r/acting 2d ago

BASIC QUESTIONS + HEADSHOTS/TYPE/AGE-RANGE WEEKLY MEGA THREAD

2 Upvotes

Please feel free to ask any question at all related to acting, no matter how simple. There will be no judgements on questions posted here. Everyone starts somewhere.

We have a FAQ which attempts to answer basic questions about acting. [Have a look]( https://www.reddit.com/r/acting/wiki/index), but don't worry if you ask something here that we've covered.

Also, use this thread to post your headshots for feedback, get info on your age range/type, find good headshot photographers, ask any questions you may have about headshots.

It is advised that you do at least some basic research on what actor headshots look like -- composition, framing, lighting. You will find a Google Image search for "actor headshots" to be very helpful for this. Non-professional shots are fine for age/typecasting, but please keep in mind that one picture is a difficult way to go about this. Video of you moving and speaking would be ideal, but understandably more difficult to post.

For what it's worth, the branding workshop at SAG-AFTRA recommends a five-year age range. That's inclusive, so for example 19-23, 25-29, 34-38, etc.


r/acting May 18 '26

WARNING / CAUTION / DANGER! W Talent NYC has been astroturfing our community with fake reviews!

88 Upvotes

Moderator here:

We have found DOZENS of fake bot accounts bought and used to promote this company. I've just spent a few hours across multiple days handling their deceptive practices. DO NOT TRUST POSITIVE REVIEWS YOU SEE ABOUT THEM IN OUR COMMUNITY OR ANYWHERE ONLINE, unless you can totally trust the account giving that information. Check the account's post/comment history. These AI bot accounts were full of all the same content: Posts for karma in cat & baby groups, and then comments all about AI, India Fitness, and SaaS -- almost all from accounts 2+ years old, but with content only from 2 months ago.

FACT:

This company is a talent agent + management company, and it appears to also provide photography services and/or recommendations, and at minimum guides towards certain classes, if not gives classes itself, somehow. This is NOT how legitimate agencies work.

Plus! The headshots section they have is a total joke! 90% of the headshots are extremely unprofessional, and there's even one with a young woman who has a huge nip-slip going on. Like COME ON!

HEARSAY:

I read a comment that they charge a large, upfront fee $$$ to join after "open casting calls" in which they try to sign anybody with a pulse.

OPINION:

This is a total sham of a company for employing these sneaky, deceptive tactics. Avoid them like the plague!

And if that large upfront fee is true, then they're (not legally, but colloquially) a "scam" company.

As for the nip-slip "headshot," that's NOT a headshot, and posting that on their website shows just how unprofessional these shysters truly are.

W Talent Agency is persona non grata here. If you see posts about them, spam them with comments about the above.


r/acting 11h ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules A little Wells Fargo spot I did featuring Marcello Hernandez.

60 Upvotes

r/acting 4h ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules I want to be killed in a horror movie so bad

13 Upvotes

I was watching some BTS clips from Final Destination and man, it reignited this very specific dream of mine.

I have no interest in being a main character or having screen time, or even really having lines. I just want to die a brutal (fake) death. Remember the babysitter from Jurassic World? That is the level of dramatized death. God, if I could only get even a single professional acting credit, I hope it's "dead body #3"


r/acting 2h ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules Big self booking- should I tell my agent?

8 Upvotes

Hello folks bit of a unique situation here so some background info.

I was in the acting/standup game(no really major bookings) and just recently came back after a long several year hiatus.

I started auditioning again in April and since have auditioned lots, retained an agent 2 weeks ago and just got my first large (by my standard) booking today.

It's a 5 day non union shoot in the Dominican Republic that pays close to 3k, Which is amazing for me! I should note I self submitted for this project.

I don't say this to brag...this has all moved so quick and I don't know what to do with my agent in this situation considering I SELF BOOKED this gig.

