SELF PROMOTION: The Tools of an Actor

A lot of actors in the believe that all they need is a headshot and a resume and their agent will do the rest. For a few people this technique works for them. For most, self promotion is very important. In the highly competitive Los Angeles and New York markets actors quickly learn that they have to constantly promote themselves.

Headshots: Until recently the "head-only" headshot was standard (hence the name "headshot"). However, now the more inclusive three-quarter shot is becoming more and more popular. A three-quarter shot shows more of the actor's body providing a better idea of the performer's physique. The pose can also give a hint of the actor's personality. Photos should be black and white. Only redheads should do color headshots.

Resumes: Your resume should be attached to the back of your photos at all times. NEVER send or give your photo and resume to anyone without having them attached. Chances are that they will get separated and the person you are giving them to has better things to do than hunt down a stapler to attach your photo and resume together. Print your resume on good quality paper that can stand up to handling. Your resume should be trimmed to fit the 8x10 size of your photo, so take that into consideration when you are printing your resumes.

Stationary: When you are submitting a headshot and resume, it is important to include a cover letter explaining why you are submitting them. Write this letter on your computer and print it out on good quality stationary. If the print quality of your computer printer is poor or you don't own a printer, you can save the letter on a floppy disk and take it to a Kinkos or other similar copy place that rents computer usage. The stationary doesn't have to be extremely expensive. It just needs to be attractive and professional.

Manila Envelopes: Now that you have your headshot, resume and cover letter, you need something to mail it in. A heavyweight 9x12 manila envelope is perfect. These are available at any office supply store or you can buy them online at Staples.com.

Mailing Labels: The post office needs to know where your envelopes are going. You can write the address on the manila envelope, but typed mailing labels look much better. Print a good supply of labels that say "Photograph - Please Do Not Bend" and place one on the lower right hand corner of every photo and resume package you send. Office supply stores have selections of labels that will work with any computer printers or typewriters. You can order labels online from Staples.com, too.

Business cards: Business cards are important and you should carry them at all times. You never know who you are going to meet or where you'll meet them. Photo business cards are best. If you meet a director or casting director at a party or function, handing them an 8x10 of yourself wouldn't be appropriate. A photo business card is easy for them to take and carry with them. It is unlikely that you would be carrying 8x10s with you all the time anyway. Business cards you can carry anywhere at anytime.

Photo Postcards: These are the best way to let agents and casting directors know you are still out there and looking for work. When you have an appearance on a television show or a movie coming up, send a postcard to let them know about it. You can have these done when you have your headshots duplicated.

Demo Reel: This is a selection of your best performances edited together on a videotape. It is essential that you get copies of any appearance you make on a television show, commercial, etc. where you have lines or play a significant role. Your reel should be professionally edited. There are many video production houses in the northwest and it shouldn't be difficult to find one at a reasonable price. If you do not have enough material or any material at all, DO NOT make a home video.

Voice-over CD or tape: If you are interested in doing voice-overs, a CD or tape is essential. If you have never done any voice-overs before, it is acceptable to put a recording together of material that other actors have read or you may write your own, but only if you are good at writing commercial copy. The recording should be done in a professional recording studio. Your best material should be first. The entire tape or CD should be no longer than 3 or 4 minutes.

Web Site: You may also want to create your own web site with your photo and resume on it. This is entirely optional. Be sure to get your own domain name, i.e. www.yourname.com. Make sure your site is professional looking and easy to navigate.

THINGS NOT TO DO:

DO NOT try gimmicks to get yourself noticed by casting directors.

DO NOT show up at someone's office unexpectedly.

DO NOT send gifts to agents, casting directors, etc. whom you have never received any work. Gifts are only appropriate on special occasions and only from people they know relatively well.

DO NOT constantly hound an agent or casting director. Instead, send a photo postcard once a month or so as a reminder that you are around. Send a photo postcard when you are making an appearance in a commercial, television show, or movie. This will keep you in their minds without annoying them.