Treat your Audition like it Matters!

As actors, we all know how difficult and frustrating this profession can be. Too much competition, not enough jobs, not enough pay when we do book. Things always seem stacked against us. So when we do get an opportunity to try for a job, you want to make the most of it.

In today’s commercial production world, things happen quickly. When a casting director puts out a breakdown, they can get 1500 to 3000 submissions for a single part. The production company may have only given them one day to cast that part. Think about that: let’s say the part has dialogue—perhaps 3 or 4 lines and some action.

The actor steps in the room, the session director explains the audition and directs the actor in what is expected of him or her. If it is complicated, perhaps the actor requires a rehearsal. Then redirect. First performance is recorded, another redirect and a second performance recorded. Assuming none of the recordings are stopped and restarted for flubs, the entire process will take maybe 6-7 minutes.

Under ideal circumstances, the casting director can schedule 10 actors per hour to audition. In an 8 hour day, that’s 80 actors. 80…out of 3000 submitted. Which means about 2.5% of actors submitted got an audition. That’s pretty lousy odds, which makes those chances, those opportunities to book a paying gig, even more precious.

So when I see actors wasting them by not showing up or coming in late or early or not wearing the right clothes or not looking at copy posted for them online, I am understandably frustrated. Not just because they have squandered an opportunity, but because they are behaving unprofessionally—they are dishonoring the profession I love.

What would happen if a plumber or surgeon did the same? The plumber who showed up for a job without his tools or dressed in tennis attire would soon lose his job. A surgeon who reported for duty in a golf outfit with no knowledge of the patient he was working on would be laughed out of medicine.

So what should you do? Let me sum it up in two simple words: BE PROFESSIONAL! When you get an audition from your agent you want to find out the following information:

1) What is the product?
2) Who is the casting director and where is the audition?
3) When is the audition?
4) What is my character? Does he have lines? If so,
5) Are there scripts available?
6) Am I expected to appear in costume or makeup?

If you are really thorough you will ask who is the director, what is the union status, the run on the spot and what conflicts are held.
Then get to the audition 15 minutes before your time so you are able to relax and study your script. Have a headshot with you, even if you think you won’t need it. Use your waiting time wisely preparing for your audition.

In short, treat it like it is important to your life and career—because it is!

Doug Traer has been working in film, television, theatre, and commercials for the past 26 years. His film credits include Robert Miller’s “Brenda Starr,” the critically acclaimed “Speak of the Devil” and the black comedy “Dead Giveaway.” He has had multiple roles on “General Hospital,” appeared in “America’s Most Wanted” and “Saved by the Bell,” among others. He has made a number of national TV commercials for products such as Mercedes-Benz, Sony Playstation, Sprint, Blue Cross Insurance, Baskin Robbins Ice Cream and Hardee’s Restaurants. In addition to his acting gigs, he works as a commercial casting director and session director as well as teaching and providing career guidance to young actors or those just getting into the business.

Doug Teaches Commercial Wednesday Workouts at Keep it Real Acting Studios.

---

Q&A with Commercial Agent of the Year, Hugh Leon

I recently had the pleasure of talking with Hugh Leon from Coast to Coast Talent. Hugh has been the Talent Manager's Association's Commercial Agent of the Year for the past 2 years, and has been nominated for the past 9 years. He was gracious enough to take the time to give us some insight from a commercial agent's perspective.

Judy:  What do you look for in an Actor that comes in for representation? What do you tell actors after you sign them? 
Hugh:  There are four things that I typically look for when considering taking on a client:

1. Do you have a commercial look? I know this is subjective, but the first thing I need to evaluate is whether or not you are something I can sell.
   
2. Do you fill a need for us?
   
3. Can you handle copy and How do you handle direction?
   
4. Personality! Do I feel that you are going to be high maintenance? Are you somebody that I know I can send out there and  be confident in your ability to do well, be professional, charming and personable? Finally, will we get along?

We conduct a thorough orientation after signing. Both sides should know what we expect from them and what they expect from us. Make sure that they have the right photos, are enrolled in a good class, like yours, even if they already have training. I only recommend 3 places, and Keep it Real Acting is one of them. After you feel that you are at the top of your game, then do showcases. Also, Improv training- and not just 101, but one of the big stages like UCB, iO West or Second City.

