Expert: Taylor Sheppard - 10/6/2007

Question
QUESTION: hi im 18 years old and for a while i've been interested in the acting scene, i dont have any experience and i would like to like to find out how/where to get started. I would like to start getting into doing tv commercials and then move up into acting on tv on local shows/series, then someday maybe onto the bigscreen. What/where do i need to start to make this happen, should i enroll for example at a school? like www.vfs.com (vancouver film school) and take it from there?

ANSWER: Hi Andy,

Yes, classes are the way to start. That's like learning to drive or anything. Knowing how to act is key. Some things that look easy are only that, something which looks easy. It takes skill and knowing what to do -and when to do very little, to achieve that.
Enroll in legitimate classes and take them from various teachers for a broad perspective. I wouldn't concern myself with stage acting too much if going toward TV/Film/Commercials, stage is different and can be hard to break habits you develop that don't work with film. It doesn't hurt to learn the mechanics of producing a movie either, because you get to know what directors look for in actors and how the business works.
Do the classes, then take the next steps: getting a headshot, putting together a resume and then finding an agent...all of which I have covered in previous answers. Check my archive....
Best, Taylor

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Taylor its been a while since i asked you this question haha. In a day or two im going to get a black&white/colord headshot to submit to some agencys. Im going to submit to a agency soon in a day or two in their commercial department here is the add below;
Thank you for your interest in the Commercial Department. We are accepting submissions, please note the following guidelines for your package:
You must be 18+ years of age. Acting/Film & TV experience isn't required, but encouraged. Your package should include a 8x10 black and white headshot, cover letter, and working resume.
I was wondering if there is anything i should know while taking the photo. Like anything speciic i should let the photorapher know, like this is going to be a headshot for acting? any poses prefered? these kind of things. If you got any advice concerning this, that would be well appreciated.
Thanks, Andy
(Vancouver,BC Canada)

Answer
Hi Andy,

I would say you need a color headshot, 3/4 (meaning head and shoulders in photo) and if for acting, a serious expression (not mean or angry. For commercial work, a smiling, open and friendly, energetic look is best. You can take both at the same session...

As far as that agency, it sounds straight forward, can't really tell. As long as they aren't asking for a fee to represent you, they should be okay. Never pay an agent except when you have done a job they got you and then they only get 10% to 15% typically.

Best,
Taylor