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There are many ways that people hold their sides (the short portion of the script they read) during an audition. Some people always memorize their sides, but even if you have know your lines, you should always have the sides in your hands in case you get stuck during your audition.

Getting Stuck

This happens to everyone. You think you have your lines down, and then for some reason, in the middle of a read, you go blank. When this happens, you will just be in a daze trying to regroup and remember your next lines.

Always Have Your Sides in Your Hands

By holding your sides in your hand, you can simply glance over, see the words you have forgotten and continue without missing a beat.

You Aren’t Hired Because You Memorized Your Lines for the Audition

People are not hired because they have their lines memorized for the audition. People are hired because they look right for the role, make interesting choices for their character and make their lines sound conversational.

So, don’t think that you have a better chance of booking the job because you are trying to show off your memorization skills.

Actually, when your lines are memorized, people will think that this is as good as the read gets.

If you are very familiar with your lines but need to quickly glance at the sides, then people will realize
that your read will get even better as you get your lines memorized.

Learn How to Memorize a Script

Here is a great video that will help you memorize your lines.

Do Actors Have to Memorize Lines for an Audition?

You can order and watch this video over and over.

10 Secrets to Memorizing Your Lines Video

https://ca166.infusionsoft.com/app/storeFront/showProductDetail?productId=256

Let others know what techniques you use when using sides at an audition. Leave a comment on:
www.facebook.com/howtomodel  

You can also leave a comment below.

Some actors and models think they can book acting and modeling jobs by sitting at home and wait for their cell to ring.

The fact is that no matter how talented you are, if you are not proactive and aren’t working at getting jobs, it can be very hard to have success.

It is not necessarily the most talented person who books the most acting or modeling jobs, but instead, it is the one who is very talented, but is proactive at getting the work.

Sure, at some point, after you have been established, you can have your agent and or manager help you find auditions or bookings, but until that time is is so important to be work hard at getting the work.

If You Have an Agent do Actors and Models Still Need to Hustle?

Yes, even if you have an agent, you want to market yourself.

You can help your agent by trying to get work on your own and then send the booking through your agent.

Quick Story

I had been traveling and did not have a chance to look at my emails for around 10  hours to see if I had any auditions or jobs.

I quickly checked my emails and noticed that a casting director was sending out information for a TV commercial audition. I emailed my information. But, I heard nothing.

I knew the audition was happening the next day, so I sent another email late morning, and when I checked my emails again, I noticed that I was granted an audition. I had  3 hours to get ready, work on the copy and travel to the casting director’s office.

Later that evening, I got a call from the casting director saying that I had booked the commercial for the following day.

I spent a lot of time that evening studying the script, and began traveling out of state the following morning at 5:30 AM for the shoot.

It was a great day. This was a political spot, and they also asked me to do hand modeling for the second TV commercial for the politician.

All of this happened because I worked hard at making sure I was submitted for the project, followed up when I did not hear anything and made sure I got to the audition on time.

This is How You Have Success

Going the extra mile, working hard at getting the work, continuing to study and work on your craft, read books, practice and make sure you are ready when the opportunities happen is how you have success.

Learn How to Get More Acting and Modeling Jobs

Here is a great blog teaching you how to get more acting and modeling
work.   https://www.howtoactandmodel.com/find-work-in-small-markets/

What Have You Done to Get More Acting and or Modeling Jobs?

Share with others both here and on my facebook.com/howtomodel page what you have done to help you book more jobs.

I was recently asked to help find talent for a few business video projects. I had the chance to get a glimpse into the life of an agent. It was a great experience for me.

I always knew that agents work incredibly hard, but it was so interesting to see how much detailed work goes into finding talent for a project.

Make Life Easier For Your Agent

There were some things that talent did that made my life much easier, and some things that made things difficult.

After this experience, I imagined how an agent would react to the ways talent responded to my job offering. Some talent did things that would definitely  ingratiate themselves to the agent, and some things that actors did would definitely turn some agents off.

All actors and models must understand that we have human and business relationship with our agent. They are not robots.

The Industry Has Changed

It is true, that in today’s world, agents do things very differently. When I first started in the acting and modeling industry,

agents would personally meet with casting directors, photographers, art and creative directors at advertising agencies and producers. They

would show them their actors head shots/resumes and or commercial photos/comp cards and talk about the talent.

As you know, today, everything is done electronically.

What Has Not Changed

What has not changed is that actors and models still need to have a great working relationship with our agent.

Having great communication is paramount.

