Staying Up on Acting Industry Trends

I recently read an article on Thrive Global that really peaked my entrepreneur mindset. It was an interview titled Predicting Future Trends in the Acting Industry With Larry David Eudene by Yitzi Weiner. The interview was a great read about Larry David Eudene’s journey in the industry and it also addressed trends in the acting industry…which were spot on.

So this answered my initial research question of what does the future of acting include? And it got me thinking about my own experience reviewing trends. 

So what does the future of acting include? A different process to casting? Actors having a closer connection to the decision makers…better access?… more exposure and mediums to be seen? 

These are all possibilities.

Acting is an art form, yes and we should do it because we are passionate, yes. Acting is also a livelihood for career actors and a business with the TV and video industry garnering upwards of $286.17 billion (according to statistics.com) worldwide and the theatre industry garnering $1.26 billion (statistics.com) just in the U.S. (And yes, I noticed the huge difference between TV/Video and theatre income..even with worldwide versus U.S. performances…which is a topic for another day, yet stay with me). 

My major point is that we have to know the trends in the industries of our business in a way that puts us “ahead of the curve" so to speak. When we know and understand industry trends, we can then incorporate this information in how we schedule auditions, network, prepare, book work and ultimately build our careers as actors.

I also note that there are many knowledgeable actors who have done their research and are practicing this process to the 10th degree and this is why they are successful and elevated performers booking consisted paid acting work that does more than sustain them and their families financially. If this is you, keep reading and let me know if I am on track and if this is not you, keep reading and take note of what you can do to take your career to the next level.

In today’s industry with Film, TV, Video and Theatre, more actors are being auditioned from their home offices. More often, quite a few companies want to shoot their films where it will be most cost effective for them to do so. These companies are looking at how they can save on production costs and have more tax incentives based on where they shoot. I experienced this when auditioning in Arizona for a role in a production being shot in Mexico by a California based production company. Being that we have a digital world, companies and directors are taking advantage of our technological age by auditioning and working with actors via online face to face platforms versus bringing people in to audition in the same room.  Some companies have done their auditions this way for a long time and others are just catching on. Furthermore, more productions are focusing on using local actors for roles to fill so they can save on costs. So pay attention to what productions/films are being produced in your area in the coming years via your local Film Board and SAG-AFTRA Offices.

Some companies are also viewing talent on membership portals like SAG-AFTRA, Actor’s Access and Backstage and contacting actors who they believe will fit their roles. I have gotten requests via these online portals to submit a self-tape audition or even hold dates for a role without even auditioning. It will benefit you to keep up to date profiles on Actors Access and Backstage. 

Directors want to cast their own talent for productions based on their vision. It will still work to your benefit to keep in contact with directors who you have worked with in the past and created a solid relationship with and to continue to network and meet directors via Film Festivals, previously booked roles, classes and industry related events. You have to also note that some shows are previously casts based on a previous working relationship between a director and an actor. Some directors really like to work with actors whom they have already built a solid working relationship with and many of the lead roles are given to actors who the director connects with most and feels has the ability to do great work…and then the director will look for actors to fill the other roles.

It is true that more actors need to be aware and considered for all roles in the beginning instead of being considered for what is left over…yes, I agree. 

On the other hand and in this day and age, you have to be proactive by knowing industry trends, developing and maintaining solid working relationships, reviewing what is coming up in your area, as far as productions, a year, two and even three years in advance and ask  directors directly for an opportunity to audition (make sure you have done the work to prepare for the role…getting in the mindset of living the character’s life circumstances and even wear clothes that will help you feel the part during your audition).

Your Career Investment

Just the other day I talked with an actor about investing in their career. We talked about preparing necessary materials and continuing with craft and career training to build their acting career. The actor asked, “Do I really need to spend money to build my acting career?” 

I get this question from new actors on a pretty regular basis. 

Before I continue, know there is a difference between credible instructors and coaches and the companies selling you an easy way to book work - you’ve probably seen or heard the commercials, “get seen by a big name director…star in the next big hit!” - when you attend the "audition" you learn that they made this call just to enroll people in their classes.

Know that I am not referring to the latter.

I am always talking about training and working with credible instructors and coaches to build your career, skill and knowledge with integrity.

So my response to the question is go for the credible training, make the investment…yes, spend the money on reputable opportunities to deepen your craft and grow your knowledge about the industry and here are my reasons why:

1. With most professions people either need a degree or training of some sort.
2. Actors need headshots, copies of a resume and business cards to send out for auditions and booking work in the industry.
3. We are always learning new things through our life experiences and it is always great to have a class or workshop environment to be able to process and work with our new knowledge and how this impacts the character work actors do.
4. Professional development is necessary for career growth. I believe we continue to get better when we take a craft or career class. We can always learn something new about our ability to dig deeper and create.
5. Growth and development will always cost something. So when you invest in your career be it time (this includes volunteering to audit a class or assist an instructor or coach during their workshop or training), money, or work, you will always get something out of what you put into your career. 

