The Inspirational Actor

Success: Your Only Option

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 03:58:00 +0000

As you all can see, I have been away from my blog for quite some time. Life sometimes hits you and you have to roll with the punches. Once we learn this lesson as artist, we are more likely to continue to pursue our passion until we reach our desired success. As artist, or for anyone in general, life quickly teaches us that success does not come over night, nor does it normally come the way that we expect that it should. Sometime we have to take detours or hiatuses. The key is never giving up. We must readjust and keep pushing. But as we continue to pursue our passions, there are things that we can do to set ourselves up for success:

1: Believe that failure is not an option. Yes we have setback and trials, but consider those moments to be lessons. Learn the lesson and use them to propel yourself to the next level.

2: Understand that real success does not come overnight. If you plan to be a thriving artist, know that paying dues is a large part of the process. It prepares you for what’s to come. Would you give a child a set of matches? No, because it could bring harm to the child and potentially others in close surroundings. The same applies in life sometimes we are not ready to handle the pressure of success, so we must be tested and groomed to handled the ensuing pressures that comes along with accomplishments.

3: Surround yourself with not only great supporters, but also like-minded individuals that you can learn from and grow with. You want to surround yourself with individual with similar goals and dreams.

So, if you’re facing a detour or feeling like a failure, take the time to reflect and learn the lesson. Then get back up with a renewed of strength and push onward. Remember, your success starts with your thoughts, you profess it with your mouth, and it will eventually manifest in your life.

Success Is In Your Hand

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Sun, 24 Jun 2012 13:26:00 +0000

One year again I started a journey. One of which I questioned down to the last moment. I decided to return to school to get my M.S in Entertainment Business. I already have an M.A. in Organizational Management, so of course I questioned the purpose of me getting another degree. I knew that the program was for me, but I questioned the investment, and whether or not I would succeed because it was an online program. But I understood, that sometimes we have to take a leap of faith understanding that if it is His will for your life then he will guide and protect you through the journey.

Well, let’s fast forward. Today I am completing the program at Full Sail University. It was definitely a journey I would not trade in for this world. The program taught me a lot about the entertainment business, and a lot about myself. I have also made great new friends and contacts in the industry and I look forward to working with them some day.

In order to achieve success, you have to push yourself. Know that anything worth having is worth working for. There may be obstacles in the way but you have to choose to move pass them or find a way around them. Just understand that giving up is not an option. You must also understand that sometimes the plan may not happen the way you want or expect it to. On must know that what God has for you is for you, no matter what others may think.

I am passionate about arts and entertainment, acting to be more specific. I understand this is where my success lies. This journey in this industry has definitely strengthened me. There are many times I wanted to walk away, but I understand that that is not an option. When you see those who admire and look up to you expecting great things from you, it cause you to push that much harder to climb the hill of success.

I know that my life is beyond me. This is for all those who are attached to me. They will understand that success does not come easy but does come to those who believe and persevere. My legacy will be one of inspiration to many.

I say to all my acting and entertainment friends continue to push! Success is in your hand.

The Valuable Actor

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Mon, 11 Jun 2012 03:13:00 +0000

Do you know your value? Do you truly understand the value of your gifts and talents? As actors we are constantly faced with rejection. In this industry you will receive many more no’s than yes’s. In this case what do you do? How do you stay inspired? The answer is simple, “Know your worth!”. Just because you are rejected your value doesn’t change. You must continue to push forward until you reach your goals and dreams.

Many times I find myself questioning my value. I constantly ask myself, am I as good as I think I am? Am I as good as my friends that I am? I have been on this journey pursuing acting full time for three long years. Has this pursuit been easy? Definitely nor, but it has definitely taught me many life lessons.

· 1. If you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will.

· 2. If you stop at one failure you will never know if success was next

· 3. Sometime to get what you want, you have to step out of your comfort zone.

· 4.When faced with rejection, know that other opportunities will come.

· 5.You will never taste successful, if you keep chewing on my failures.

To my fellow actors, keep pushing. Your day will come. Then the question becomes “Are you prepared?” In listening to casting director Twinkie Byrd. She said she loves giving actors opportunities, but when given the opportunity she expects you to be prepared. So I would say as you continue to pursue acting, continue to prepare. Preparation is key. Even though, you do not land all your auditions continue to prepare and hone your gifts, you never know when your golden opportunity will come. Most importantly know your worth. Know that though you may not get a role, it does not speak to value of your talents. Your worth never changes.

