So you want to be in the entertainment industry...Part 2.

So now that you've read step 1 though 3, you are ready for the next three steps. Please keep in mind that reading about which steps to take is easier than actually taking them. This is just an outline to give you an idea of the steps you need to take Each step might take more time than you had planned. Entering the entertainment industry on any level doesn't happen overnight (often it doesn't happen at all). Be warned! There will be lots of rejection and negativity along the way. It can be very cruel and rough. (I don't just want to paint a sunny picture. I will blog about the negative sides of the business in future blog posts).

Here are the next three steps:

4) Get a good headshot (for actors), Port folio (for models) or demo tape (for singers). Consult experienced professional actors,models and singers whom you trust and whose material gets them auditions. Find out which photographers they recommend and trust. Over time you will have various photographs from different photographers. This is good, especially when pursuing modeling because it'll show a variety of looks/photos. It shows you have some experience in front of the camera. You will also be able to make a composite card with the different photos. (This is basically the business card of a model)

5) Compose a resumé of all the work you have done so far. (This is not a resumé of your 9-5 job, but a resumé of your acting experience). If you don't have any professional experience, write down the community plays you were in and the classes you have taken. As your body of work grows, drop the less professional work (such as school plays) from your resumé. For models the port folio is usually used as a 'resumé'.

6) Next you have to find representation. Send your headshot and resumé (or compcard/or demo) with a brief cover letter to agents in your area. Hopefully one will call you in and agree to represent you. This means they will submit you for certain parts that fit your profile. You then go on the auditions. They get a percentage of everything you make when you book a job. THEY ONLY GET PAID WHEN YOU DO!!!! Never pay an agent any money up front. (More about scams in future posts).

Like I said before this is a quick outline of the steps normally taken when entering the entertainment industry. I will blog more about the nasty, ugly side of the business later on. For now, I just want to give you an idea of the steps ahead. Once those are covered, I will dig much deeper. I've been in this business long enough to know it's not all sunshine and roses. For now, we'll think positive and move forward.

That's all for now. This blog will get deep and very interesting, so stick around, you won't be disappointed.

Toodles,
The Kimster