The Actor's Survival Guide

Exploring the experience of relocating to L.A, the casting process and how to identify and find work with the key players in the film and television industry, this book offers a business-centered road map through the industry

It seeks to navigate the challenges and identify the pitfalls and wrong-turns that hinder too many promising careers and frustrate even the most dedicated of actors

In doing so, the book seeks to provide an extra-competitive edge of experience and know-how for those actors who have the skills and determination to persevere

This Second Edition features a number of new sections and topics including:

Updates on casting diversity with the most recent SAG/AFTRA data

Changes in contracts for film, television and stage, including information on AEA's new Hollywood Equity Waiver policy

Details on new contracts for film, television and new media; ongoing contract negotiations for video game content; and the ramifications of the SAG/AFTRA merger

Renewed emphasis on set safety, especially for stunt performers

Audition workshops

Emerging role of social media in an actor's marketing strategy

Written from the perspective of working actor and experienced career-guidance teacher Jon S. Robbins, this unique guide will help aspiring actors bridge the gap between training in drama schools and working in the epicentre of the film and television industries

Hugely comprehensive, The Actor's Survival Guide offers everything you need to know:

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Moving to Los Angeles "Simple Is as Simple Does"

Why a 'business plan'?
What to do to prepare /What not to do
What to bring/What not to bring
Common mistakes

2. Living in Los Angeles

The Neighborhoods
Hollywood or the Beach?
NoHo or Burbank?
West Hollywood or Silverlake?
Employment vs Entrepreneurship

3. Surviving in Los Angeles

Developing a Business Plan for Success
Employment
Actor's survival jobs
Housing
Rentals and Roommates
Alternatives - Roommate Services
Exchange for service
Artist Communes
What do you really need as a living space?
Transportation
Cars vs. busesor a subway?

4. The Business of Acting

The Buyers
Studios vs Netflix Internet streaming
Internet Television
International players
Mobile downloading
The Gaming Industry
The Sellers
What's the Product - You!
The cost of illegal downloading

5. Marketing Tools

Headshot - Theatrical vs. Commercial
Photographers How to prepare for the photo shoot
Resume - What to include/What not to include
Photo Cards
Actor's Reel
Personal Website/ Podcasts
IMDb

6. Talent Agents and Personal Managers

What is the difference
Theatrical/Commercial
SAG Franchised?

7. Unions

Who are they?
SAG
EQUITY
How do I join a union?
What will it do for me?

8. Film and Television Casting

Breakdowns
Submissions
Hard Copy Photos
Electronic Casting
Drop-Off Services
Auditions
Casting Directors
Film/Television/Commercial/Stage
Wardrobe Clothing
The Reading
Cold read
Improvisation
Slated/dry read
The Callback
The Booking

9. Contracts

Contract Specifics
Types of Contracts - theatrical, television, commercials, interactive
New media and corporate/educational
Other Legal Agreements

10. Working (Union vs. Non)

Film
Experimental
Student
Waiver
Television/Episodic
Comedy
Drama
Reality
Commercials
Music Videos Industrial/Infomercial
Stage
Atmosphere (Background Extra)
Ethical Concerns
Safety Concerns

11. Bookkeeping

What is IRS deductible?
Mileage
Postage
Training
Marketing materials
Keep Receipts - Per Diem/Travel
Continuing Education
Acting classes
Casting Workshops
Showcasing
Physical Training