Judy: What's the best way for an actor to bolster their relationship with an agent?
Hugh: The best way to foster a good agent relationship is to comply with what we ask from them. Make sure they have the right materials, stay on top of their game and don't fall into the woodworks. We don't always have time for drop-bys. Instead shoot us emails to catch up! Its important to keep in touch without being over burdening or obnoxious. Always remember: We are 10% and you are 90%… What are you doing for your 90%?

Judy: What tips would you give to an Actor who is in a slump (not booking)? 
Hugh: They have to understand that when they are going through a slump and it starts to trigger their psyche; maybe they are down about personal stuff, and it really starts to mess with their confidence. A lot of actors' inner feelings can't be hidden. Their confidence is not the same. 

Find a way to reach within, to concentrate on the positives, even if there aren't many. You may even have to go back and tell yourself "I'm talented," "I have my house," "I have my friends." Find something on the inside that really shines through to make the confidence and inner light shine again. The People that are booking are the people out there that are just happy. They found peace and happiness and they just shine! 

Get into a class and you'll find breakthroughs! You'll be able to watch yourself on tape. The class itself has other actors in it going through similar career swings. It'll give you the opportunity to get out of your head and have someone point things out and notice the little things that are there. To me, the buttons at the end really make a difference. They'll separate you from the pack, when other actors are saying the same lines.

Judy: What is the most rewarding thing for you as an agent? What part of being an agent is most fulfilling?
Hugh: Booking is my favorite thing… Helping them fulfill their dreams. When an actor gets really excited, and they scream and yell, that makes me happy! Show a little excitement. It makes me want to have you book again. One of the most fulfilling experiences is when someone is in a slump, we have a little pep talk, and then they go out to book!

Judy: What advice would you give to actors who are without representation?
Hugh: There are a lot of actors that aren't represented, so make sure you stand out. Many actors put the cart before the horse. Set yourself up for an agent before you get one. Actors should get decent pictures with the right background. Actors should also have commercial training- not just theatrical training. Have your ducks in a row, know your business and get your feet wet before you even approach representation. Do your research.Get to know who you are approaching and how you are coming across. You can't just show up on a baseball field and say "Ok, I want to be a Philly!" Why should an agent represent you? Give them a reason for it.

---

Hugh Leon is a partner and head of the adult commercial and celebrity departments at Coast to Coast Talent Group, one of the leading talent agencies in Los Angeles since 1987. Coast to Coast represents youth and adult actors for commercials, print, voice over and film/tv. Hugh has been an active participant in the entertainment industry for over 4 decades. He began his show business career as a child actor in Philadelphia before moving to New York City, and later to Los Angeles. After graduating from UCLA, he worked at a couple of agencies before joining Coast to Coast in 1996. Hugh's lifelong experience in show business has contributed to his unparalleled success in representing commercial & celebrity talent. He has been nominated by the TMA 9 years in a row and winner of 3 'Commercial Agent of the Year' Seymour Heller awards (2007, 2012, & 2013). Hugh has also been featured in numerous television program interviews, and is quoted in countless national industry publications.

---

Confident, not Cocky, is the Key

When you walk in to an audition with confidence, it is always appealing.  When you walk in cocky, it is almost always off putting.

The question is how do we FEEL confident? (Especially if we have not booked a job yet or in a while!)

Here are a few suggestions:

• Find One thing about yourself that you are sure of and use that as your mantra before you go in. Ex: "I know I have great hair" or "I know I have the gift of good comedic timing." Walk in with that... and don't expect anything from them. If you focus on your strengths, your entire audition will project an air of confidence.

• Be of service to them! Understand that they want someone to walk in and nail the audition so that they can go home. Keep that in mind. They want you to succeed! Go into the audition as if you're stopping by to help them out. Ex: You have the perfect looks, hair for the role. You are there to help them solve their problem- which is to find the actors to make the commercial work. Let them know by your CONFIDENCE that you can help them solve their problem.

