flossy Jean:  How can I become an actress?

I don't know how to find auditions, how to find agents, or what I need. but acting is my passion. I would really enjoy acting on stage but would prefer screen, as I am very insecure and I think it would build my confident more? if anyone could help i would appreciate it. :)

Sharon:  Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

Start with reading a lot of information on acting, what it takes. Don't spend money on things you are not ready for. Like if you don't know what type of headshots you really need. Wait until you know your type (or sort of know it) and then invest. The Performernation newsletter, articles from Dallas Travers, Abundance Bound and the free seminars they all offer are great. Also, know that everyone is insecure at some point, but get out there and meet people, perform, learn from others. You will never break through if you stay at home. If you really need help, get some help from a professional. 

Many actors have had great success with these free online seminar called webinars. You can get them at http://www.Performerwebinars.com. The same people are part of a discount site for classes to http://www.IndustryDeal.com. You have a lot of work ahead of you, just be careful from getting tips from those who are bitter. I've read a lot of that on here today.

Source(s):

Me, Performerwebinars, Industry Deal

Asker's Comment:

thank you, you have given me a lot of Information that is very useful and has helped me realise that i need to face up and get out there, but that it will take longer than i wish, i won't just get given a part out of no where. I am on the websites now, they are very useful. 
Thank you so much! :D x

Other Answers (2)

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Maren:  Look on line for agents, first you must get head shots. Which are of course pictures of your head that you or your agent send into directors or casting agents. Then you must tell your agent what your looking for. Or even look in the paper start small on the stage and get better then focus on the big screen.

The Colbster:  First you need a head-shot (photograph of your head on a standard piece of paper with your name on the bottom). Start out small with cattle-calls (auditions open for anyone) then work your way up to an agent. Start with a small agent too. (Corgan and Johnson-Atlanta) once you work up a impressive resume, go to a bigger agency (KSR-LA).

Models:  Top-Elizabeth Taylor,  Middle:  Angelina Jolie,  Bottom:  Aishwarya Rai

Steps (Credit: How to be an actress, URL here)

1. 1
   Learn how to act. It seems obvious, but a lot of women gloss over the importance of acting skills because they're used to getting away with things due to their good looks. An attractive appearance may help you get certain roles, but don't let that give you the illusion that you're a good actress. Neglect your acting craft and you will hit a dead end sooner or later.
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2. 2
   Study female roles. This is especially important if you want to be taken seriously as an actress. If you don't choose roles carefully, you'll end up becoming just another pretty, replaceable face. You might have to turn down lucrative roles, but a real actress has to be selective about creating her acting resume and must keep her future in mind.
3. 3
   Learn how to summon emotions without a stimulus. Odds are, you're going to need to play more emotional parts than a man would be asked to. The extent to which viewers can relate to your emotions has a direct effect on your success as an actress.
4. 4
   Be versatile when it comes to your physical appearance. Are you willing to dye your hair, shave your head, put on thirty pounds? Do you really think you'll get the role of an introspective, well-educated librarian if you bounce in with scrunchy blonde hair, a tight top, and pink shorts? Take pride in your ability, and don't let your appearance get in the way.
5. 5
   Know your resources. If you're in NY, NJ, or CT, Show Business Weekly is the best trade publication out there. It is printed bi- monthly, and has a ton of casting calls, information on agents, managers, and casting directors, and new and up to date info on theatres in and around the city. Their website is updated on a daily basis, and is chock full of information. www.showbusinessweekly.com.
6. 6
   Face it, you need an agent. A reputable agent will get you the best auditions. And if you get good auditions, you'll have a better shot at getting the good roles.
7. 7
   Use body movements. It will get you further, and the director will think your a better actress.

For Teenagers

1. 1
   Decide what type of actress you want to be e.g. acting on TV? Theatre? Voice over? Movies?
2. 2
   Be able to act in front of other people. Star by putting on small plays, or do drama in theatre.
3. 3
   Want it more than anything and carry it through think about it before going any further. Is this what you truly want to do? You can't go back after you've started. You can't just think, "Ooh, I want to be a horse vet now!" during your acting career.
4. 4
   Join acting classes and focus.
5. 5
   Take acting classes, or choose Drama for GCSE/A-level if you live in the UK.
6. 6
   When you've finished high school go to a drama college/university.
7. 7
   Once you've graduated from your drama college/university, it would be a good time to get an agent to represent you.
8. 8
   Before you audition, get an agent to find a small role or be an extra so you can get used to the feel of being on a set and acting real emotions. You wouldn't want to freak out when you see a famous actor!
9. 9
   Wait for your agent to find auditions and then attend them. You will be well on your way to achieving your dream! Be patient, it may take 50 auditions until you get a callback!