Where do I start to become a model or commercial actress?

How do I start out as an actress/model?

• My dream is to be a successful actress and model, mostly actress. I am currently 16 years old, 5,6 and very thin. I haven't done any acting at all save for a few school plays. Now, I am not looking for an answer telling me to "start in school plays and local productions" that seems to be the answer everywhere. I live 3 hours from NYC and less than 2 hours from DC and I know that acting/modeling opportunities can be found in both these places. I want specifics though, I'm interested in modeling for ads like Target, Kohls, JCPenney's etc. Do I contact my local store for those and ask for information, or the headquarters? Can I go to an open casting call with no agent and nothing on my resume? What are some good and specific places to go in NYC or DC for someone of my age with little experience? Can I send in some photos/head shots to modeling/acting agencies in NYC and expect a callback? Thank you & I apologize for any confusion you may have on my question(s)

• Answer:

  You'll need professional acting experience before you'll be ready to shop for an agent, since an agent's job is to provide casting directors with proven actors who can show up to jobs knowing exactly what's expected of them. I'd recommend enrolling in classes at a local theater, which will get your foot inside the door. If you show that you're talented and committed to learning and mastering the craft of acting, you'll be considered for roles in upcoming productions. Once you've appeared in a few of those, you'll have the professional experience required to shop for an agent who may be able to find you other work. Unless you live within commuting distance and can get into DC or NY daily for rehearsals and performances, you won't be able to work there. But you can still get professional experience at the local level and take that with you when you're older and move to a bigger market. Big chain stores hire models through agencies, but you probably won't be able to land an agent until you have professional modeling experience. Your best shot at launching a modeling career will be at the local level, as well. If there's a regional store or chain that advertises in your town, inquire about modeling for print ads. That will enable you to build the portfolio you'll probably need to arrange a meeting with a modeling agent. At least 90% of people with "model looks" aren't cut out to be models, so agents don't generally meet with untested, would-be models. But if you have a portfolio showing you've worked in the field, that will give you a leg up on the wannabes. Acting and modeling are like any other careers in that you'll have to start at the bottom and work your way up, proving yourself at every step. Agents in both fields are looking to represent people who show initiative and have laid the foundation for their careers. In the case of actors' agents, that means studying the craft and proving yourself by working your way from bit parts into bigger roles. And just about everyone on TV and in movies started out in theater, since that's about the only place an aspiring actor can learn while gaining the experience needed to access other opportunities. Models' agents need to know you're qualified to be sent into professional work environments, as well. Anyone can select a handful of flattering photos and mail them to an agent, but that's not the same as modeling. But if you show that you've pursued opportunities to prove your capabilities, agents will know you're the real deal and consider representing you. Be careful, since there are more fake agents than real ones. A legitimate agent will NEVER ask for money up front or try to get you to pay for classes, head shots or other promotional materials. That's not how the businesses work. A legitimate agent's job is to provide casting directors or fashion industry people with experienced, professional actors or models -- people who have already trained and worked and know what's expected of them on the job.