10 Tips for Actors from a Talent Acting Agent
From writing a representation application to choosing the right agent for you, Talent Agent Oliver Campbell (BWH) shares 10 tips for navigating the industry and getting your foot in the door.
Writing a Representation Email
Agents receive a huge number of applications for representation on a constant basis, so I’d advise aiming for a short and sweet cover letter. One or two paragraphs should be enough to cover the essential information: most recent/strongest credits; skills or qualities that set you apart from others; an invitation to a piece of work you’re in. If an agent calls you in for a meeting, that’s the time to give them some more detailed background.
If you’d like to throw in a line that explains why you’re writing to that specific agent/agency (a client you admire, their reputation, a recommendation from another actor) then that can be a good way to open and to make a connection straight off the bat.
Try not to overthink it. In my experience agents don’t sign actors on the basis of a cover letter, so just double check (then triple check) that your Spotlight and showreel links are working.
Don’t Take it Personally
This is easier said than done. But if you can try and remember that the vast majority of decisions made with regards to casting and representation are not personal and not because you lack talent, then you’ll be all the better for it. Do the preparation, deliver your best work, and then onto the next.
Chasing
Fight the urge to chase an application for representation immediately. If you’ve not heard anything for a couple of months then a follow up email is acceptable. If you have an update of some kind (new showreel, headshots, credits) then it’s okay to flag this. Agents endeavour to respond when they can but it’s simply impossible to reply to every representation request they receive.
Choosing an Agent
Ideally the relationship between an agent and an actor will be one of trust, in which you feel listened to and supported, and confident that you’re being submitted and pushed for work that suits you. In my opinion the most important factor when deciding who you’re going to sign with, is that they are someone you can be open and honest with, and instinctively trust will treat you the same.
Respect Others
Be kind and endear yourself to those you work with from the director to the runners. Everyone on set is important and deserves respect. Becoming known as someone who is rude or difficult to work with isn’t going to serve you well in the future. Make sure that if your name was to come up in a casting discussion, anyone around the table who had worked with you would have positive things to say.
Respect Yourself
That being said, if someone on set or in an audition room disrespects you, insults you, or makes you feel uncomfortable in any way flag it with your agent. We are here to support you, and putting up with mistreatment is not a part of your job description.
Self-Tapes
Self-tapes are the first port of call for the majority of castings now, so get yourself a solid setup. This doesn’t have to involve splashing out on all the gear, but a cheap white background screen and a tripod will give you a strong starting point.
Ask Questions
If something isn’t clear in the instructions ahead of a tape or meeting then ask your agent for clarification. It’s always better to check if you’re unsure that what you’re doing is right, especially with a tape, where redirection from the director is far less common.
Learn
Try to always be working on your craft in some way, shape, or form. Read plays, write scenes, watch as much as you can, attend classes, devise work, add another string to your bow by learning a new skill or accent. Becoming fully competent in just one new accent will massively open up the roles that you can be seen for, so it’s an immensely useful skill to work on.
Headshots
A headshot is not a profile picture, and acting is not modelling. Choosing a shot in which you feel you look your best isn’t necessarily going to be as advantageous as choosing one that reflects you the most truthfully. Take advice from others, ideally your agent or other industry professionals. And trust their opinion on which shots they believe best communicate who you are. Most photographers will offer multiple final shots, so it’s okay to come to a compromise if there’s a photo you are particularly attached to. But always keep in mind the purpose that a headshot serves.
