» career

Avoid Negative Press

prsavage — Sat, 12 Jun 2010 23:29:03 +0000

by prsavage

There is a growing trend for actors to behave as if they’re “above the law.” They abuse drugs and alcohol, cheat on their spouses, become involved in domestic disputes, and violate court orders with little disregard for the possible consequences. As the saying goes, “There is no such thing as bad publicity…” However, in my opinion, these activities and the negative press associated with them actually hurt an actor’s career in the long run.

What these actors may not realize is that their actions place them in a “high-risk” category. No matter how talented they are, the number of people who are willing to take a chance on them is significantly reduced by each negative incident. So, the remaining opportunities available to these actors are often of lower quality and much lower pay rates. Reliability and professionalism are highly valued in the acting world. Some of the most prominent actors today reached their level of fame and success with good work ethics.

Once you’re placed into the “high-risk” category, it is often difficult to remove yourself from it. A stint in rehab and a tearful press conference are often not enough to erase the memories of your negative past. Although your face may be on the front of countless publications all around the world, you will still be missing out on one of the most important things in your career: paid work.

So it is probably best to avoid any actions and situations that could make you a favorite in the tabloids. Being bad will certainly get you noticed, but being good will win you support. And I don’t know about you, but I like to stay on the winning side.

Don’t Be Famous AND Broke

Shavar — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 02:50:20 +0000

It doesn’t really matter if you ever become a major star; if you can work consistently as a professional actor, you’re blessed, trust me. No, it’s what you DO with your money that will determine your true success.

Would you rather be a famous actor and be constantly bombarded with fans everywhere you go AND BROKE or a not-so famous actor who works from time to time yet has the security in knowing that part of the money you earned from your acting gigs is put away safe for a rainy day?

Sure, have fun, enjoy yourself, it’s okay to splurge a little sometimes but don’t be a fool. Save your money, invest it. Have “something to show” for all your hard work because you will not always work. Yes, you can work consistently as an actor all your life if that’s what you choose but let it really this sink in–acting as an occupation is not like a regular 9 to 5 job.

You will have downtime, times where you will be looking for work, looking for your next job. If you’ve already spent what you’ve earned and didn’t save anything what will you do?

I’ll tell ya. You will stress yourself out trying to book your next role and your agitation, frustration and fears will be all over your face when you go in to read for an audition.

Have you ever heard of the term, “Never let’em see you sweat?” Well, you’ll be “sweating” if you’re broke so save, save, save!

Remember, it doesn’t matter how small or big the job is, you can always put something away for a rainy day. If you get into the habit of doin’ this now, you’ll always be financially secure, even if you become a big time star.

But don’t ever end up being famous AND broke…

Publicists: What They Do?

prsavage — Wed, 26 May 2010 22:52:14 +0000

by prsavage

You may often hear people within the entertainment industry throw around the term “publicist” quite often. However, you may not have a clear understanding of what a publicist does for actors and other industry professionals.

Publicists serve as the “voices” of the clients they represent. They are responsible for communicating with the public, especially the media, on your behalf. Publicists are basically spokespeople who help build your popularity, and they often accomplish this through obtaining press coverage to create a favorable image for you.

Publicists can be of high value to actors, whether they are newly discovered faces or seasoned veterans. Not only will publicists promote you as an actor by distributing press releases and articles to relevant media contacts; they will also arrange interviews, guest appearances, TV and radio promotions, and special events to get your name out to the public. The best publicists blend traditional PR methods with social media so that you reach audiences both offline and online. This type of publicity can equate to more offers for acting roles and higher pay for jobs.

So next time someone mentions his or her “publicist,” you will know exactly what this person does. And once you feel you are ready to take your career to the next level, I recommend hiring a publicist of your own.

prsavage

Am I Ready for an Acting Career?

prsavage — Sat, 22 May 2010 22:19:11 +0000

Singer-turned actress Shruti Hassan

So you’ve done some community theater productions, been an extra on a film shoot, or been booked for a couple of local TV commercials. What now? When does the work you enjoy go from being a fun pastime to a budding acting career?

Aspiring to become a successful actor takes not only drive, but also a thick skin. Right now you may be at the point where your natural acting ability is getting you some attention. But are you prepared to take it to the next level and commit to doing what it takes to make it in the very competitive acting world? If acting is truly your passion and you literally wake up every morning thinking about your next gig, then it’s time to get busy!

Finding ways to constantly enhance your acting skills is what will help set you apart among the many other aspiring actors who will not only be your biggest competitors, but also your closest confidants and mentors. If you’re in need of more training, find the best acting school or improv group near you. If you need to promote yourself, create a CV of your past work and get some great headshots from a photographer. If you need to refine a look that will play up your unique qualities, get to a mall for a new wardrobe or get an eye-catching haircut.

Once you feel you are ready, start attending all the auditions you possibly can. Try to be open-minded with the scripts and roles you read for, knowing that the smallest parts can lead to bigger opportunities. Be ready for rejections and listen closely to any feedback casting directors give you. And network, network, network! The relationships you build in this business will often further your career in unexpected ways.

Going from a small-town star to a world-renowned figure is no easy road for an actor. However, it is possible to do once you make the transition from just occasionally doing what you love to living what you dream every day. Are you ready?