How To Become An Actor For TV Shows And Movies (Updated)

How to Become an Actor: The Complete Beginner’s Guide to Starting Your Acting Career

Do you want to learn how to become an actor? Whether your dream is Hollywood, Broadway, or the booming Georgia film industry, anyone can start an acting career at any age — as long as you understand how the business works.

Acting can be one of the most rewarding, creative, and exciting careers in the world. Actors get paid to perform for live audiences, appear on TV, star in films, and bring stories to life. If acting is something you’ve always wanted to try, this guide will walk you through the essential steps you need to take.

No matter your background or experience, it is never too late to start. Here’s what you need to know to begin your journey.

1. Acting Is a Business — Understand the Industry First

Before you dive into auditioning or training, the first rule of learning how to become an actor is understanding this truth:

👉 Show business is still a business.

Many talented actors fail because they treat acting like a hobby instead of a career. Successful actors understand how:

Casting directors choose talent
Producers hire actors
Talent agents submit clients
Networks and studios create content

When you know what decision-makers want, you can position yourself as a professional who stands out.

2. Many People Dream of Acting — Few Treat It Like a Career

Millions of people dream of seeing their name in lights, winning awards, and having fans. But very few people actually take the steps needed to build a real acting career.

The good news? If you stay consistent and treat acting like a business, you’ll be ahead of most beginners.

Every year, thousands of new actors move to Los Angeles, New York, and Atlanta — but many fail because they don’t understand the process. Here’s how to avoid that mistake.

3. What You Need to Become an Actor: The Two Essential Skills

Every successful actor needs two things:

SKILL #1: Acting Ability

Some people have natural talent. Others develop it through study and practice. Either way, acting technique is essential.

SKILL #2: The Ability to Market Yourself

As an actor, you are the product. Casting directors, producers, and agents must see something in you that fits the role.

To market yourself effectively, you need:

A professional headshot
A strong acting résumé
The ability to audition confidently
A clear understanding of your “type” and strengths

Just like brands advertise products, actors must promote themselves.

4. Why a Great Headshot Is Essential

A headshot is your most important marketing tool. Until casting directors know who you are, you’re just another name on a list.

A great headshot should:

Look exactly like you
Show your personality
Highlight your unique features
Make people want to meet you

Always hire a professional photographer who specializes in actor headshots — the difference is worth it.

5. Building a Strong Acting Résumé

Your headshot gets attention.

Your résumé shows your experience.

An acting résumé includes:

Credits (film, TV, theater, commercials)
Training (acting classes, workshops, schools)
Special skills (accents, sports, stunts, languages)

Even beginners can build a résumé by working on:

Student films
Community theater
Indie projects
Background work (in moderation)

6. Do You Need Acting Classes?

Some actors succeed without formal training — Tom Cruise never took acting classes — but most benefit greatly from them.

You can study acting through:

College programs
Acting studios
Workshops
Personal coaching

Choose training based on your budget and goals. The important thing is consistent practice.

Ways to improve quickly:

Audition frequently
Watch great actors perform
Study scenes
Practice monologues
Perform in theater or student films

Experience is the best teacher.

7. Do You Need an Agent to Become an Actor?

You can get work without an agent, but a reputable talent agent gives you access to better opportunities — especially in film and television.

Agents:

Submit you for roles not publicly listed
Connect you with casting directors
Negotiate contracts
Manage the business side of your career

Most major roles in Hollywood and Atlanta are only available through talent agents.

8. What Is an Acting Audition?

Auditioning is the actor’s job.

Booking the role is the bonus.

An audition tests how well you can:

Take direction
Make strong acting choices
Memorize lines quickly
Stay calm under pressure

Think of an audition like a first date: you want to impress without trying too hard. Casting directors want someone who fits the role naturally.

9. What to Expect From an Acting Career

Acting is not the fastest path to wealth — but it is a career filled with creativity and opportunity.

You can expect to:

✔ Speak confidently in front of audiences

✔ Develop thick skin to handle criticism

✔ Build strong social skills

✔ Meet interesting and creative people

✔ Work on sets, travel, and join incredible communities

Most actors succeed through dedication, patience, and persistence.

Final Thoughts: How to Become an Actor

If you truly want to learn how to become an actor, the most important step is starting. Acting is a long journey, but anyone with passion and consistency can break into the industry.

It’s never too late. Your success depends on your willingness to learn, grow, and take action.

Combine your dedication with Project Casting’s resources, and you’ll be equipped to take on one of the most competitive industries in the world.