Success in Business

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Sun, 27 May 2012 19:06:00 +0000

Launching a business in the entertainment industry is not an easy task. There are so many competitors and not only are there competitors but there are companies out there that have less than standard business practices. With having to research competitors and understand which businesses are legitimate it is hard for potential clients to choose.

My desire is that my business stands out from the rest. MMA Talent Management Services will be a business that actors flock to because of the professionalism and care for our clients. In creating my business plan and researching other successful entrepreneurs I have learned some vital keys that will help with the success of MMA.

1. Your business logo should be simple and sleek. Your logo is the first thing that people see. It is what usually determines whether or not a potential client will do more research to see if they want to do business with you.

2. Your slogan must be unique and catchy. Your slogan sells your business. It should sum up what you the major goal of your company is in a unique. Your slogan should make your clients say I want to be a part of that company.

3. Have a great business. Your business plan is vital to the success of your business. A great business plan is well mapped out and gives a detailed overview of your company and what steps you plan to take to ensure the company’s success.

4. Passion about your business. To ensure success of your business one must have passion. Passion means your believe in the product and are willing to take all necessary steps to ensure the success of your company and clients.

MMA will have all of these things upon launching. Our unique services and services and quality of service will have actors flocking to our business. MMA’s stance on integrity and morality will give actors of faith a home to grow and be encourage while pursuing their acting career.

Pursuing your Passion

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 23:10:00 +0000

How much are you willing to endure to pursue your passion and achieve your goals. Each day as actors we are bombarded with many naysayers who believe we should quit and get “a real job”. In their mind we are in pursuit of a childhood fantasy, and they never stop to realize that the actors they see in their favorite movies, were once in our shoes. So the question becomes how important is it to you, and what are you will to endure to reach your goal?

This became a reality to me recently as I wanted to just walk away. No one enjoys struggling. Not knowing when your day is coming is not an easy pill to swallow. But I realized that if I quit, I give others the victory. Quitting for me is not an option. As I began to reaffirm to myself that my day will come, I was invited to attend the OmegaKayne Intensive Acting Class. This is where reality sat in for me. Through this class I realized how bad I really wanted to be an actor.

This class for me was a game changer. My mental definitely met my physical. It was nothing like I had every experienced. As we recited our material in the assigned dialect, our bodies were pushed to the limit. The monologues were life-changing affirmations. I began to understand that wanting it was not enough, but I had to be bold and go get it. Act like I deserve the opportunity more than the next person. It is about leaving an impression.

I was in search of someone who was going to stretch me, who was going to be brutally honest with me and push me beyond my limits. This class is where I found it. I would suggest this class for any actor who is serious about their craft. You must definitely be willing to be challenged. If you are not ready to be told the truth then this is not for you.

My Advice:
1. Seek out a class where you will be challenge.
2. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and will push you to be your best.
3. Embrace the idea that "Quitters Never Win".

If you are an Atlanta actor and would like more information on OmegaKayne's class email inquiries to omegakayneintensive@gmail.com

Me reciting I AM in a South African Dialect

Jenna Fischer’s Advice To Actors

Video Submission: Submitting the best you!

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 02:33:00 +0000

Have you ever had an audition that required video submission? I am sure many of you have. With technology constantly growing more and more we are required to do video submissions as opposed to walking into an audition. So one can conclude that if this is the current trend, then we as actors should learn how to sell ourselves via video submissions. There are things that you can do to increase your chances of landing the role or being asked in. One just must understand how to properly record a video submission.

By doing video submissions you have the opportunity to send in the best possible audition. You can tape your submission multiple times to get the one that shows you best. Make sure you know your lines and are not holding the sides. By doing a video submission you have a greater opportunity to build your character. Here are some additional tips to help you create a great video submission.

Don’t:

1. Film in a busy background, ie. Outside, in your kitchen, in the bathroom. The only time you want to use on location shots is in case of reality show audition, where you are asked to show your life.

2. Film in a place with lots of background noise. You will be amazed at what microphones pick up

3. Create a video with props. It’s all about you.

4. Use your cell phone. Yes there are phones that are creating great quality videos, but try to avoid using a cell phone if at all possible

5. Include other people. The director wants to see you and you only.

Do:

1. Use a plain background. A plain wall will do just fine. If you like you can do a blue, black, or green plain background.