Being able to communicate with your agent is crucial

So, watch this video and learn 4 things that you can do to help your agent get you more work.

Leave a comment and let others know what you have done that has helped an agent get you more work.

Feel free to share this link throughout your social media platforms so your friends will also get this
helpful information.

https://www.howtoactandmodel.com/4-things-you-can-do-to-help-your-agent-get-you-more-work/

Can’t wait to talk with you again soon.

Aaron

It is very exciting to get news about an audition or go-see (the audition for models.)
But there is a problem and you aren’t sure if you can ask your agent this question.

When is it OK to Ask Your Agent for a Favor

I was recently in a situation where I was told about a go-see for a great modeling job. It paid thousands of dollars and I knew it would be a lot of fun to work on. Here was the issue. I was available for the day of the go-see and I was also open on the shoot date. But, I had a conflict with my scheduled time.

The casting directors studio was around 2.5 hours away, so I did not have a lot of leeway with the times.
So, I decided to get back in touch with the agent and let her know that I definitely wanted to attend, but that I needed to change my appointment time. The only time I could attend is if I were the first person seen. I was still cutting things a little close, but that would be the only way I could attend and make it back home for my other appointment.

Are Agents Going to Be Upset With This Request?
Never Be Afraid to Ask

Before You Contact Your Agent

Before you quickly contact your agent, keep in mind what you are asking the agent to do. He or she will now have to call the casting director, explain the situation. Your agent is asking the casting director to either change someone else’s time, or slow up the casting.

I understand, just moving one person around is not a big deal, but if there are a lot of actors and models requesting a change, it is not a great situation for the casting director.

So, I don’t take this request lightly. I am assuming it is a pain for the agent, but if I don’t ask, then I will have to decline the go-see.

They might be upset, but that is OK. This is a legitimate request, and the only way you will know if you can attend the go-see is by asking.

The best thing to do, is know that you are asking the agent for a favor. If he or she says no, then that is fine. Don’t get angry with the agent. Remember, the agent is juggling my people at one time. If the agent agrees to request a time change (which the casting director might not agree to) then make sure you tell the agent how much you appreciate him or her doing that for you.

Whenever you ask an agent to do something for you, it might not seem like a big deal to you, but it might be for the agent. Agent’s are dealing with so many details at once. I get it, that is their job, but that does not mean that it might not feel like a pain for them to add something else to their list of things to do.

So, if you ever need something from an agent – always ask, but understand, your request might be denied – and that is OK.

If you have ever asked an agent to do something for you, share it with others below.
And, feel free to share this throughout your social media platforms so others can learn from my experience.

This is When You Have to Say No to An Agent

Here is another helpful vlog to watch
https://www.howtoactandmodel.com/need-say-no-agent/

Take care.

Aaron

 

Life Altering Conversation

We all have different people who have greatly influenced  our lives. Sometimes people don’t even intend or try to have a major impact, but perhaps something they say or do can be life altering. The late actor John Mahoney had a major influence on the way I live my life.

Suspect

Back in the late 1980’s I was working on the set of the feature film Suspect.  had a life changing conversation with the amazingly talented and a more incredible person, John Mahoney. This man actually started acting at 37. He worked on so many projects, but was most well-known for playing the dad on the TV show Frazier. He also worked on Broadway.

In this video I share a story about me meeting and having an impactful talk with him. John Mahoney was such a kind and humble person.

I was very sad to hear that he recently passed away.

Although it was a conversation that took place more than 30 years ago, it still resonates with me and greatly influenced the way I have lead my life.

Hope you enjoy my story.

If there is someone who changed your life, please share the story below.

Film:
There’s Always One    Lead              Director  George Massimillo
Don’t Panic                  Lead               Director Bobby Reif
Dealer 9263                 Lead               Director  Yazmine Mazboudi

TV: 
Cursed: The Bell Witch            Principal          A&E

Do you live in a small market, and can’t find acting or modeling jobs?

What is a Small Market?

A small market is any state outside of, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and perhaps Atlanta.

Most people think that there are no acting or modeling jobs available if you live in a small market.

However, you will find there are plenty of great jobs to be found in small markets. The trick is learning how to find them.

Whom Should You Contact?

Watch the video blog, and you will see that two people you want to market yourself to are the art and creative directors at ad agencies.

Additional Video Blog to Watch

3 Steps to Getting Acting and Modeling Jobs No Matter Where You Live

An industry professional living in a small market, does not mean that he/she are any less talented or creative then those living in New York or Los Angeles.