What are you investing today?

Catalyst Moments

We are all faced with situations that very clearly pushes us to a decision or completely changes our life or outlook on an aspect of our lives. These moments, when they take place, are truly life altering.

I have had many catalyst moments that have impacting my way of being and/or changed the trajectory of my life or career. What is important to note is I have also had choices and decisions to make when the catalyst moment appears.

You may have experienced your own catalyst moment when deciding to be an actor or when you were a part of a production that totally impacted your life.

My catalyst moment happened when I was in my acting class. I just talked to my mom about what kind of work I should take because of the "financial implications" of acting. 

Later on in my class, I performed a scene and was over come by a feeling of warmth, love and excitement. At that moment, I knew that acting was as my career of choice.

My catalyst moment happened when I realized that I was a talented actor and that I could effect change through the work I perform.

I was able to build a 20+ year acting career that I am still doing today.

I have built my capacity to continue to perform meaningful work. Today, I also help actors build a career of their dreams through coaching and services I offer.

What about you? What was your catalyst moment? Please share your moment with me in the comments section below.

Building a Bridge to Legacy and Why I Do What I Do

My family is full of loving individuals who are all very talented in some aspect of art; sewing, visual art, culinary arts, dancing…the list continues, yet somemembers did not take action to be able to express their art fully and perform their artistic dreams. There were also very tragic life circumstances that took them further away from achieving their dreams and I also believe that they did not know how to forge their own paths as artists. 

The members who did not pursue their artistic dreams ended up in conventional careers, worked to pay bills and take care of their own growing families-a noble and respectable act. 

I also wonder how much more could they have achieved for humanity if they had understood their own artistry and forged their own creative paths. 

I decided to forge my own path as an actor, and also help other actors build their careers. I do the latter because I know what it looks and feels like when a very creative artist does not live up to their potential and purpose in life. There is a sense of sadness…something missing that they themselves cannot describe in words.

Performance Art is meant to help change the world. When we don’t act upon that artistic impulse within, we miss our opportunity to create our legacy. This is why I encourage other actors to do what they are here to do through my coaching, programs and services. I want actors to feel loved, supported, inspired and encouraged. I want actors to realize their dreams and do work that excites them.

We are all here to understand and perform our purposes and create work that changes the world. When we understand this and when we perform our talents and purpose, our legacy lives on to greatly and positively impact generations to come.

What are you doing to realize your own artistry?

Think about it and post your comments below.

With sincerity,

Trena

Actors Need More Than Just a Headshot: How you can also hone your image and build your brand

Updating headshots for our work is what we do.  Actors need headshots updated on a regular basis to be able to be seen for auditions and build a career in the industry. Many actors go and get a still shot that shows who they are and that they think will represent them. Yet, is this way of getting shots done and then sharing those images with agents, directors and casting directors the way to go?

I was talking to an actor client a while ago who was preparing to get updated headshots, yet was so confused about what to wear. I brought my client back to the point that actors need to be clear about the type of character they want to portray in order to put together the best outfit for a photo shoot. Actors need more than just a headshot from their photo shoots. 

When getting updated headshots it is essential to do your homework, know your type and study the characters you want to portray. You then begin to build your brand image including your style and the type of environments you love. It is important to also choose the photographer who can help you create your image and build your brand as an actor.

Branding is essential in today’s market as it is one thing that can truly represent you and the type of work you are more than capable of performing. Your brand image can help you book work that is meaningful to you and grow your career. Your image should not just be a headshot taken. Your new brand image needs to be an experience that elevates the work you bring to your audiences. 

If you are looking to hone your image and build your brand, get in touch with us. We have a photography experience that transforms careers and helps actors book more consistently paid work.

Your career is looking forward to a great brand image that helps you book more work.

Happy honing!

With essence,

Trena

Learn more about your photography experience here!

See our portfolio by clicking on the images here!

The Importance of Listening

I recently saw a performance at a professional theatre and found myself watching more of what was not working with the performance than what was. I was deeply disappointed as the actors were not living in the moment. They were not listening to each other.

Theatre and performance is about bringing the written word to life. Theatre is also about expressing the in between...what is also not written in a way that takes your audience on a journey with you to experiencing an imaginary life as if it was real. With this, it is important for actors to be present on stage and in film in every moment.