2. Do a few takes to see what kind of background noise is being picked up. You also want to see if you can be heard clearly.

3. Make sure your reader, reads softly.

4. Your video is still and it is cropped so that your faced can be seen clearly.

5. If you must use an i-phone make sure you videotape if from a landscape point of view, to avoid your video being narrow.

Here is a video submission that I did May, 2011.

Diversify

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Sun, 18 Mar 2012 19:53:00 +0000

As an actor, I like many others are still waiting for that dream role. Unless you’re one of the few, most of us will not ever achieve this dream. I know it’s depressing but it is reality. There are so many actors in the world, and not nearly as many opportunities. So how do we over come this barrier?

One of the easiest ways is to create it for our self. We must embark upon writing and producing our own materiel to present to our audience. If you’re anything like me I am not much for writing. I made a vow to myself that I would keep a sane estimate of my abilities. In doing so I know that writing is not my forte, but I love directing and producing.

Sure I have great ideas for scripts, but how do I get them written. The answer to that is to write down your ideas and find writers who want to write the story. This is where collaboration comes in. In the entertainment business, it is not always what you know, but who you know. That is why it is important to build relationships with individuals in every arena of the business.

As an actor you must be versed in more than one part of the business. That is why many actors turn, to other areas in the business to supplement their career. Many actors are now writers, directors, producers, teachers etc. So as you grow your career as an actor I advise you to expand your versatility, not just as actor, but as a person in the entertainment industry. An actor only focuses on acting but a person in the entertainment industry understands all facets of the industry. So my tip is: DON’T SIT AND WAIT, GO OUT AND CREATE.

Below are some great articles I read about famous actors who have become directors and producers.

http://www.boston.com/ae/movies/gallery/directingactors/

http://www.examiner.com/acting-in-national/thirtysomething-actors-keep-moving-act-produce-direct

http://www.photoplayerhater.com/actors-who-made-movie

Are You Getting In Your Own Way?

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 04:36:00 +0000

Dear Sir or Madame:

I am in search of representation. I do not have much experience, but I know that I have the talent to book jobs.

Dear Sir or Madam:

Please publish my screenplay because I know that this story is awesome. I began writing it when I was 15 and my mother said it was great.

Many people do not understand the importance of a cover letter. Your cover letter is your sales pitch. It is what makes an agent want to bring you in and learn more about you. Often people kill their efforts before they get started simply by having a lack luster cover letter. As artist our goal is to find someone to represent us. We go through the painstaking process of mailing out packages in hopes of finding someone who will take an interest in us.

Wouldn’t it be a shame to waist all that time and money never to get a response all because we could not sell ourselves in a cover letter? Your cover letter is your first impression. And as your mother always said, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression”. So I would suggest spending just as much time on your cover letter as you put into your resume or screenplay. Do the research. Understand what makes a cover letter great.

Due to technology many times we are submitting electronically, but some submissions still require snail mail. But whether submitting electronically or standard mailing make sure that your cover letter is sparking.

· Make sure it highlights the positive, and why and agent would want to invest in you.

· Have friend proof it for you.

· Ask yourself, if I were reading this letter would I be interested in it.

http://www.backstage.com/bso/reviews-movie-tv-reviews/secret-agent-man-on-actors-blind-submission-1006402952.story

http://www.articlesbase.com/publishing-articles/the-importance-of-writing-a-good-query-letter-2652620.html

The Importance of Intellectual Property

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 04:01:00 +0000

In the entertainment industry there's alway topic pertaining to intellectual property (IP). Many times companies engage in suits because of copyright infringement. Laws are in place to protect companies from infringement. Companies want to protect their name and their things unique to their company, so that they protect their profit and company image. The are many lawsuit currently in the judicial system due to piracy. Companies are trying to find way to curb piracy and protect their assets. In this blog I will look at three specific cases dealing with IP infringement in the film and television industry.

I. Currently there are major television and film studios filing suite against Limewire due to infringement. Limewire recently settled a suite with major music companies to the tune of $105 million, due to infringement. The suite claims that Limewire allowed movies and videos to be illegally downloaded. When videos and movies are illegally downloaded, company lose potential profits. The complaint cites more than 2,000 television shows and movies that were infringed by Lime Wire users, including episodes of "SpongeBob SquarePants," "South Park," "Desperate Housewives" and "Lost," as well as movies such as "Harry Potter," "Stardust" and "The Dark Knight,"(Leonhardt, 2012).

