things you are doing on your own) so when it comes time to submit you for things, you are at the top of their list. When an agent gets a "breakdown" or description of a role they may only be able to send in a certain number of people for the audition (for example 5)...they then think about which 5 out of perhaps 20 or so actors that match the description and get them an audition time. All this to say, your agent does some of the work but by no means all of it.

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