The same holds true for actors and models. I have had the privilege to work on some amazing acting and modeling jobs with incredibly talented actors, models, photographers, directors, art and creative directors who chose to live in a small market.

Finding acting and modeling jobs in small markets does not take magic. You just need to know where to look.

Watch This Video to Learn:

How to Get Work in Small Markets

Watch this video and learn step-by-step how to find acting and modeling jobs in small markets.
In addition, you will learn about interesting jobs that you probably didn’t even know exist.

Along with the video, which can be streamed or downloaded and watched 24/7 without wifi, you will also receive over 120 links that will help you find work.

Bonuses

  • Receive over 120 links that can help you find work
  • Get the entire Power Point from the video to view again and again

Do you want more acting and modeling information?

I put together a checklist of the top five things all actors must do before they step foot into a casting director’s office.

Many people don’t know what they should or should not place on their acting resume.  And, lot’s of people have no idea how important an acting resume can be for an actor, but for a reason that will surprise you.

If you are just getting started in the acting industry then you won’t have any credits to place on an acting resume. Don’t worry about that. No one is born with a great resume. It takes time to build up a strong resume. So, if you are beginning or have not gotten many credits, it’s OK. I will teach you one thing to place on your resume that will be loved by agents and casting directors.

Watch This Video
How to Get Acting Jobs to Help Build Your Resume


Watch This Video
You Should Scrap Your Resume if This is Not Included

This was from a commercial modeling ad that Aaron Marcus was cast in
You will be shocked to learn this about a resume

You’ll be surprised that even with absolutely no credits on your resume, there is important information that can still get you called in for an audition or even a booking.

Special Skills

If you have unique special skills, always list them on your resume. Do you speak a foreign language, play an instrument, drive a stick shift, have a valid passport, do martial arts, sing, dance, draw, are you athletic (list the activities), ride a bike, jog, can contort your body to fit into a suitcase, do magic tricks, licensed paramedic/EMT, doctor, etc… These are a few of the many things you can place on your resume which can be incredibly helpful to you.

Sometimes casting directors need to find people with special skills and when they see it listed on your resume, then you can be brought in for an audition or even booked for a job.

The Most Important Part of Your Resume

Be honest when creating your resume. I have heard about actors lying on their resume. They think that no one will know if you add in a credit about a project you never worked on. If it is a theater production, then it could be hard for others to know if you really were cast in the play.

I think that is a really bad idea. Not only is lying to others a horrible way to run your business, but it is also unnecessary. You are not getting brought in to read for a part because of a play you were in. It is because you look right for the role.  So, it is always best to be honest when listing your acting experiences.

Classes

If you don’t have much in the way of credits, if you can at least list some good classes you have taken with well respected teachers, then that can be incredibly helpful. That will allow the casting director to see that you are just getting started, but at least you have had some really good training. And, knowing who you studied with might allow him or her to bring you in for a read.

When you list your training, make it specific. Don’t just write “acting class.” Make it specific. “Acting for the Camera”, Improve, etc… That way people will know exactly what you have studied.

If you want to learn step by step how to create an Effective Resume then you need to watch this video

 Create an Effective Resume – With Little to No Experience Video

When you watch this video you will learn what:

  • Information you absolutely need to have listed on your resume
  • Specific information you never want to have listed on your resume
  • Size and font style industry professionals expect to see on a resume
  • How to place one special item on your resume that will make it stand out
  • What you can place on your resume if you have little to no experience
  • The best way to attach your resume to your head shot
  • How you can easily update your resume

BONUS

Order this video today and receive

Step-By-Step list of how to easily place a photo on your Microsoft Word created resume
The Power Point used in this workshop

Order the Create an Effective Resume Video Today

You can start learning how to create your resume and receive the bonuses by clicking here.

As an acting and modeling career coach and guest speaker, one of the most frequent questions I receive is: “do actors need to memorize lines before an audition?” Even though this is a pretty simple and straightforward question, the answer is actually rather complicated.

If the casting director says that all actors need to be off-book for the audition, then the answer is simple – you need to memorize your sides.

But you will find that most of the time, it is not mandatory for actors to have their lines memorized for the initial read.

So, if you are at an audition where you don’t have to be off-book, is there an advantage to having your lines memorized? Will being off book impress casting directors and give you a greater chance of booking the role?

The Answer Is…

The answer is no. Casting directors realize that you will learn your lines before the call back or shoot. Therefore, being a quick study and knowing your lines for the audition does not give you an advantage over the other actors.