II. Hurt Locker has also been the subject of many law suites due to illegal file sharing. Currently there are law suites in the US and Canada. Canadians stand to lose more because they have tougher laws than the US. In Canada they can pay up to $20,000 for copyright infringement. Though this would look like a win for movie producers, they still lose because the laws do little to protect companies from copyright infringement.

III. Lastly there is currently a British gentleman waiting extraction to the US to face copyright infringement charges. The charges allege that he created a website that directed people to illegal download sites. 23 year college student Richard O'Dwyer said"he undertook TV Shack as a project to improve his skills and job marketability." According to the Deadline Team "No British citizen has ever been extradited to the United States for a copyright offense".

As you can see the film industry is trying to take necessary steps to make sure that their works or protected. Copyright infringement not only hurts filmmakers it hurts you and I as actors also. When movies are pirated it takes away from our residual income. So I applaud the film industry for trying to take steps to put an end to piracy and copyright infringement.

The Importance of Knowing Your Craft

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 04:05:00 +0000

Many people are self-proclaimed actors. When asked where did or do you study. Many will say “I don’t I just get on stage and do it”. My response to that is, imagine how much better you would be if you actually studied and understood the craft of acting. People assume that acting is just getting on the stage or getting behind the camera and role playing, but it is not. It is so much more. It is an emotionally journey that must be traveled with care, so that the actor can safely return to his/her originally emotional state. Deep right?! I know! That is why as actors we must seek out classes that offer us a safe place so that we hone our gifts.

For believability and actor must really be in the moment at all times. In class you learn how to be in the moment. Sometimes our character requires us to go an angry place, in going there we have to pull on past experiences that will take us to that emotional state. Studying in a safe place allows you to go there, but your instructors also know how to bring you back. This is very important because sometimes as actors we must learn how to shake off those emotion or because we can bring those emotions into our personal life and it can affect those close to us.

Also in knowing your craft you must understand the different acting methods and know what works best for you. There are also exercises that actors do to help with voice, diction, concentration, and connecting with other actors. All of these things help you grow as actor. I am a strong advocate for education, it brings out the best in you, or it lets you know if you are not cut out for this. So my suggestion is to research acting classes in your area. See you can audit before you sign up, because all classes are not created equal. Find a class that works for you and will nurture your growth as actor.

Are You Ready For A Manager?

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 22:37:00 +0000

You're an actor, so are many other people. What makes you stand out? What put you above the rest? Just because you are talented does not necessarily mean you are marketable. As an actor you have to understand your niche. Are you a leading actor or a character actor? Once you understand which one you are this will help you better market yourself.

As an actor have you thought long term? Everyone wants to make it, but making it requires a lot of you, because your life is no longer your own. As hard as many actors try, it is almost impossible to have a private life. Everything you do is under scrutiny. That is why it is imperative to map out your career and assess many aspects of your life early on.

With a great manager on your side these are things that they will be able to help you address. A great manager helps you highlight your strengths. They market you according to your strength. They also understand your direction and where you are trying to take your career. They are very helpful in providing information to get you in that direction. Their job is to help take your career to the next level and to help you produce longevity in your career.

Do all actors need managers? The correct answer is no. Most actors will only have agents through out their careers. But those who have long-standing careers and see their career as a business will want to employ the help of a reputable agent. According to SAG, "Managers are neither franchised nor regulated by Screen Actors Guild. And they are rarely regulated by state law."

My advice is to weigh all your options before getting and choosing a manager. In choosing a manager make sure it is someone you trust and has a reputable reputation. Lastly make sure it is someone who has your best interest in mind and is just as committed to your career as you are.

Acting: Stage vs. Film

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 04:58:00 +0000

Many new and aspiring actors do not understand the difference between acting on stage versus acting for the camera. Yes there is a difference and I have learned this from experience. They require some of the same effort and technique but they are fundamentally different. So as an actor you have to decide which type of actor you are or will you try to master them both?

Stage actors are very big. They build characters and bring them to life on stage. Doing this requires you to be open and often over the top. It requires big use of the body because the message the character is trying to deliver must reach the whole audience. On stage you have on time to get it right, so you must always be in the moment. It requires the actor to build the character in the presence of the audience to take them on the journey.

