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Acting Classes by Rose Sanchez  •  last post Aug 4th

Hey everyone! I’ll be a guest on Wednesday the 7th at 6pm EST at David Thompson’s Online acting class. We can meet over there and actually do some fun acting exercises. Check it out! http://www.davidthompsoncoaching.co/ see you on Wednesday!

Tips for Better Headshots by Tammy Hunt  •  last post Aug 4th



1. Go pro. Spend money—it’s worth it. Go to a professional who is trained, understands lighting, and takes headshots for a living, not some friend who happens to have a decent camera who “sorta knows a little about photography.” 

2. Opt for personality over glamour. Make sure it looks like you. Chill with the airbrushing. Casting directors expect you to look just like your headshot and will not be happy when you show up looking totally different or 10 years older. 

3. Remember: It’s all about the eyes. Just like with on-camera acting, it’s all about the eyes and what’s happening behind them. It’s your closeup, your moment. Your eyes should be perfectly in focus, alive, and energized, not dead and glazed over. 

4. Pay attention to framing, lighting, and background. In general, a good headshot is chest up with good lighting on your face, and no strong dramatic shadows, unless you are going in for “The Phantom of the Opera.” Three-quarter shots are good for print, and extreme close-ups are good for, well, nothing. 

5. Consider natural light vs. studio. Some photographers do both, as they offer a different look and feel. Natural light gives a very real, “film” look, which I prefer. Studio lighting tends to be a little more polished, with a more neutral backdrop. Both can be wonderful. If you are more of a sitcom actor, perhaps a well-lit studio headshot is more suited for you. 

6. Don’t go crazy with clothing and props. I once saw a headshot of a guy with a bird on his head. Why? Because he wanted to stand out. Let’s not get crazy here. Keep it simple and classy. Professionalism not desperation gets you noticed. A simple, solid shirt with a little texture that fits you. 

7. Go easy with the makeup. Yes, lots can be done with retouching. There is no need to put on tons of makeup. You want to look like yourself on your best day and not look like you tried too hard. Do your hair the way you would for every audition. 

- Matt Newton is one of the most sought-after on-camera acting coaches. His clients include Tony winners, Emmy award winners, and well-known actors from film and TV.

#headshot #actor

Joan Chen Has Always Been a Movie Star. Hollywood Is Finally Catching Up by Pat Alexander  •  last post Aug 2nd

https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/story/joan-chen-profile-didi-awards-insider

Heya, just wanted to say hi and tell you a little bit about myself ! by Rose Sanchez  •  last post Aug 2nd

hey guys, I just wanted to introduce y’all to what I do and would like to connect with ya’. I’m really interested in any locals is Lansing, Michigan. But I’m open to Collab from afar as well.

www.imdb.me/RoseSanchezActress

Actors, Thinking About Changing Your Name? by Tammy Hunt  •  last post Aug 1st


“It used to be that changing an overly ethnic or difficult-to-pronounce name was virtually essential for Hollywood success. Now, in a way, the reverse is true. Networks and platforms are looking for authenticity, as well as for the opportunity to tell stories from voices and perspectives not often heard. A name that suggests cultural specificity can actually be helpful, given the scrutiny regarding parts being played by actors of appropriate ethnicity.”

– President of a TV Production Company

“I once hired a guy whose name I not only couldn’t remember — but couldn’t pronounce. I avoided him at all costs and vowed never to hire him again.”

– Reality Show Producer

“I have never asked a client to create a ‘brand new’ name. I have, however, suggested some folks reconsider their given names, as whatever they were currently using sounded generic, or even had a certain falsity to it. Clearly Cary Grant, Marilyn Monroe, and Lady Gaga have done all right, but my feeling is if people are comfortable with what their parents named them, then so am I.”

– A Talent Agent

“I love the fact that we live in a day and age where an actor does NOT have to change his/her/their name, because that’s what the industry mandates. I think it’s important for actors to be true to themselves and authentic with who they are. That being said, I have many clients who do have ‘stage names’ and I love that too. And there can be many reasons for that — privacy, for one. My only suggestion is that if you are going to change your name, you do a thorough Google search on that new name BEFORE you change it.”