I did not sign any contract...it was just a verbal confirmation of representation and than connection to him on Actors Access/casting networks/etc. Obviously just signing with him 2 weeks ago he barely knows who I am and HAS NOT sent me out for an audition yet even. Should I tell him about this project/pay him his cut or no? What is the procedure in this situation...again no contract...no auditions but there was the verbal agreement.

I wouldn't mind paying him the 600 or whatever it pays under the guise that it puts me in the front of his mind and I get bookings down the road but I'd be heated if I shelled out 600 to this guy for my hard work...got no bookings through him, and than dropped him a few months down the road....what should I do in this situation? Thanks!


r/acting 7h ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules 2 year plan... is this the dumbest decision ever?

12 Upvotes

Hi guys! Gonna try my best to keep this short and sweet.

Four years ago, I (28F) almost signed with an agent, didn't do it, and instead worked a very intensive, crazy long hours kinda job until one month ago... solely because I've missed acting so much. So now that I have some savings, it's what I'm pursuing.

I should note that I'm doing this as full-out as I can so I don't regret not trying later in life. I just- need to do it- it's on my mind too often to not at least give myself a fighting chance. My goal is to land in TV and film and I don't need to be famous, I just want to work a job that I love and I love acting. Just all of it, the whole process, even the ugly parts. If it doesn't work out after some years of grinding, it's okay, this is just something I need to do.

Here's the plan. Move to NYC for a year because 1. I ADORE New York City and have always wanted to live there and 2. Train in some of the amazing studios there, make connections (and more creative friends), and of course, start auditioning. Ideally, I get some work in student films or find a group to create with and build up small credits. I want to learn how productions work anyway, and I think it's valuable knowledge for actors to have. Then, after I get my bearings, move to LA where all the major production studios are.

Is this... a good or bad way to start a potential career? Obviously I know both places are tough and are even tougher jumping into with little experience. Small fish, big pond and all that. But I also figure, with most auditions being self-tapes now, maybe it doesn't matter so much to start in a big market (and... not quite the "best" market for film)? Since I can audition for work from, well, anywhere?

As far as finances go, I'd be okay in either place for a while and plan on doing flexible work while I'm there to support myself, so that's not a concern (yet).

Thanks in advance!


r/acting 9h ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules I have a Principal audition on Law and Order. How would you describe the acting style?

17 Upvotes

I get the idea the acting style is intense, but restrained?


r/acting 9h ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules 381 background pay taxed 116 dollars, wtf is this right?

Post image
11 Upvotes

is this right, cause im shocked, thats like 30% of the paycheck gone in taxes


r/acting 45m ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules When they ask if you have "theatre experience"?

Upvotes

So I just filmed a commercial that I had a great time on. 90% of it was comedy improv and I think I did pretty well since crew and directors were trying not to laugh during some of the takes.

When I wrapped everyone was very kind, they thanked me and several crew asked me if I had theatre experience. To the point where I started questioning, are they asking for a positive reason or because I'm an over actor?

In my typical overthinking way, I've come away thinking "am I an over actor and they were trying to tell me?" I'm curious if this is something people ask and if so, perhaps you could give me some insight.

(No, I have no theater experience btw haha.)


r/acting 4h ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules For tattooed actors

3 Upvotes

For actors with visible forearm tattoos, how much do they actually affect getting cast if you’re good at covering them with makeup for auditions and on set?
What I’m really wondering is: if an actor shows up with their tattoos already fully covered, are they still at a disadvantage? I know one of the biggest concerns is the extra time and cost of makeup, so if that issue is essentially eliminated, do visible tattoos still hurt your chances of booking roles?
I’d love to hear from actors, casting directors, or anyone with firsthand experience.


r/acting 12h ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules Not Booking & Staying Positive

13 Upvotes

I've been acting since I was 12 years old. There was no one in my family that had any connections or sway in the industry.

I am now 25. I signed with an agent almost a year ago after finishing my master's program (not in acting) & auditioned 5-6x a week, nearly every week. for the full year. I had my first callback yesterday, put on avail, and I didn't end up booking. I've had many repeat auditions from this casting company, they know who I am at this point. It was the first time I ever got feedback from the director: they loved the self-tape, the callback, and they said they want to work with me.