Film actors are less dramatic. Film acting is being natural. Because the camera picks up every nuance, the actor must always tell the truth. Stage requires lots of facial emotion and big movements. On camera, less is more. There has to be a certain stillness for the camera. Film is not always shot in sequence so it requires more of the actor to stay in character. Also with constant repetition an actor must work to be believable and have the same delivery every time.

Many actors are unable to make the transition from stage to camera. It definitely takes lots of work and training. You must also have a great understanding of both. Stage actors have to learn that less is more, but without making themselves look dry and unbelievable on camera. There are also many film actors who find it hard to transition to the stage. Because they are used to the stillness needed for camera it is hard for them to embrace a full body character and all the emotions required for the stage.

As you continue your acting journey, define what time of actor your are or create a plan to conquer both.

How To Become An Actor

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 20:38:00 +0000

Becoming an actress, does not happen over night, not unless you are in the .01 percentile with very good luck. Acting takes time, patience and money. How are much are you willing to invest? You are only as good and the product you market. Becoming an actor means taking acting classes which could range from $75-$125 a month. Some of us get a degree in theatre and we all know that degrees do not come cheap. You must also invest in quality headshots. These sitting range from $100-$300 depending on the photographer. You then have to consider the cost of reproduction of you headshots. Remember quality is important because these are your calling cards, the things that will get you into the audition.

Often I meet people who want to be actors but they don’t understand the cost or are not willing to invest in themselves to put their best foot forward. People must remember that acting is a job. A great example is , why would I apply to an IT position, but I have never studied computers technology. I know I like computers, and I think I can do it, so I think I will apply, this formula does not equal success. Below are a couple of tips that will help you on your journey to become an actor.

1. Ask yourself why is it that you want to act? Is it just something fun to do, or is it your passion?

2. Take a few classes. This will help you get a better understanding of acting and whether or not it is something you want to pursue

3. Continue taking classes. Learn the craft. Understand the difference between theatre, and acting on camera for film vs. commercial.

4. Invest in quality headshots. (You pay for what you get) Remember this is what they see before they meet you, so your pictures must sell you.

5. Invest in quality reproduction of headshots.

6. Start building your resume

a. Audition for community theatre

b. Audition for student films

7. Once you are studied and have starting building a resume, begin submitting to agents. Do an internet search to see which agents are excepting new clients. You can also send a potential agent comp tickets to one of your upcoming shows so that they can see you in action.

With Patience & Persistance, May you find success!!!

Misha Moore

How to be Successful

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 07:21:00 +0000

As artist we all want to be successful, but many do know how to be successful. As I listened to a speech by Richard St. John, a success analyst, I was inspired to share this with you. His speech focused on 8 Secrets of Success. According to St.John, through research and interviews he found the big eight secrets that would lead to success. As I listened I was inspired because I agreed with his principles. As I continued to digest the information he had just disseminated, I realized his eight secrets to success coincided with biblical principles. So I set out to find scriptures that were directly related to the 8 secrets that he shared. For many who view his video they will just receive the 8 secrets, but I wanted something deeper. A greater understanding of how these 8 secrets could be applied to the biblical principles in which many of us believe.

In this industry we are constantly faced with rejection. But when you know that you are walking in your purpose, you need little reminders to help you keep your focus. I encourage all of you to look at the 8 secrets and keep them as a daily reminder that success is around the corner. Not because Richard St. Johns say so, but because of WHOSE YOU ARE!

1. Passion: Proverbs 18:16 We all have talents and if we use them properly we will not have lack in our life.

2. Work: II Thessalonians3:10 In order to survive we must all work, but when you are doing your passion it never feels like work.

3. (Good) Practice: Matthew 7:24 Practice means to do repetitively in an effort to get better. When we practice continually we are building a strong foundation for our gifts.

4. Focus: Proverbs 23:7 Concentrated focus. Focus on one thing at a time and master it. Always let your thought be positive. You can achieve whatever you put your mind to.

5. Push: II Timothy 2: Never give up. We have to push to fear, shyness and all other inhibitors to reach success.

6. Serve: I Peter 4:10 Never be selfish. Serve others and watch doors begin to open for you.

7. Idea: John 18:34 Have your own ideas. Know for yourself. Create your own path

8. Persistence: Romans 2:7 If you fall get back up. No success is overnight. Keep going now matter what, because success will soon follow if you keep the course.