If you can learn your lines and have them really solid for the audition, then, absolutely you should memorize lines before an audition. But, remember, you don’t get any extra points for having them memorized.

What’s Important

What is most important during an audition is having the ability to say your lines in a fluent, interesting, unique and conversational way. If you are not fully off book for the audition, there is a technique you should always be use. This allows you to consistently look at the reader or other actor during your read and periodically glance over at your sides to grab a few words.

Some actors try and show off their memorization skills by not even having the sides in their hands when auditioning. If you go with this approach, make sure you understand the risk, which is that your audition could blow up if you forget your lines.

This is what could happen if you try to memorize lines before an audition but don't do a good job
Don’t let forgetting your lines blow up your audition

Even when you think you have everything memorized, while you are in the middle of an audition, sometimes things happen and you could forget a word. Or, you might find your brain searching for the word, and even if you find it, your read will not be smooth.

Without the sides easily available, your audition will come to a screeching halt. That is not a good way to impress industry professionals.

Safety First

Even if I have things memorized, I always have the sides in my hand, just as a safety net.

There is another reason why it is not necessary to have your lines fully memorized. When auditioning off book, the casting director thinks that your preparation is fully completed and your read is as good as it gets.

The reality is that quite often we receive our lines the day/night before or sometimes the morning of the audition. That does not give us a tremendous amount of time to prepare.

However, if you give a great read, but are still referring to the sides periodically, they will think that the audition was amazing, and also think how much better it will be once it is fully committed to memory.

So, don’t stress out if your lines are not committed to memory for an audition. Be incredibly familiar with the lines, but feel free to use your sides when needed.

Want to Learn One Great Way to Memorize Your Lines? Watch this video blog.

Looking to Learn More about if You Should Memorize Lines Before an Audition and Memorization in General?

  • Here is a great video blog about memorization:  https://www.howtoactandmodel.com/need-memorize-lines-audition/

  • A Must Watch Video – 10 Secrets to Memorizing Your Lines

  • Here is a great workshop video called 10 Secrets to Memorizing Lines
    • Memorizing lines can be difficult. Learn 10 great ways to memorize your lines.
    • Order this video today and receive these 4 bonuses:
      • The Power Point used for the Webinar
      • Great web site that will help you learn the pronunciation of any words you are
        unsure how to pronounce
      • You can purchase a great app to help with memorizing lines
      • A great voice app that will help you practice your lines

Going to a film, TV or commercial audition can be a lot of fun. It can also be an extremely stressful. Sometimes it can be even more stressful than getting booked and working on the set.

That is why it is so important not worry about booking the TV, film, commercial or voice over project you are auditioning for. Just do everything you can to enjoy spending those few moments – acting.

By not even thinking about booking the job, you will find that it will relax you more. When there is no job on the line, there is so much less pressure.

Not trying to book the acting job will help you relax

And, when you look at auditioning as a great way to connect with a casting director, then you can think of auditioning as a way of making a small deposit at the bank. Sometimes it takes a lot of auditions before you actually book a job.

Another advantage to auditioning that has nothing to do with booking the job is knowing that every time you get the opportunity to read for a casting director, he or she gets the chance to see your acting skills and gets to know you better.

This is how you build up a relationship with casting directors. It allows the casting director to request you for future auditions.

You Should Do This at Every Audition

There is a casting director whom I have auditioned for a number of times. I never booked a role with her. However, one day my agent called to tell me that I had been booked for a TV show without even having to audition.

It was a co-starring role. After auditioning with the casting director many times, she was very familiar with my work. That allowed her to convince the director and producers that I would be great for the role.

So, if you don’t get the booking, there are many other benefits to auditioning.

All Successful Actors Use This Audition Technique

Having said all of this, you also need to have the skills to give a great audition. You need to learn how to prepare and how to deliver an audition that really stands out.

This is why I created the How to Prepare Before Your Audition Video

I had the opportunity to interview Philip Hernández and he shares his knowledge and vast experiences for preparing and auditioning for TV, film and theater.

The best way to learn how to prepare for an audition is to learn from a very successful actor who is also currently auditioning. By watching this video you will learn great strategies in preparing before your audition. Everything from the questions you need to ask your agent before accepting the project to the research that needs to be done before looking at the material to what should be done once you begin studying your lines.

Philip is an audition coach and working actor in New York City. He uses his 30 years experience on stage and on camera to teach the real world skills you need to book the jobs you want.

