Media
Important acting terms to learn
Head shot
A head shot is a picture of yourself that you bring in to auditions with your resume stapled on the back. A good head shot is chest-up with good lighting on your face, and no strong dramatic shadows. The background should be a plain solid color. Now a days, head shots are one of the most important things you need to be as successful as you can be. This is the key to getting noticed for the audition and the best way for agents to remember that actor/actress for future work.
Resume
An actress's resume is a document highlighting your acting experience (TV, film, or theater) and describing your physical appearance. It should include your head shot, your agent's contact info, and your own contact info. You should highlight your unique skills. Your resume should also include the training you did and how you plan on using your skills for that specific role.
Demo reel
Demo reel is a kind of montage of some of your best on-camera work. This video is shown to potential agents, as well as casting directors. Many actors are booked directly from their head shop, resume, and/or demo reel.
Breakdown
A list of types of characters needed to be cast for a project. Agents receive breakdowns and then submit you for an audition if you fit their description. It can include gender, age, ethnicity, personal traits, small character background, and even accents preferred.
Agents
An agent is someone who finds jobs for actors, writers, models, and filmmakers. Your agent supports and defends the interests of their client. They help set up meetings between actors and directors or cast directors. They send actors to auditions and negotiate employment contracts.