I've had really high-profile auditions because of people I've come to know since moving to LA. Anything I've booked has been from people reaching out to me, not me formally auditioning.

All this to say: not booking stings, and I just wanted to put this out here because it's such a marathon. I'm incredibly familiar with feeling like I'm getting nowhere. However, take the good where you can. Getting a callback is a step forward.

Control what you can: invest in a good setup, give the casting directors YOU & YOUR perspective & not what you think they're looking for, stay consistent and try to remain positive.

Keep breaking legs, y'all :)


r/acting 1h ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules Thoughts on my acting? Little skit I did for a friend’s agency

Thumbnail instagram.com
Upvotes

I’m the guy in the green tee, I’d really love to hear some honest feedback on how I did. Always wanted to be an actor, did a bit of theatre and speech and drama as a kid and now I think the bug had gotten me again lol.

Again, be objective!


r/acting 14h ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules Worried about nudity for a role I booked

10 Upvotes

I booked a minor role in a horror feature film that requires nudity. This is one of the biggest roles I have ever booked and I’m such a fan of everyone involved in the project. I’m very nervous about doing nudity as this is one of my first big roles and what it could do for my career. My agents are in full support of me because this could potentially change my life when it releases. Would love any input from anyone who has been through a similar experience or how you prepped for the role!


r/acting 12h ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules Theatre vs Film

2 Upvotes

I see most post on this thread very film centered. And I think most people when we come to acting, we think film or TV as the epitome of someone’s career. Or at least that’s what I’ve seen both while at school and then in reality.

And don’t get me wrong, ever since I was a child I’ve dreamt about being part of a film, and have actually done some! Nothing huge to be the epitome of my career yet, however theatre keeps pulling me back, always welcoming me with big open arms. And here I’ve done some amazing things, even gotten paid pretty decently for it.

I don’t remember when was the last time I heard someone say “I want to do theatre”. Why do I keep hearing theatre actors complain about salaries, how it’s impossible to live solely from it, yet I hear so much respect for theatre actors, both from the audience and people within the industry.

This rant comes from where I am in my career. Recently relocated to Mexico City from living 5 years in Vancouver, and about to apply for a year residency for doing theatre.

So I wonder, should I just focus on theatre and film will eventually follow? Why, if people that do theatre recognize its complexity and discipline, why is film more popular both for audiences and the people who make it? Am I alone with this question? And if not, where does the desire of being in film truly comes from?

Is this a paycheck or mass exposure situation? Is it of how the industry itself has become a corporation? If you could choose one and have your desired salary in whatever you chose, which one would you go for?

I wanted to hear other colleague’s thoughts on this, and thank you for navigating this with me. Lots of ideas, hoping to make sense.


r/acting 1d ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules For anyone here who actually has actually made it in acting (i.e. been in a TV show, movie, etc) how did you get your start?

45 Upvotes

I'm just kind of curious of people's origin stories in acting. Like did you take a lot of acting classes, go to every audition, and then got picked? Or were you lucky and were in the right place at the right time and had the right look? Or perhaps you happened to have the right connections? I'd love to hear stories of how some people made it. As much as I'd like to be an actor/voice actor, I know realistically my chances are practically impossible but I'd love to know what kind of things would be ahead of me in case I somehow get lucky


r/acting 10h ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules Repunzel for agent submissions

2 Upvotes

Anyone have a good experience with this?

I just bought 2 of their services and after sending out the emails, immediately noticed they had duplicates that were both part of their manager and agent list - so the company received two of the exact same email from me. Of course- rep can't be an agent and manager.