His recent TV appearances include a recurring role on the Fox series “Gotham,” guest star roles on “Blue Bloods” and “The Blacklist”, and roles on “Nurse Jackie” and “The Mysteries of Laura.” Other television includes “Elementary,” “Damages,” “Person of Interest,” “Hostages,” “Law and Order,” “All My Children,” “Made in Jersey,” “Ugly Betty,” “One Life to Live,” and “Loving and Another World.”

Philip is also the only man in Broadway history to play both Jean Valjean and Inspector Javert in “Les Misérables.” He created principal roles in the original Broadway casts of “Kiss of the Spider Woman” and Paul Simon’s “The Capeman.” He has performed in national and international tours and at many of our country’s most prestigious regional theaters.

This video will give you some real insights on how to get ready before your audition.

When actors and models receive a notice that we have gotten a booking, it is a very exciting. Booking jobs can be very hard and to hear that we got cast, helps make all of the hard work we have done worthwhile. That is why it is so hard to say no to an agent after getting a booking.

(I auditioned for the Netflix show House of Cards 15 times over two years before booking a recurring role.)

Aaron in his recurring role on House of Cards
Aaron working with Ellen Burstyn on House of Cards

However, there are times, when it is essential that we say no and turn the job down.

This can be such a hard decision. Some actors and models are concerned that if they say no to a booking the agent will release them.

Or, that the agent will be angry them and not submit them as often as before.

modeling job, Aaron Marcus, anger
Aaron Marcus in an angry modeling job

Both of those situations are possible. However, as much fun it is to work on a set or with a photographer, there is nothing more important then living your life by your beliefs and convictions.

If there is a product, company or project that you don’t want to promote, support or be a part of, then you need to say no.

If gambling is against your beliefs or you don’t want to promote selling cigarettes, then simply thank your agent for the opportunity, but explain to him/her why you need to turn it down.

This is your life. You never want to work on a project that you regret for the rest of your life.

It is so important that if your agent tells you about an audition or go-see, make sure you find out what the project is about. If it is something you don’t want to work on or support, just tell your agent. Never attend the casting, book the job, and then tell you agent that you are turning it down. That will make you and your agent look bad.

If your agent does not understand and is threatening to drop you as a client, then it might be time to look for a different agent.

Watch This Video: Secrets to Finding an Agent and Get Them to Work for You

All great agents understand that we all have certain beliefs and need to make good decisions for ourselves. The agent might try and convince you to do the job, and that is fine. For instance, if you don’t want to shoot a cigarette ad, your agent could suggest that you do the ad and use your earnings to make a donation to the Cancer Society. But, in the end, it is your decision.

Just remember, this is your life and your decision.

You can learn more ways to get acting and modeling jobs on your own by watching this video blog.

https://www.howtoactandmodel.com/taking-control-career-market-yourself/

Share with others if you have ever turned down a job – and why.

Post it on http://www.facebook.com/howtomodel

or on the bottom of this page.

If you ever get the opportunity to work on a commercial modeling job, you will be asked to sign a model a modeling contract on the set.

It is called a model release form.

This is a legal document that gives the photographer permission to use your image.

The model release form has to be signed.

Watch Out

A modeling job that was only used in a magazine

In every model release form you will find specific words giving the photographer permission to use your image through any media or for any purpose. This might not be the way you or your agent negotiated the usage.

If you were told that the ad will run in a magazine add, then that is the only way the ad can run.

If you sign the release form as is, without making the proper changes, then your image can be used in high exposure formats (billboards, posters, on the side of a bus or even on a TV commercial) without you or your agent receiving any additional money.

You can read more about how to best handle the release form by looking at page 74 in my book
How to Become a Successful Actor and Model

I know models who have lost thousands of dollars because they did not know how to make the proper changes in the model release form and signed the document as it was written.

Always be careful when signing the model release form. Get the right information to protect yourself and your agent and make sure you receive all of the money you deserve.

Get More Modeling Jobs By Changing the Model Release Form

You can learn how to get more modeling jobs and representation by watching this video
https://www.howtoactandmodel.com/commercial-photos

Share with others on my facebook.com/howtomodel
page or below, if you ever had an interesting experience with a model release form.

 

True False: Are You Too Old to Model?

By Aaron Marcus
For Backstage

Have you ever looked at an ad and thought, “I’d love to get into commercial modeling, but I think I’m too old”? Well, think again!