• Leave the audition knowing you offered them a solution for fun and for free! Say a polite, "Take care!" "Nice to see ya!"  "Have a great day!"

Try it on your next audition and let us know how it works for you... And see if the ride home is more pleasant!

-Judy Kain

The 5 Worst Headshot Mistakes Actors Make

Why does the thought of taking headshots send so many actors into a state of anxiety?  Is it the fact that the actor’s most important marketing tool needs to look just like them, convey their true essence, create interest and intrigue, all while showing confidence, talent, and marketability?

The problem is that actors never really learn the art of having their headshot taken. It’s a process. And just like learning every other aspect of the business, it gets easier in time. But if you know what you’re doing, not only can you become successful at it, the process can even be enjoyable.

As an image/headshot consultant, I see actors making the same mistakes over and over throughout the process. It doesn’t matter where they are in their careers, the level of their acting abilities, how long they have been doing it, or their age…actors continuously make five of the Worst Mistakes when having their headshots taken. How many are you guilty of?

1. Not knowing who you are and how you fit in.You would think that every actor knows their type, but it amazes me how “off” most are when asked. If you don’t know who you are or how you fit into the marketplace, how do you expect an agent or casting director to know what to do with you? You as an actor must know your type (physical/emotional/ability), your brand (what is unique and special about you) and your marketability (the roles you can be cast in today)…and you must present all of those specific aspects in your headshots.  If you are unsure, it would be in your best interest to get out there and find out. The way to do that is by asking people…and in people, I don’t mean your mother, or husband, or girlfriend, or even your “bestie” …they have all been programmed to tell us that everything we do is wonderful. People who can help are those who are knowledgeable and who can be truthful; agents, managers, consultants, and acting teachers. Fellow actors you see once a week in classes are also a great source since they know you and your abilities but aren’t actually friends.  Oh by the way, an actor’s type and brand are ever changing…so for you thirty-five year old guys wearing hoodies and that fifty year old woman still rocking “The Rachel”…keep up…life changes.
2. Picking the wrong photographer. As you all know, there are hundreds of photographers out there.  Anyone can buy a camera and set up a website, but that doesn’t make them a good headshot photographer. Charging huge sums of money also doesn’t guarantee a great shot. Many photographers are more concerned with their own egos and creating their own stylized shots. Those shots only get the photographers more work, not the actor. Recommendations are a great way to find a photographer, although what works for one actor doesn’t always work for every actor. Agents and managers all have a list of preferred photographers, however, you have to ask: When did they last update the list? and Why are they preferred? Far too often, actors give over all control to the photographers thinking they know best. They may know what lens and light to use, but they don’t know you. You must know exactly what you need and want from your headshots before you even meet your first photographer. Find a photographer who “gets” you and understands the importance of bringing out your unique individuality
3. Not putting in the necessary work.This is by far the number one worst headshot mistake actors make. If you think getting your clothes together, having your haircut, and showing up are all you have to do…then don’t question why your shots look so generic.  Actors put more work into their scene study class then they do into their single most important marketing tool. When I work with actors, I have them fill out worksheets in order to identify their type, brand and marketability. We then translate those aspects into specific headshot looks or set-ups unique to each actor and the roles s/he can or should play. But the work doesn’t stop there. The entire headshot session should be treated like an audition or acting job with each look or set-up as specific scenes. Next I coach actors in the art of connecting with the camera while creating interest and intrigue within each specific scene…oh, and do all this while looking comfortable, confident, and exactly like you on a good day. All this prep work must be done before the actor even shows up to the photographer’s studio! Remember, we are talking about your career. Are you willing to put the work into getting amazing headshots, or do you want to put all control into the hands of someone who doesn’t really know you or your abilities?
4. Picking your own headshots. Come on…you all know we only pick pictures of ourselves where we look great. Unfortunately, those are usually not the best shots. With casting directors receiving over 2500 submissions per role, a headshot needs to be so much more than an actor that looks great. There has to be that spark, that something intriguing that makes an agent or casting director stop and take note…something so unique that they want to know more about that actor. Picking the right picture is extremely important. You need to seek help…. and once again, I am not talking about your dad, or your wife, or your roommate. Agents and managers are not known for picking the best pictures, however, they do know how they are selling you and what roles are out there for your type. Acting teachers are also a good resource since they might see glimpses of your unique abilities or personality rather than how great your hair looks. 
5. Over-processing the final picks. Step away from the Photoshop!  Yes, there are certain things that need to be airbrushed…stray hairs, a zit, something odd in the background, but that’s about it. I once coached a very talented disheveled heavyset comic. He was right on point with knowing his type, specific about his brand, and talented up the wazoo, but just wasn’t getting out there. I had him bring his old shots to our first meeting and almost fell out of my chair. The picture looked like a porcelain doll. Everything unique and memorable about this cute chubby scruffy-looking funnyman had been blended away to look like Nicole Kidman’s more attractive sister.  Our flaws are differences that set us apart from others. They make us who we are…learn to embrace them…to embrace you. Every line tells a story, every freckle a secret.  Your acting is unique and different from all those other actors out there, so is your face. Don’t make it generic and forgettable.

