🎬 How Do I Get My Acting Career Started?

Leigh Parker Acting Studio

Let’s be real — to book work, you need to audition. So, how do you start?

Step 1: Self-Submit

You don’t need an agent to start auditioning. There are loads of short films, student projects, local ads, and indie gigs looking for new faces. These are usually low/no pay, but they’re perfect for gaining experience, credits, and showreel footage.

• Sign up to a casting platform like Casting Networks, StarNow, or Showcast. (Yes, the “free” version is gone — boo!) BUT: There’s a cheeky workaround — start the Casting Networks free trial, cancel immediately, and you may still get access to a basic membership. Worth a shot if you’re on a tight budget.

• Don’t stress about having a perfect profile yet. Use temporary headshots from your phone. Fill in any training, classes, or tiny bits of experience — it all counts for now.

• Set a habit: Spend 15 minutes a day browsing auditions and submitting. Even if it’s just “for fun,” it’s real practice.

  
  

Step 2: Getting an Agent

Once you’re feeling ready for bigger opportunities, it’s time to seek representation.

Since you’ve already made a casting profile (Step 1 = nailed it), include that link when reaching out to agents — it shows you’re serious and organized.

A few tips:

• Talk to multiple agents before signing.

• This isn’t a job interview — it’s a partnership. Go with someone you like, trust, and feel good vibes with. You're going to be in regular contact, so it matters.

  
  

🚩 What to Avoid / Red Flags

Social Media Ads: Legit agents don’t post ads saying “looking for the next big star!”That’s usually code for: “We want to sell you a course/headshots/membership.” Avoid.

💰 Costs: What You Should (and Shouldn't) Pay as an Actor

NO SIGNING FEES. PERIOD. Legitimate talent agencies do not charge you to join. They make money by taking a commission after you book a job. If an agency asks for a joining fee, ongoing “agency fees,” or insists you pay for their specific acting course, headshots, or some kind of package — that’s a RED FLAG.

What Is Reasonable to Pay For

🎭 Training / Coaching: Always be working on your craft. Acting classes, dialect coaching, improv, voice work, and movement training are all valid investments. No one method fits all — explore and grow.

📸 Headshots: Essential. Use a professional photographer who specializes in actor headshots. Update them when your look changes significantly.

🎥 Self-Tape Setup: Most auditions are now self-tapes. You don’t need a fancy camera — your phone is fine. Get:

• A tripod

• Basic lighting

• A neutral backdrop (blue or grey, not black) make it portable — auditions will come while you’re on holiday!

  
  

🌐 Website Database Fees: These days, your resume, headshots, reel, and agent info live online. Agents submit you via casting databases, so covering the annual membership cost is reasonable, especially if you’re starting out. Just confirm what site they use and what the actual fee is.

⚠️ A Note on "Admin Fees"

Some agencies charge “admin fees” — but legally, this is murky territory. If you’re asked to pay one:

• Ask exactly what it covers (e.g., website updates, social media, etc.)

• Decide if those services are worth it to you or if you’d rather handle them yourself.

• It’s reasonable to ask for the fee to be waived if you don’t want those extras.
  

Bottom line: You should never be required to pay extra for your agent to do the basic job of representing you. They get paid when you get paid — via commission. If they’re offering optional extras, fine — as long as it’s truly optional.

✅ Reputable Talent Agents in QLD

Here’s a direct link to the MEAA Australian Talent Agents list — it features some of the most trusted agencies across Queensland and beyond:👉 MEAA Australian Talent Agents

Some agencies may not be listed here, so if you're unsure about one, ask me! I'm always happy to chat and help you figure it out.

🎭 Representation Tiers (What Level Are You In?)

Many agencies use a tier system:

• Entry-Level: Background/extras

• Mid-Tier: TVCs, featured extras, 1-line roles

• Top Tier: Auditions for speaking roles in film & TV
  

To be considered for a higher tier, agents look at:

• Do you fit a casting type they need?

• Do you have the skill, training, and experience for that level?

• Do you have the tools (headshots, showreel, etc.) to be submitted?

  
  

🧰 What You’ll Need

📸 Headshots: Outside of training, this is the biggest financial investment for most actors. Again, use a professional photographer who specializes in actor headshots. Update them when your look changes significantly.

🎞️ Showreel: Most speaking roles now require one — but it doesn’t have to break the bank.

Budget-Friendly Reel Options:

• Use strong self-tapes — just make sure the lighting and sound are clean, and you’ve got a solid scene partner.

• Do short films — they’re fun, educational, and a great way to gather footage.

• Make your own — collaborate with other actors, work on a scene together, and shoot it!

💬 Final Thoughts

Starting out in acting is about momentum, not perfection. Put yourself out there, say yes to opportunities, and learn as you go. And if you’re ever unsure about something, just ask. I’ve got your back.

Break Legs!

— Leigh