Unlike fashion modeling—which requires women be between 5’9-6’0 feet tall with 34/24/34 measurements, and men to be 6’0-6’2 feet tall with a 40 jacket size—commercial modeling is open to a much more diverse array of people. It’s rare for fashion models to have real success without a very specific look desired by the agency, and if a person older than 21 and hasn’t already been working in the fashion industry for a few years, it will be very difficult to get signed by an agency and hired for fashion shows.

But if you don’t have any interest in working as a fashion model or, like most of us, you weren’t born with the DNA and stats needed to work in the fashion industry, I have some great news for you.

Meet commercial modeling: a whole division of the industry that doesn’t have height, weight, or age restrictions. Where all types of people are needed. Where kids, teens, adults, seniors, and even infants are hired. That offers many categories and roles. If you can believably look like the doctor, nurse, grandparent, banker, real estate agent, athlete, yoga instructor, student, mom, teacher, biker, patient, etc., you will be considered for commercial modeling work.

Commercial models are the “real” looking people seen in virtually every non-fashion magazine. Even if you live in a small market, chances are commercial models are needed and hired for jobs. Unlike acting jobs, commercial modeling bookings typically only last a few hours. Full day bookings are wonderful but it’s more common to be booked for 2-4 hours, which means you can take a few half day’s from work, go to the shoot, and get on with your day!

One of the tricks to getting noticed by photographers and art/creative directors at ad agencies is to create powerful commercial photos. Instead of just standing in front of a camera wearing a suit with a cell phone in your hand, make sure your photos look like ads (minus logos and brand names).

You also want to show a variety of expressions and emotions in your test shots to indicate that you can model for a variety of brands and have range. If you’re not sure where to start, here are some quick tips for great techniques to use when working with a photographer.

So if modeling interests you but you’re concerned about your age, don’t be. There is work out there for you, I promise.

 

 

How to Nail Every Shot in a Commercial Shoot
By Aaron Marcus
Written for Backstage

 

I have always viewed working with a still photographer in commercial modeling photos as an acting job without words. The best commercial models (who are generally actors) not only have the skills to show believable expressions, but also have the ability to offer plenty of layers of expressions and emotions.

One of the first things a commercial model must do before beginning a shoot is to ask the photographer what types of emotions are needed. While many photographers understand this type of process and love working this way, you may sometimes run into a photographer who is not. For instance, if your role is a doctor and you are told to smile, the question to ask would be, “What is making you smile?” Your smile will look very different if you saved someone’s life, stopped accepting insurance, or won a crazy malpractice case. If the photographer says, “I don’t know why the doctor is smiling, just smile,” then you need to make the decision for yourself. Just like with any acting audition, it is always better to make a definitive choice. The more generic the choice, the less interesting the shot will be.

After deciding on the emotion needed and before the photographer begins to shoot, ask him or her to wait one second. Then physically turn your head slightly away from the camera so the photographer understands you are preparing, think of a real experience in your life to give you the emotion needed, quietly say a word or two or make a sound that will strongly connect you with the experience, and then look up into the camera or wherever the photographer has asked you to look. After the shot is taken, look away and repeat the same process, but perhaps with a slightly different experience. This will allow you to tap into strong emotions and feelings and always show interesting and believable variations of different expressions.

The best way to learn how you can easily and quickly tap into these needed emotions is to practice. Here is how.

  1. Look through magazines for ads featuring your type
  2. On a sheet of paper, make a list of the types of expressions you see the models showing in columns. For example, have columns with the following types of emotions: Happy Sad Sick    –   Frustrated   – Excited etc…

Then underneath each expression write down a more specific description. If the person feels sick because they have a horrible headache, write down headache. If the person is frustrated because her computer keeps freezing, write that concept down.

Then you want to think of real experiences in your life that will give you that type of recall. The next step is to find a word or two or a sound that will allow you to relive that moment.

Once you have practiced this, get anyone with a cell phone to take 7–10 pictures of you showing each emotion. Look at the shots. If you believe the expressions, you can use this for every commercial modeling job, go-see (the model’s audition), and test shot. If you don’t quite believe the expression, then you need to think of a different experience. And if you are ever asked to show an expression that you never experienced, then think of an experience that will give you a similar feeling.

Using this method will allow you to always tap into whatever emotion is required when working with a photographer. Being able to show many layers of expressions and emotions during a photo shoot makes you a very marketable commercial model, and one that photographers will want to hire again and again.

Here is something you need to do at every audition.

When you first arrive at an audition you might be freaking out. That is pretty normal. Even for experienced actors.

You need to use your acting skills and not let that be seen by the casting director or anyone else in the casting room. You want to show the feeling of confidence.