– Liza Anderson, Owner Anderson Group Public Relations

“I fully support changing the name if it suits and supports the creative process. Being an actor is a creative endeavor. Performance, delivery, and marketing are all part of the artistic process. If you have a challenging name and you have something you want to use that is easy to remember or visually appealing, then there’s nothing wrong with creating something new. When marketing a film, all components matter.”

– Jen Ditchik, Vice President, Strategy & Innovation at WC+A

Feed your wallet, your resume, or your soul. by Tom Lapke  •  last post Aug 1st

I recently responded to a question in this lounge about when you should and should not accept roles. The person who asked is in a different international market than I am familiar with, where they have seemingly been finding a lot of success. My advice was the same advice I give any professional actor. A role should do at least one of the three following:


FEED YOUR WALLET (it pays well, but does not necessarily excite you artistically or add much to your resume - ex. commercials - which you don't list on your resume, instead putting "conflicts available upon request")
FEED YOUR RESUME (it might not excite you as an artist or pay well, but it will look very good on your resume - ex. doing a small part in a play with a well-known director) 
FEED YOUR SOUL (it doesn't pay well, and it doesn't really help your resume much, but dammit if it doesn't excite you as an artist - ex. a beautifully written student film with a really great part for you)

This is obviously a guide post and where you are in your career will dictate how true it is (if you are brand new, take everything you can before getting picky), but it is great to see even Indiana Solo himself is not above taking a role he thinks is silly because it pays well.
https://variety.com/2024/film/news/harrison-ford-red-hulk-acting-captain-america-brave-new-world-1236091166/

"How's it going, royal ugly Godot?" by Tom Lapke  •  last post Aug 1st

I love everything about this.

What are some other duos you would like to see in this famous play?

https://playbill.com/article/keanu-reeves-and-alex-winter-set-excellent-...

Looking to help by Andrew Horvitz  •  last post Aug 1st

does anyone here have a project in Southern California they need help acting in.

I’m willing to help.

Actors, I'm curious. How do you analyze performances you watch? by Amanda Toney  •  last post Jul 30th

The best way to hone your craft is to learn from other actors. I'm curious from our acting community - when you are watching TV or film for the first time are you able to watch the story as is, or are you analyzing the acting performances throughout? 

Only 24 Hours Left To Register For The Global Film & TV Production Summit! by Sam Sokolow  •  last post Jul 30th

Stage 32ers! You only have 24 hours left to register for tomorrow's FREE virtual Stage 32 Global Film & TV Production Summit!


Over 2,000 people have already registered to join top producers, film commissioners, and workforce development executives for a panel and Q&A where we'll discuss the current state of production, the need for more trained crew than ever, the types of jobs that are available for you and how Stage 32 Certification is a solution that film commissions and businesses around the world are already relying on.

If you want to work in film or TV production you do not want to miss this FREE virtual event on Wednesday, July 31st at 11am PT (you can join live from anywhere in the world at that time).
Here’s a link where you can register: https://www.stage32.com/education?h=stage-32-presents-2024-stage-32-certification-virtual-open-house

See you there tomorrow!

Helpless After Audition- When Should You Actually Hear Results by Aaron Marcus  •  last post Jul 30th

Helpless After Audition- When Should You Actually Hear Results

https://youtu.be/eTuKlke9jzU

After actors audition, how long does it take for production to make decisions on whom to call back, pin or book? Watch the video and find out: https://youtu.be/eTuKlke9jzU

For those on the production side of the industry, let us know the process and how long it takes for decisions to be made.

Only 2 days left to register! by Sam Sokolow  •  last post Jul 29th

The Stage 32 Global Film & TV Production Summit is only 2 days away! 


Don't miss your chance to register for this FREE event on Wednesday, July 31st at 11am PST (you can join live at that time from wherever you are in the world). 

I have the honor of moderating the panel with top producers, film commissioners, and workforce development executives who will discuss the current state of production, both globally and locally, the growing need for trained workforce all over the world, and how Stage 32 Certification is solving that need and giving you the chance to get trained and get to work. There will also be a Q&A where you can ask the panel your questions about your career trajectory or a project that you are planning to produce. 

Here is the link where you can register for the FREE event now: https://www.stage32.com/education?h=stage-32-presents-2024-stage-32-certification-virtual-open-house

July Filmmakers Club Week 5: Staying Motivated Against All Odds by Ashley Renee Smith  •  last post Jul 29th

Hey, Actors!

