The allure of the silver screen is powerful. Very few people haven’t at one time or another dreamt of being a famous actor or movie star. The lights, the glamour and the fame can intoxicate just about anyone. However, the competition for succeeding in film is tough and for every Brad Pitt there are a thousand extras that will never see their name on a marquee. But that harsh reality doesn’t stop hundreds of thousands from trying and if your passion is acting then dig in and get ready by seeking out and attending as many movie casting calls as possible.

Before you begin your ascent up the film ladder make sure to have a professional head shot. Directors, casting agents and talent scouts see hundreds of aspiring actors a day and the chances of them remembering you are slim. With a professional head shot to leave behind with your resume at a casting call you stand a much better chance of getting a call back. It can be expensive to have a professional photographer take your head shot but it is money well spent.

Once you have your head shot and resume you are ready for the casting call experience. Many films are shot and produced in Los Angeles so if your heart is in movies you may want to consider moving to this area. New York City also has plenty of movie production companies and reps from west coast agencies so living in or around Manhattan will give you better access to open movie casting calls. When starting out don’t expect to be fawned over by publicists and talent scouts. No matter how good you were in a high school play the competition for even small rolls in independent films is intense. Thousands of people have the same dream of being a Hollywood star and if you want to make it you need thick skin and nerves of steel.

Luckily film shoots are taking place all the time and talent scouts are always looking out for fresh faces. The opportunities are there, you just have to find them and be persistent. The more movie casting calls you attend the better your chances of landing a role. Having the right attitude, being prompt and polite and showing a willingness to sacrifice will impress directors and increase the likelihood of being remembered when a specific role is available.

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