Almost as if it does not matter if you book the job because you know you will be booking something else if this one doesn’t happen.

Now, when you slate, there are many ways to do this. And, there can be many different things that actors are asked to say during a slate.

When you watch this video, you will learn a new way to slate that will be incredibly helpful to you.

Let others know what tricks and tips you have during auditions by leaving a comment below or on my http://www.facebook.com/howtomodel page.

If you have any questions, you can always reach me through my Facebook page or through my web site howtoactandmodel.com

Has this ever happened to you?

Have you ever attended a modeling go-see or a TV, film or voice over audition and found out that the shoot date had changed and now you are not available for the booking?

This has happened to me a few times, and I just experienced it again last week.


It can feel very frustrating. You spend a lot of time preparing for the audition, perhaps you traveled a long distance and incurred travel expenses as well.

There are a number of ways you can deal with this situation. Watch the video and learn how you can turn a frustrating situation into something positive.

If you ever attended an audition or go-see only to find out that you can’t do the job, please share with others on my facebook.com/howtomodel page or leave your message below.

Learning from me and others in my acting and modeling family is why I spend the time creating these vlogs.

Can’t wait to talk again soon.

Aaron

Here is another acting and modeling quick tip.

Have you ever had an audition for a job that you really wanted and could not stop thinking about it after your read?

Constantly thinking about booking the audition
can stress you out.

I always tell both actors and models during my workshops or private online sessions that after an audition, it is helpful to analyze your read, think about what worked, what you would have liked to have done differently, but then let it go. You will see in this video blog that it is not as easy as it sounds to simply let things go.

If you have ever experienced this after an audition, share it with others on facebook.com/howtomodelor on the bottom of this page.

To help others learn more about the industry, share this article throughout your social media platforms.

Two Callback Mistakes Preventing You from Booking the Job

By Aaron Marcus – Written for Backstage

You get the opportunity to audition for a project. Congratulations. Many people don’t realize how difficult it can be just to get an audition. Depending on the location and type of project being cast, it’s not unusual to have 500 to 1500 people submitted for one role with CDs only inviting 30 people to read for the role—just getting the audition is winning!

So now you have a callback, which means you’re being asked to come back and read again. Every situation is different. Maybe they only ask five people to come back. Maybe an actor who didn’t initially audition is brought into the callback. Whatever the case, the callback is an opportunity for the director and others involved with the project to see you in person. Even casting the smallest roles is a huge deal. Everyone wants to make sure you not only can repeat what you did at the audition and make changes to your read if requested, but they also want to make sure that you’re someone they want to work with on a set.

Watch This Video – All Success

Mistake #1
Some actors will show up for their call back without any thought of their original audition. They dress differently or even change hair styles without thinking of the possible consequences.

You want to look the same way you did at the audition. Don’t make any physical changes without first confirming with your agent. I’ve heard from some directors that they loved the person who initially read but with the physical changes the actor made between the audition and callback, they didn’t even recognize the actor nor did they think that the new look fit the character. And suddenly, the actor who was seriously in the running for the part is no longer being considered.

So play it safe: wear the same clothes and sport the same general look at the callback.

WATCH – All Successful Actors Use This Technique During an Audition

Mistake #2
The callback is not the time to show off your range of acting skills. Some actors think the director will be impressed if a very different read is given at the callback but the truth of the matter is that the director liked your read at the audition—that’s why you got the callback.

Read it the same way at the callback. You may be asked to read things differently, but wait until you are asked to make the adjustment.

While the road to booking the job may not be the easiest, if you keep these two common mistakes in mind when you do get a callback, know that you’ll stand out as an actor who delivers what the powers that be are looking for.

Sometimes you will learn that one little thing that you should be doing during an audition, that can make a major change in your read.

 

This technique is simple, and once you learn it, you will quickly understand why it makes so much sense and why it will make your audition so much better.

All successful actors make their audition feel like the scene is actually happening on the set.

You want the casting director and director to believe that they are watching the scene actually happen and not just viewing an audition.

That is why it is so important to use this technique for every audition.

If you have a specific audition technique that you find helpful, share it here. You can also post your technique at http://www.facebook.com/howtomodel

Sometimes we have to do some pretty crazy things in the acting and modeling industry. I was just in that situation and wanted to share it with you.

I have been making the trip from Baltimore, MD to N.Y. for auditions and work since 1989.

Depending on how l travel, it could take me anywhere from 3.5 to 4 .5 hours each way. Whenever I make that trip, it is always a long day at the office.