As we wrap up July Filmmakers Club, we hope that you'll keep pushing yourselves to learn, grow, & connect with other creatives around the world! In today's blog, we're talking about how to stay motivated against all odds! Learn more here >> https://www.stage32.com/blog/july-filmmakers-club-week-5-staying-motivated-against-all-odds-3809

Need a thoughtful answer from relevant experts. by Emmad Butt  •  last post Jul 29th

A phase comes in an actor's career when he is neither an immature nor fully successful. Yet the roles he is offered are not always what may upgrade his profile. So he very cautiously accepts roles, sometimes even leave the characters which hamper the growth.

I need to know what kind of strategy should be adopted that the journey to the Lead roles is not interrupted ?

If you want your self-tapes watched, this *MUST* be present...#short - TipsOnActing by Florin Şumălan  •  last post Jul 28th

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/z3O8_gYboKg

Casting notice - los angeles by Shadow Dragu-Mihai, Esq., Ipg  •  last post Jul 27th

Casting notice posted on S32 at
https://www.stage32.com/jobs/62331/Casting-Notice

Posting this here as my impression is that actors don't often look at the jobs section here.

GAMING INDUSTRY: History repeats itself, because no one listens by Geoff Hall  •  last post Jul 26th

Whilst I’ve just posted something in the Screenwriting Lounge about the use of AI, 
LINK: https://www.stage32.com/lounge/screenwriting/Is-the-AI-Bubble-About-to-Burst-in-Hollywood-2 

And some say we just have to embrace it, because it’s already a part of the industry furniture, others in the Gaming Industry don’t seem to have listened nor learnt from last year’s strike. Here’s a headline from Screendaily that caught my eye.

SAG-AFTRA calls strike against top video game companies over AI concerns

“We’re not going to consent to a contract that allows companies to abuse A.I. to the detriment of our members,” said SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher.

And so, there appears to be another strike in the offing. What are your thoughts about the union wanting “a new agreement to protect members’ voice and performance capture work”?


https://www.screendaily.com/news/sag-aftra-calls-strike-against-top-video-game-companies-over-ai-concerns/5195764.article?

Actors Make Your Reel A Priority by Tammy Hunt  •  last post Jul 25th


This is your main asset as an actor and you want to make sure it's showcasing your acting skills in the best possible light. Points to consider:

Does this reel highlight your acting at its best?

Could you record or edit any footage to strengthen it?

Does this still look like you? (are you using old/out-of-date footage?)

Does this reel consist of work you are passionate about? (Think of your branding and what you are putting out for consideration.)

Length. Is my reel too long and not keeping the viewer engaged?

Are you using footage just because you think you have to? (you paid for a reel you spent lots of money on, or a scene from drama school.)

Is the production value letting you down? It may appear as though you are an amateur.

Just be sure your reel is the very best it can be.


 

Webinar coming soon! Self-taping 101: Everything you need to know to successfully audition by Sydney Summers  •  last post Jul 25th

Stage 32 is excited to welcome Kym Jackson back for her upcoming webinar. Learn the industry standards and common pitfalls that come with making a self-tape from an actor with over 60 credits!

For an actor today, self tapes make the world go around. They are the main way for us to show what we can do with a role, to book work and for casting offices and filmmakers to get to know us.

There are right and wrong ways to execute each element of a self tape. Some issues can be so bad that casting may not be able to share your tape with production, and may not have time to give notes for you to do it again. Most aren’t ‘deal breakers’ - they just make us look a little worse, and don’t really help us ‘shine’.

In this webinar, Kym will walk you through self tape equipment and technical set up, then share performance tips, before moving on to editing methods and finally exporting and uploading your self taped auditions. She will show you how to execute each stage of self taping in a way that supports and enhances your performance, so you can avoid mistakes that distract from it.

Plus receive a Self Tape Setup Map Handout.

Sign up link: https://www.stage32.com/education/c/education-webinars?h=actors-master-t...

Email edu@stage32.com with any questions!

Acting classes by Omari Washington  •  last post Jul 25th

Hey Superstars,

what are some good on camera acting classes to take right now?