As performers in a collaborative process working to produce a piece of theatre or film it is essential for actors to listen to their fellow actor and respond accordingly. When we listen to each other and respond in the moment we produce authentic experiences and experiences that connect with an audience in a more deep and profound way.

After that performance, I found myself continually thinking about the importance of this topic and the importance of actors never forgetting to be in the moment.

Life is continually evolving and getting faster and faster with our ever growing dependence on technology, and when you have a theatre filled with souls who come out and sit and watch a live performance, I implore you to give those souls the most present and authentic live experience they will ever see.

Today and everyday, I encourage you to practice listening and being present while working with your fellow actors.

Gratitude!

Thanksgiving is a day that we celebrate time with family and friends. A day for giving thanks and being grateful. Practicing sincere gratitude puts us in a different state of being every time. I think about gratitude as our opportunity to express goodness and think about all the good we have in our lives.

When you look over your life and your where you are today, what are you grateful for? List all of the things that you are grateful for on a daily basis and express gratitude.

Really thank God, the Universe, Spirit for days, moments, how far you’ve come and were you are.

Gratitude creates a foundation for growth in so many ways. Wish you a beautiful holiday with those you love.

Confidence

Yesterday while waiting for my car to be serviced at the dealership, I noticed an employee walk into the room where I was sitting to get coffee. I noticed how he walked into the room, his energy. He stepped into the room with his hands back, a straight spine and a slight bit of force in his step. He was full of confidence. It was refreshing to see his confidence. If he was a car salesman at that dealership, he was probably the top selling car salesman. If he was the head of finance at that dealership, he was probably the best head of finance. If he was the manager at that dealership, he was probably the most loved manager. That is how he carried himself and I recognized it. 

As I was sitting there I thought about confidence and how important it is to harness confidence when preparing for an audition, gearing up to perform a role and building a solid acting career.

Our belief in our skills and abilities shows up for us when we step into a room, even before we say a word. This is why confidence is important.

Confidence is trust in yourself and your ability to do what you set out to do. 

You must trust yourself and your own abilities if you are looking for a director or a casting director to feel secure in hiring you for a role. I know there are many times where we are given chances in life, yet I hope you start to build your career on trust and confidence versus chances. 

So what can you do to build your confidence?

1. Know and understand that you are enough
2. Create quotes or phrases that affirm that you are enough, write down and say these phrases aloud 10-20 times per day.
3. Practice your skill and talent by taking classes or performing monologues in front of an audience weekly
4. Practice your auditioning skills by booking and going on auditions

Building your confidence will definitely speak for you whenever you step into a room. You want others to also know that you are secure in your skills and abilities.

It is time to grow in confidence.

Trena

Paid Actor and Founder of Paid Actor

The Biggest Thing That Hold Actors Back

I ran into an actor the other day who spoke to me about the challenges he faces while working to create a paying career in the industry. He mentioned all of the training he received to help him build his craft. He shared his recent work with me and then he stated he was still uncertain if he could "really do this acting thing".

His words brought me to the many times, I have talked and worked with actors on this very same subject.

His words also brought me to the importance of sharing this story as I understand this situation all too well.

You see there was a time in my own career that I questioned my ability to be able to step out and really claim my space in a different market. I had just relocated to a different country and needed to familiarize myself with this new market. I went on audition after audition and wondered if I would even book a role as I did not speak the local languages nor could I speak the accent of the people of the country I was living in. 

I had to really get beyond my own thoughts to begin to build the career that I wanted and now I am an international actor who has been able to perform in fabulous productions and with fabulous people in different countries while getting paid. 

What I know is that the biggest thing that holds most actors back is our own thoughts about our talents and our abilities to take our careers to where we want them to be.

You know the quote "As a man thinketh within himself so is he."* In essence we become what we think as our thoughts form our beliefs and our beliefs shape our actions.

So if you are in the space of thinking you are not good enough or that you may not be able to make money in the industry or that you are a starving artist you will begin to develop all that you process and believe into your life.

The truth, your life and career does not have to go down that path. You definitely can reshape your thoughts and this is what I want to help you do in the first day of my Free Five Day Paid Actor Career Accelerator Challenge.

If reshaping your thought patterns to help you in your career connects with you, then join me here.

The Free Five Day Paid Actor Career Accelerator Challenge runs September 5-9, 2017 and will definitely reshape how you approach your acting business.

Sign up today and let's accelerate your acting career.

I look forward to seeing you in the challenge!

With much Paid Actor love,

Trena
Paid Actor

*The quote is from The Book of Proverbs.

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