Tips for Acting in Commercials

Commercials are an excellent entry way into the world of acting and new faces are always welcomed! In order to master this field, it is important to remember the main purpose: sell the product! Not everyone that gets into commercials gets famous, but it gets you more on your resume, great experience behind the camera, and your face in front of the whole world, especially if you become a spokesperson. (For example, think of the Allstate or Progressive spokesperson.) They come out with new commercials very often, selling their product. Now that’s getting your face out there!

Since products exist today for audiences of all ages, backgrounds, and looks, there is a great need for diversity in commercials to reach all consumers. Actors must know what typecast they are so they can better portray themselves in both their headshots and appearance on the day of audition! Check out the Actors Nook article for more on Typecasts! http://actorsnook.blogspot.com/search/label/Typecast

Taking an acting class or workshop for commercial acting would be extremely beneficial to any aspiring actor. Remember, you want to be prepared and keep your options open to all acting opportunities. These classes will normally focus purely on how to audition for commercials, and how to act in them as well. The skills learned in these classes may be the difference between getting the role and not, so consider taking them. Some skills you may learn include, how to hold the product, (not covering the label), how to play to the camera, how to smile, etc. Going to these workshops will also help lessen your nerves which, normally, would conflict with your chances! For more on auditioning, check out the Actors Nook article. http://actorsnook.blogspot.com/search/label/Auditioning

Another option to prepare you before auditioning for a commercial is by simply watching TV commercials. By doing so, you will be able to see the kind of requirements it takes to be in a commercial and which ones may suit you. Be sure to watch for specific roles, what type of people are cast, and then determine the category you best fit in so you will know how to represent yourself. Many actors wish to play every role, but if you do not look like a "mom," or are not yet old enough, you should not be auditioning for one! When studying  commercials, also look at how the actors carry themselves, stand, walk, talk, etc.  Commercials often play stereotypes of characters, which is a good thing to keep in mind. 

Getting opportunities for commercial auditions can be a lot easier with a commercial agent. They can help you decide where you best fit, and how you should advertise yourself.  You can find a commercial agent by getting references from networking actors or a list of agency offices from SAG/AFTRA. The Ross Reports may also include some information on commercial agents. For more information on finding agent, read our Actors Nook article. http://actorsnook.blogspot.com/search/label/Agents 

Focus on building your commercial look and  on your acting to get you one step closer to your dream.  Get that commercial head shot (with a bubbly smile and showing teeth,) resume, and get to that audition!! Read the Actors Nook article on Headshots for specifics on commercial headshots! http://actorsnook.blogspot.com/search/label/Headshots Audition, Audition, AUDITION!!!–Actors Nook Team