Introduce Yourself : So very confused by Elena Stecca

Do not take any 'extra' parts no matter how easy it is to get the gig. If you're serious about acting, hone your craft and hold out for principle and feature roles. Mandy.com and Actorsaccess.com offer little tidbits of free info about upcoming auditions and casting calls. It'll help to get a few credits under your belt before looking for an agent. Good luck!

I'm not sure why people say not to work as an extra. Work as an extra as much as you want. I just wouldnt put it on your resume unless you have nothing else to put there. I don't really think of working as an extra as acting. But it is fun and you can make a little bit of money with it. the first thing i'd do is take acting classes. Good ones. Ask other people in your classes about what agent they have and get a referral. Go to as many auditions as you can and get some stuff to add to your resume and get a demo reel. When talking to an agent research them. Look them up online, find reviews. Dont sign with anyone that wants upfront fee's or is selling acting classes or headshots. A good agent should be taking a percentage.

i would suggest if it seems to good to be true, its probably not. make sure you have good head shots, do back round check on the agent, manager or scout. anyone can print a business card. if there is a production group or theatre group in the area go mingle with them, talk to other female actors. They coud bring insight on whos good and whos a scam

the best advice I could give you on your acting career is to follow your gut instincts. If your heart tells you to sign with a particular agent do it. if your heart tells you to take a particular acting class do it. It's good to research and ask around as well but if you audit a class and it feels right take that class. Or if you meet with an agent and it feels right sign with that agent.

be very careful... lots of blue sky so always double check everyone

If you are "fresh meat" in the acting world, you're a long way from getting or even worrying about getting a manager and or agent. First off, start working... go on every single audition you can go on. Every single moment you spend "showing your stuff" is a moment you're honing your craft. Land parts, even simple extra parts... The more time you spend on set , the more valuable you will become as an actor who knows how things work. Practice at home, practice with friends, shoot some demo material, get an acting coach , take classes, read.... learn everything you can. You are probably 5 to 6 years from needing an agent.. And a manager? Until you can pay a manager to manage your amazing career, you don't have a career that needs a manager. Start at the beginning. start acting.

A Manager is basically worthless until you are very successful.

Thanks all!

You'll find lots of stories here you should check out the Actors Lounge.... Good Luck!

Just keep looking for work! When it comes to finding representation, you should never have to pay for anything! They get paid when you get work. No work, no paycheck for them. (To put it into perspective) It's ok for them to suggest photographers and such, but beware of the agents that demand you use "theirs". Also, never go to an audition alone, and never take anything off you're not comfortable with. Just keep putting yourself out there and never give up! Best of luck. :]

If you ever have any questions please feel free to message me.

I don't know why everyone says not to get an agent right away. I started out by getting an agent. They want to sign you because thats how they make money. thats what they do. all you have to do to get an agent is prove to them you are serious about acting and that you are ambitious if they see that desire they will sign you even if you have no experience at all. So enroll in a good acting class get cast in a student film and then go talk to an agent. that should be enough. if they say no, dont fret get a little more experience and then come back. no biggie

I like this guys advice ^

I agree with Dan. Get an agent and get as much experience as you can be it horror,dramatic, sci-fi,romantic, comedy's anything that will help you improve your skills. The biggest advice anyone can give is don't give up. Keep your head up and be willing to accept rejection. Its part of the business. Best of luck

Welcome all the best to you Elena

find a friend...let them get to know who you are

Hello. I am the owner of TheJEGroup! and we offer to assist talented people assistance on getting gigs and work. If you wish, we could have a Skype meeting at your convenience. And, as stated on this page, we never take payment until you get paid first. Checkout http://www.japanese-experts.com for more information. Thanks. MM

Don't worry until they start calling you "FM"! ;-)

Hi Elena, I'm also fresh, though aging, meat. Wishing you all the very best!