How to Get Into Acting

Introduction

The secret to getting into acting is easy - just do it! Sanford Meisner once famously said, “Acting is behaving truthfully under imaginary circumstances.” While it sounds straightforward, knowing the right steps to take can help you navigate the world of acting. Generally speaking, the first step to acting would be to start training. This is usually followed by obtaining headshots, auditioning for experience, and getting an agent. Read along as I share insights and some of my own experiences on how to get into acting

Do You Need To Go To Acting School?

I got into acting by coincidence. When I was younger, my mother signed me up for acting class. I was hesitant at first, but it was during these classes that I realized this was something I loved. This led me to joining a film club, taking professional classes at HB Studio and Stella Adler Studio Of Acting, in addition to graduating from Maggie Flanigan Studio’s Professional Actor Training Program.

Acting schools and classes teach a wide variety of skills, such as how to embody different characters, vocal control, movement, and script analysis. It also provides the opportunity to meet like-minded people and industry professionals who can help guide you. Furthermore, these schools and classes will give you the foundational skills needed to feel confident on stage or in front of the camera.

While training lays the groundwork for your skills, gaining practical experience is the next crucial step in launching your acting career.

Do You Need Experience?

One of the most common questions people ask is, "Do you need experience to get into acting?" The short answer is: no. Everyone has to start somewhere, and many successful actors began with little to no experience. When you're starting out, the key is to gain experience wherever you can.

Local theater or improv groups are perfect for beginners. Community theater productions often welcome new talent and can help you understand the basics of performing in front of an audience. Improv groups, on the other hand, teach quick thinking and help build confidence, both of which are crucial in acting.

One of the most rewarding experiences for me has been joining the Impro Comedy Show, where I’ve been able to sharpen my quick thinking and adaptability on stage. Improvisation taught me how to trust my instincts, stay present in the moment, and respond naturally—skills that have been invaluable in my acting career.

Additionally, there are opportunities in student films, independent short films, and background acting. These roles give you practical experience on set, allowing you to observe professional actors and crew members while building your resume. Each opportunity helps you develop and learn new skills, even if you’re starting from scratch. As you start building experience, you'll also need to present yourself professionally to casting directors and agents, and that's where headshots come in.

Do You Need Headshots?

Yes, you absolutely need headshots. A professional headshot is a critical tool for actors because it serves as your visual resume in the industry. Casting directors, agents, and managers will look at your headshot to get a first impression of you, so it needs to represent you well.

When getting your headshots taken, make sure they are high quality and taken by a photographer who specializes in acting headshots. These photos should capture your personality and look. They should also reflect how you actually appear. It’s a good idea to have different looks or expressions in your headshots, such as a commercial headshot, or a theatrical headshot.

At my first headshot session, I remember being nervous. Luckily, the photographer helped me relax and even showed me how to find the right balance between casual and professional. We did multiple looks, from a friendly, approachable vibe for commercials, to a more serious expression for dramatic roles. The difference those photos made was incredible—casting directors started to notice me more, and it boosted my confidence in auditions.

Once you have polished your professional image with the right headshots, it’s time to consider another essential aspect of an actor’s career: finding an agent.

Do You Need An Agent?

Whether or not you need an agent depends on where you are in your acting journey. Agents can be valuable once you’ve built a foundation, as they advocate for you, negotiate contracts, and help you access auditions that might not be publicly available. Their industry connections often open doors that are difficult to access on your own, particularly for larger projects.

Many actors, myself included, initially thrive through self-submission for roles. While I’m not currently represented, I see the potential value in having an agent when the time comes. For instance, I’ve heard from industry friends who landed significant roles thanks to their agents’ efforts—roles they didn’t even know were available. Stories like these remind me that, while I’m content with where I am now, an agent could elevate my career in the future.

For those at a similar stage, I encourage you to focus on gaining experience and creating industry relationships. Take charge of your career, and when you feel ready, explore finding an agent. Whether or not you choose representation right away, staying proactive, persistent, and passionate will serve you well.

Can You Get Into Acting At 30(+)?

Absolutely! Age is just a number in the world of acting. Many successful actors have embarked on their careers later in life, demonstrating that it’s never too late to chase your passion. For example, I started my acting journey when I was younger, but I only began pursuing it more seriously at 30. This shift allowed me to draw on my life experiences, adding depth to my performances and making me more relatable in various roles. I also have friends who started acting in their 30s and are thriving, proving there is always a demand for actors of all ages in commercials, television, theater, and film.

Whether you're 30 or beyond, the process remains the same: focus on training, gain experience, and build your portfolio. Don’t let age hold you back. Instead, leverage it to your advantage by seeking out roles that resonate with your unique background and experiences. The key is to stay persistent, embrace challenges, and continuously hone your craft, no matter where you start.

With this in mind, it’s important to understand that your journey into acting is uniquely yours and there is always an ongoing process of growth in this craft.

Conclusion 

Embarking on a journey into acting is both exciting and challenging. While the paths may vary—whether through acting classes, local theater, or obtaining professional headshots—the most vital step is to take that initial leap. Each audition, performance, and experience enriches your skills and shapes your career. Remember, acting is not just about the destination; it's about the continuous process of growth, self-discovery, and learning. Whether you start at a young age or decide to pursue your passion later in life, staying persistent and passionate will ultimately lead you to success in this dynamic field. Embrace the journey, trust your instincts, and enjoy every moment of your acting adventure.

Do you still have questions or want to see some practical examples? Be sure to see my latest performance, Fade, here. Also, click the links to view my educational background and experience, or my headshots. You can also check out my Backstage profile or IMDB page for more details.

Are you looking for more experience? Check out my upcoming projects—we might need some help!