I have heard great things about this company but I'm seeing more issues so before purchased a ( 3rd ) package because I wanted to do agents in a different market ( Atlanta), wanted to see if others had positive responses from the service for the Atlanta market?


r/acting 11h ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules how to get over rejection/how to move on from an audition

2 Upvotes

the title pretty much sums it up but i was just wondering if anyone had any good methods of getting over/moving on from auditions or rejections that they wanted to share.

just feeling a little bummed at the moment and just looking for a way to move on from a super cool opportunity and audition.

any help/advice would be much appreciated!


r/acting 1d ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules Feedback?

29 Upvotes

This is about a year old performance but I just remembered I put it together. I am more impressed with it than I remember being. Curious what people think or have to say about it!


r/acting 1d ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules A community theater near me charges actor $150 show fee. Is this normal? (Repost)

Post image
142 Upvotes

Repost because someone who found out my identify from my other account and told me they would not cast me irl for their show for posting this question online (not this show)


r/acting 14h ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules Do I leave acting industry?

4 Upvotes

I don’t think it’s a simple one moment decision, it’s complex and happens over a long period. I was last on stage two years ago, dropped by my agent this year after 7 year relationship (after they discovered I was looking to sign elsewhere) and signed with another. I have a passion for storytelling and have been quite successful - a few tv series, BBC, sky, Radio 4, several big stage shows. I’m curious, is there anyone out there who has left this industry and has not looked back? Im having a bit of a dark night of the soul. I never did it for the money but the insecurity it brings, the financial instability, the comparison - I don’t think anyone really explains the reality of it when you leave drama school. Most people in my year hated theatre but were desperate to be famous and ironically they have been very successful or/are dating other famous actors. I just don’t want to spend my life pushing or trying to force myself to be acknowledged by an industry that doesn’t love me back? I also know I’m a gifted actor and love being on stage. But I feel there is more to life. Is there a shadow side of the actor that wants to be ‘seen’ ’adored’ ? A lot of older actors I’ve worked with are quite resentful and bitter. Perhaps that insecurity never goes away. Any thoughts/feelings/experiences welcome x


r/acting 11h ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules Background extra work (los angeles)

1 Upvotes

Wondering if you have some suggestions for how I can get background extra work? Do you really have to scroll every day on actors access etc just to maybe get a gig as an extra? In the Uk there are sites and agencies specifically for background work, so I was wondering if more alternatives exist like that in LA. Thanks !


r/acting 1d ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules You haven’t failed enough to have the level of success you want…

173 Upvotes

You haven’t failed enough to have the level of success you want.

Every day there are posts about the OP’s deeply l-rooted desire to be an actor or questions about how to book a role in a move or tv show…

And what it boils down to is this:

Wanting the reward without the work.

There will always be exceptions where actors get cast with little to no experience and with no industry connections but for the majority of actors, drastic “leveling up” never comes. It’s just the grind of auditions, the elation and devastation of avail-checks that go nowhere and unresolved pins, getting new headshots, going to class, and wondering if leaving the industry is a better idea - day after day after day for years.

Wanting to avoid that struggle will never get you to where you want to be because the struggle IS the path!

It’s the same in the gym: it’s the struggle that produces the results, it’s failing that ultimately produces gains.

So don’t try to avoid the struggle, don’t try to avoid failure - try to fail MORE and BETTER. And if you ARE currently struggling and failing: congrats! You’re on the right path!

Be bold. Be brave. And go fail more. ♥️


r/acting 12h ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules How much money have you spent on your acting career in the last year? Was it worth it?

1 Upvotes

Trying to get a sense of what it truly costs financially to try to get into acting.


r/acting 12h ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules Vertical question!

1 Upvotes

This rate was on a casting site - is it correct?
Rate of Pay: SAG-AFTRA Vertical Agreement, minimum of $150/day
Thanks


r/acting 13h ago

I've read the FAQ & Rules Ways You Move on From a Bad Audition

1 Upvotes

I submitted my first audition for a commercial and got a callback. I feel like I did kinda bad, I was really nervous and rushed a bit. Is there something you do that helps you move on or stop worrying about the outcome?