So You Want To Be an Actor?

So you want to be an actor? You dream of being on television or going to the theater and seeing your face on the screen. You want to be rich and famous, walk the red carpets, do the interviews, all that jazz and more. Well, most actors never become rich and famous, but that doesn't mean it still isn't a great career. However, like all things, there are ups and downs to the job. Here are some of the pros and cons for you to think about...

Pro: Everyday is different
As an actor, you never know what you'll be doing everyday. Each day is a different adventure. One day you might be auditioning for a commercial and the next you're recording a voice-over for a cartoon. You'll never get bored as there is no "typical" day.

Con: Everything is last minute
Auditions, callbacks and even sometimes things like photo shoots and meetings are all last minute. Sometimes you'll get so much as two days notice but most of the time it's less than a day. Also, "day of" auditions are becoming more and more common where your agent or manager will call you and tell you to be in Santa Monica or Studio City within two hours. So if you plans, guess what? They just got cancelled. Work has to come first or you'll never make it.

Pro: You get to do a lot of different things
You'll be asked to perform all sorts of talents and have to learn new skills. You'll get to pretend to be different people, meet various people and travel .

Con: Appearance is extremely important
Your appearance really matters. You have to keep yourself in shape, maintain your hair, nails and skin. Then you'll have to dress the part and always be primped because you never know when you'll have to run to an audition or callback.

Pro: You have a chance at fame and fortune
Your dreams are right in front of you. You actually have a chance at fame and fortune if you can just land the perfect role and pull it off. The dream will keep you alive if you let it.

Con: You'll need another job at first
When you're first starting out you'll need another job to pay the bills because you won't be making enough as an actor to support yourself. Also, you'll be spending a ton of cash on acting classes, headshots and audition expenses that you'll have to have a constant cash flow.

Acting is a wonderful profession but there are a lot of factors to consider before you jump in. Good luck and maybe we'll see you in the movies!