Tom Burke, working model and actor, teaches seminars and gives lectures on the importance of headshots and discovering an actor’s image. He is currently consulting and coaching at Keep It Real Acting Studios in North Hollywood, CA where he also teaches the exclusive classes: Headshots A to Z and Not Just a Pretty Face. 

My Child is 4. Do they really need a Class?

Really?  My child is 4…. Do they really need a class?

I used to say NO.. They are only 4… But then, I noticed that the same 10-20 kids book all the commercials in that age category. I talked to some session directors  and Casting Directors who said… “Some kids know what to do and some do not.  Kids who are confident book!”


NOW my answer is a resounding YES!!! On Camera Commercial class will help develop confidence in  the room for kids by the information gained in class.    . Practicing talking to the camera, Standing on the mark and knowing where to look seem like little things but they make a BIG difference in the audition room and especially at the callback.


A good, basic, fun but informative class is all 4-6 year old needs to give them a competitive edge. Those who are shyer may need to take it more than once to get them more comfortable. Overall it is a small time and financial commitment that can bring huge return on your investment.  And if they don’t become Dakota Fanning they will have learned some valuable skills to listen, play well with others, confidence and communication skills. Who cannot use that in life?

                                                                                                        - Charla

---

Charla Cochran is a youth teacher at Keep it Real Acting and has been teaching young children and teenagers for almost 20 years. She received her BFA in Theater Education from the University of Utah in 1995, where she served as Artistic Director for a touring program promoting child abuse prevention.  Charla relocated to the West Coast after directing her own youth theater company in Birmingham, AL, for 10 years.  She has a special gift for working with very young children and has nurtured and encouraged many young actors to find their creative voice. 

---

2 Ways to Jumpstart your career in 2014!

The New Year always brings up an internal resurgence, a renewal to increase, and a drive improve ourselves and our careers. Many actors set great goals for themselves, but get discouraged when it comes to starting.

Many of you have already set your goals for 2014, but may not know where to begin. Whether you're a veteran performer or are just getting started, here are two tangible ways to jumpstart your career in 2014:

Step 1: Complete an honest self appraisal of your assetts and handicaps.

• Is your look working? 
• Are your pictures an honest reflection of that look?
  

If not, get some new head shots that show a spark of your personality.

It is okay if you are not beautiful; in fact, it is almost better to have a natural look, an approachable every man look. This is the trend for commercials these days.

There are classes and coaches available to help you be honest about marketing yourself... You are a product, a viable commodity!
For more information on branding and image consultation, view our Image Management Tab.

Step 2: Send that new head shot out to casting and the industry at large.  Post on FB, tweet, create a postcard that highlights your new look and send it out. It is important to stay in the minds of those who can help us get jobs. They have a lot on their minds and timing is everything...

Accept the challenge of not only setting goals for the New Year, but accomplishing them. Let's make 2014 the year to jumpstart your career!

Happy New Year!
Judy Kain
Owner - Keep it Real Acting Studios
keepitreal@keepitrealacting.com