How to Break Into Show Business

Hi! I’m Carey Arban, Owner of AMTC (Actors, Models & Talent Competition). We think AMTC is the best way to break into the industry. OK, I might be prejudiced, so let me back up. Let’s talk about big mistakes that newcomers make who want to be models, actors and entertainers.

Mistake #1: Spend a lot of money on “professional” pictures. Most top modeling agencies want to see digital Polaroid-style photos first. Look at models.com and you can see the types of photos that brand new models get. If you are going to have a professional test, only use a photographer recommended by a major agency. Otherwise, you will probably get something old-fashioned and out-of-date.

Mistake #2: If I am in the right place at the right time with the right people, they will want me and it shouldn’t cost anything. Partly true: professional agencies do not charge a fee to join, but all new talent has expenses to pay, like travel, pictures, or an event (if you can find a good one, which takes some homework).

Mistake #3: Buying into false promises and trusting too easily. Check out a new agency, photographer, or event with the BBB, and look at their history, reputation, and success stories. If it doesn’t “feel” right, it probably isn’t. Also, be very careful of franchise schools and traveling searches. Good ones may exist, but many of them use high-pressured sales and deliver little to nothing.

Mistake #4: Being too “sexy” or over-styled when you go to an audition or an interview. Major agencies, both modeling and talent, want to see you completely fresh faced and natural. Wear no visible makeup. Keep your hair natural. No jewelry or nail polish. Agents want you to be a “blank slate.”

Mistake #5: Buying into Internet representation: You might think this type of representation would help local talent get seen all over the world. Reputable clients (big agencies, magazines, stores, and casting directors) seldom “surf the net” for future stars. Why not? Too many sites exist with tens of thousands of “wannabe” models and actors. Second, they don’t have time. Finally, an agency or client is not going to risk their own reputation in booking unknown talent for a good job. For example, the internet model may not look like her pictures. She may not know what to do. She may be late, undependable, or hard to work with. Clients want to work with talent that is approved, tested, professional, and prepared- those who are listed with reputable agencies. A lot of money is put into a shoot for a TV commercial, fashion shoot, or commercial product.

So, what can you do RIGHT?

Good Idea #1: Take acting, voice, dance or speech classes! They’re just as important for models as they are for actors! Be ready when you meet that “right person!” Big agents are looking for talent that can do as much as possible.

Good Idea #2: Do everything you can to get in front of people safely right in your own home town, such as school, church, or community theatre. You never know who might be watching. In addition, you can build a resume!

Good Idea #3: Stay fit and smart! Keep your body in shape. Keep your mind in shape. Agencies and Casting Directors are looking for high achievers!

Good Idea #4: Audition for everything you can that is reputable, like a magazine contest, a good reality TV show, or a contest sponsored by a major agency. It’s a long shot, but it works for a few people. (Don’t forget good ideas #1,2 & 3 first!)

Good Idea #5: Visit a major agency for Open Calls if you are in town, meet the specifications, and have your “nerve up.” Like #4, it’s a long shot, but it works for a lucky few.

Good Idea #6: Send in snapshots or digitals via the internet to big agencies. Make sure the agency is reputable. OK, it’s another long shot, but sometimes it works. Remember the natural, no makeup, blank-slate look.

Good Idea #7: Always take a parent or responsible adult friend along for a first interview. An objective person can help you make a good decision, as well as protect you if you are in the wrong place at the wrong time!

Good Idea #8: Educate yourself.  Read some good books about acting or modeling. Models Mart in New York City has excellent books and videos.

Good Idea #9: AMTC is the best talent event in the world! OK, I’m prejudiced again, but take a look at our success stories! We have almost 1,000 posted on line (Success Stories and Winner’s Circle), and some of them are very big names!