Why you must get an actor website — From a casting director’s perspective

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An actor website — Your key to making a strong first impression

Yes, we have talked about first impressions before and will continue to remind you. Be present online, it’s crucial for any profession, and acting is no exception. Any casting director will agree with us on how important an actor website is in launching and advancing your acting career. In this article, we'll explore why an actor website is essential and give you industry-standard tips on how to become an actor and land your first gig.

The importance of an actor website in three steps

1. Your online presence

Showcase your work

An actor website is the place for casting directors to see your work. Present yourself by displaying your headshots, showreel, and resume. Don’t forget to leave your contact information! First impressions matter: A well-designed website creates a professional first impression, showing that you are serious about your career.

Accessibility

Your website is accessible 24/7, allowing casting directors and agents to view your up-to-date profile at any time.

2. Control over your brand

Branding

Your website allows you to control your image, presenting yourself the way you want to be seen in the industry. The goal is to set yourself apart to other actors with your actor brand and spark the curiosity of casting directors.

Update easily

You can easily update your website with new headshots, showreels, and achievements, making sure it’s always current. Sending PDF's doesn't cut it in 2024, and remember that casting directors can see your latest, updated actor material on your actor website.

SEO benefits

A website with optimized content can rank higher in search engine results, increasing your visibility. So, what does this mean? Those who search for you on Google will find you easier.

3. Professionalism and credibility

Professional image

A dedicated actor website portrays professionalism and commitment to your career. It shows your true dedication to the craft, which casting directors and agents will notice.

Build credibility

An actor website helps in building credibility and trust with casting directors and agents, who may prefer to work with actors that have a professional online presence. In short it makes everyone, both industry experts and yourself, look more professional.

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Photo source — Gilles Lambert, Unsplash

How to become an actor

Training and education

Acting classes

Join acting classes and workshops to hone your craft. Look for reputable institutions and experienced instructors. Your starting point as an aspiring actor should always be to learn more about acting and improving your skills to increase your chances of landing any role in any production. Be picky later.

Theater experience

Participate in local theater productions to gain practical experience and improve your skills. If you are at the actual start of your career, you can also ask to participate as an actor in student projects. It might lead to bigger roles later down the line, you learn loads and usually you receive valuable footage that you can send to casting directors or upload directly to your actor website.

Diverse training

Train in different acting styles, such as method acting or improvisation, to become a versatile actor. This helps you stand out, also showing your versatility of skills in your website can be an advantage in castings, as casting directors often looks for actors with for instance language and movement skills. If you play an instrument, make sure to add it to your experience.

Create your website

Headshots

Invest in professional headshots. These are crucial for your website and casting submissions. If you can’t afford to hire someone as a newcomer, ask a friend to take one with a smartphone until you land your first gig. It is better to have one than none. The idea is to achieve your dreams one step at a time.

Showreel

Create a showreel showcasing your best performances. Keep it concise and highlight your versatility. A good length is 1-3 minutes, and the focus should be on you delivering a few strong scenes. If you have enough footage, including a few different characters in your showreel will reflect your abilities to the casting directors and agents. Avoid using music, however note that scenes which already include music works just fine.

CV

Maintain an updated actor CV detailing your acting experience, training, and special skills. Also include any additional information such as your playing age, height and hair- and eye color. Avoid over-the-top designs, and focus on creating a clean layout that is easy for industry professionals to navigate.

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Find auditions and gigs

Casting websites

Register on casting websites like Backstage, Casting Networks, and Actors Access to find audition opportunities. Research which the reputable casting websites in your region are. Apply for roles, learn and get experience. Over time you can be more picky.

Networking

Attend industry events, workshops, and film festivals to network with industry professionals. If you are new to networking and nervous about it, know that it is valuable even just to be in the same room as other professionals. You learn by observing and the more you go, the more comfortable you will get. Prepare a short introduction of yourself mentioning things like your passion for acting and roles you would like to play for instance.

Social media

Use social media platforms to connect with casting directors, agents, and fellow actors. Join acting groups and forums. If you are new to the game, choose one platform and focus on that. Start small. You can try posting updates from your acting journey, follow accounts that inspire you and connect with industry professionals. For daily actor keys, feel free to follow us on Instagram at @actorcv.

Photo credits — KAL VISUALS, Unsplash

Land your first gig

Prepare for auditions

Research the role

Understand the character and the project. Look for videos and photos of previous productions, and listen to interviews of actors who share their experience of playing the same part. It is also worth researching the director's previous work and the style of the production company, so you can have an understanding of who you are about to meet.

Practice

Practice your lines and scenes. Consider working with an acting coach for feedback. If you can't afford or have access to an acting coach, consider following accounts on social media that share actor keys.

Confidence

Enter the audition room with confidence and a positive attitude. Believe in your talent. Normally, if you have prepared enough for an audition, the confidence will simply come naturally.

Follow up

Send thank-you notes

After an audition, send a thank-you note to the casting director. It shows professionalism and keeps you in their mind. Keep it brief, sincere and professional.

Stay persistent

Rejection is part of the process. Stay persistent and keep auditioning. Don’t give up. If you want to have a career as an actor, you need to learn how to deal with rejection and failures. After an audition, consider what you did well and what you could try to do differently next time.

Actor keys — No. 1

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Create an effective actor website

Choose the right platform

Website builders

Choose to create your website on a platform that is tailored to your needs. Are you a coding wizard? Maybe try Wix. Or for different layout options, try Squarespace, however be prepared that some of your technical skills might be needed.
If you want a website creator that’s especially made for actors, and in the format casting directors want, you could try ActorCV. The key is to test and choose what’s right for you.

Key components of your website

CV

Include a high-quality headshot and a brief introduction. An updated CV should include your training, experience and any additional skills you might have aside from acting. This include languages and playing an instrument for instance.

Showreel and gallery

Upload your most up-to-date showreel, recent headshots and production stills. If you are completely new to acting, ask a friend to take some photos of you with a clear background and strong look.

Contact information

Ensure that you include a way for casting directors and agents to reach you. Leaving a few options is desirable.

Verdict — Why having an actor website is essential for your acting career

An actor website is a must in your journey to become an actor and land your first gig. It showcases your work, builds your brand, and presents you as a professional. By investing in a well-crafted website and following the steps outlined in this guide, you increase your chances of being noticed and cast in your dream roles.

For more guidance on launching your acting career, read our comprehensive guide How to become an actor — Your step-by-step guide where we walk you through the essential steps on how to become an actor, providing valuable tips and resources to help you on your way.