Many people say that is simply too far to go for an audition, but if you want to be considered for jobs in N.Y. and want agents to keep submitting you for projects there, then you need to say yes to the audition.

Typically, the only time I will turn down an audition or go-see is if I am already booked out the day of the audition or not available on the shoot date.

A few days ago I received an email from an agent about attending a go-see that was happening in Brooklyn.

That is pretty unusual. Most of the casting directors and photographers either rent or have offices in downtown or midtown. Manhattan.

Driving in Manhattan

I decided not to travel to Manhattan and take a subway to Brooklyn, then find my way from the subway station to the casting director’s office.  That sounded like a lot of work.

Driving in Manhattan is not fun. I try to avoid it whenever possible. Not only do you have to deal with crazy traffic, lots of people riding bikes – zipping in and out of lanes, but also there are many people crossing the street looking at their phones and not watching out for cars.

If you are planning on driving to Manhattan, always give yourself a lot of time going through the Lincoln or Holland Tunnel.

Sometimes you can breeze through, or you could be caught in some horrible traffic.

So, I decided to drive straight to Brooklyn. Getting there was fine. Of course there was traffic, but it was not horrible.

Finding parking was not easy, but after driving around for a while I wound up finding street parking in a residential neighborhood.

It was only about a 20-minute walk to the casting office. After being in the car for so long, it felt good to walk a little.

I finally got to the casting directors office and purposely did not sign in as soon as I arrived. I wanted to make sure I dried off a little, combed my hair and mentally prepared to be photographed.

There are forms to be filled out.

Always have your agent’s phone number and e-mail address easily accessible. Quite often this information is requested on the form.

Don’t Waste Your Time

If the go-see is for a pharmaceutical, insurance or fast food restaurant you will typically be asked to write down any jobs you have had within the past 1-5 years for competitors.

I have a list of the pharmaceutical jobs and what type of illness the ad was for on my phone. It makes it very easy to fill the forms out accurately.

If you have done pharmaceutical ads in the past, always ask your agent prior to accepting a go-see what the product is for.

This will help you avoid wasting your time by traveling to a go-see only to find out that you won’t be considered due to a previous booking.

Don’t Be Honest

No matter how tired I might be from a long drive and sitting in traffic, when a photographer or casting director asks me how I am doing, my answer is always the same. “I am great.”

Honestly, they really don’t care how you are doing, and certainly don’t want to hear your problems. They have a lot of work to do to find the perfect person for a job.

So, unless you have a close personal relationship with the photographer or casting director, no matter what is going on with you, you are great.

Ask This Question at a Go-See – Only (Never at an Audition)

The very next thing I do at all go-sees is to ask what the photographer is looking for.

When I get a general response, like, you are happy, sad, concerned, etc… I always follow up with “why?” What is causing me to feel those emotions.

Most of the time I am able to receive some specific information that is invaluable. Without knowing why I am showing certain emotions, how could I possibly give them the look they need.

So, I got some specific details about the look that was needed. It was an interesting type of look that actually required several layers of emotions.

I used the same technique that I teach in my book and during my in-person workshops that allows me to tap into real experiences from my life and show it to the camera.

They Don’t Last Long

The go-see lasted around 2 minutes. The look I gave felt good, – just what I wanted.

Then I said goodbye and started my journey home.

Got a Little Lost

Unfortunately, finding my way back to the car took some time. I couldn’t remember some of the side streets I crossed and a few folks gave me wrong directions. So, I had another nice walk before I found my car.

Real Crazy Time

Now for the trip home. It was CRAZY. The traffic was something I never experienced.

What took me about 20 minutes to drive coming in, took about 2.5 hours leaving Brooklyn.

The traffic was not due to a horrible accident, but this was typical rush hour gridlock.

I was sitting at a Red light. There were so many cars backed up in front of me that I sat through 3 or 4 cycles of the light turning from Red to Green without moving.

I have never been so excited when I finally made it to the New Jersey Turnpike.

In case you ever have to go to Brooklyn, I was just told about a longer route, by going through Staten Island that I will definitely take next time. This is especially true if I am driving anytime around rush hour.

This was a pretty crazy day for 2 minutes in front of a camera. Whether I book the job or not, I am still really glad I made the trip and got to share a fun story with you.

Learn How to Break Into New York with this video

Are Your Expenses Covered When Working on an Out of Town Project?

I would love to hear any crazy stories you can share with others. Leave your experience below.

 

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