Keep Pushing,

Misha Moore

Agent vs. Manager

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:29:00 +0000

How are you being represented? As an actor you have either an agent or a manager. Some may be fortunate to have both, but this is definitely not without cost. Most people starting out do not understand the difference between an agent and a manager. They are definitely not the same and should never be confused. What’s the difference you ask? Well let’s take a look at the task of each:

Agent:

Any actor wanting to have a thriving career seeks out an agent. An agent’s primary function is to send you on auditions. They get you work. They should never be paid up front. Agents will get ten to fifteen percent of each job that you book. Many agents will sign you to an exclusive one year contract. (A later blog will focus on exclusive vs. non-exclusive contracts). It is imperative to seek out a reputable SAG-Franchised agency because they understand that when you book a job they get paid. Also, this is why it is important for actors to have proper marketing materials and training because a reputable agency will not sign you if they feel that you will not benefit their company.

Manager:

A manager handles the daily affairs of an actor. They deal with press- releases, signing, appearances, and negotiations. Managers handle the overall career of an actor. Most actors will not have managers until they are well established and are in high demand. As an actor it is hard to prepare for auditions and work on projects all while managing daily affairs. A manager gets a higher percentage than and agent does. A manager receives fifteen to twenty percent commission. The actor and manager must always be on the same page about the direction of the career of the actor in order for it to be a successful relationship.

For actors just starting out I suggest getting great headshots, training, and experience in community theatre and independent films. Once you have established yourself begin to research reputable talent agencies in your area. Check out their websites and see who is accepting new talent and begin submitting yourself.

I found this informative video and hopes that it helps you as you seek out and agent.

Continue to shoot for the moon,

Misha Moore

Finding Work

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Sun, 18 Sep 2011 22:59:00 +0000

How many of you are self management artist? Many times without an agent it can be a little frustrating trying to find work. This week we will focus on a few websites that every actor needs to visit daily. These sites provide casting breakdowns and are updated daily. I am sure that all regions have their own localized sites, but we are going to look at some national sites and also sites specific to the southeast region.

1. Playbill: If you want to be on Broadway or to be part of an international or US national touring company, Playbill.com's Casting and Job Listings is a MUST WATCH site and it’s totally FREE. Thousands of job seekers have found opportunities through this service, and you can, too!
Manually log in and check this site at least once a day to check updates. Postings are primarily for theatre. Searchable for performance opportunities, admin and tech jobs, classes and other categories of work. Searchable by state and province. (Note: search only NY if you’re primarily interested in New York City/Broadway based or tour co work).

2. Actoraccess: My agent referred me to this site. Many agents use this site to submit their actors, but as actors we can get the breakdowns and submit ourself for a minimal charge. Actors Access is the tool by which actors can see those roles and opportunities CDs want actors to have access to – hence the name.

FREE to register. Annual fee for upgraded service. Check site for details. By registering, you also put your profile into the Breakdown Express database which is searched by Casting Directors when they are searching the database looking for specific talent.

As a registered Actors Access user, you can post two photos for free and additional photos for a per/each fee. In addition, you can freely swap out either or both of your two free photos as often as you wish with new photos. Create and maintain your online resume that is accessible to casting whenever you make a submission. This resume is also linked to via your agent or manager if you are represented, thus updating your resume for 'everyone' at one time is fast and easy.

When reviewing the Breakdowns that casting has posted for actors on Actors Access, as a registered user you have the ability to make direct electronic submissions to casting for roles listed that fit your Profile and casting's requirements.

3. THESOUTHERNCASTINGCALL: It is free to register this site. This site is great for someone who is just starting out in the industry. It provides information on breakdowns for different regions. This site is completely free, you just have to register to get access. It list breakdown for many states in the southeast it also has other valuable forums. There you can seek out agents, have general discussions, and get referrals for classes and training.

These are only a few of the sites that are available to actors. I encourage any actor who is serious about their career to research these site. I would also suggest doing all the research that you can because there are so many sources available to you.

Misha Moore

Let's Get Connected

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 02:04:00 +0000

Here in Atlanta there is a great monthly event called Get Connected. It is an entertainment industry mixer that has taken the city by storm. In January it start with about 200 attendees, in July the attendance swelled to an awesome 1250-1500 attendees. This event is for anyone in the industry. It is where everyone connects writers, investors, producers, actors, editors, directors, musician all meet and connect for the evening. The event takes place every fourth Thursday of the month.
Each month is a different theme. Last month focused on media and marketing and this months focus will be on investing. Get Connected is a non-profit that also gives back to the community from the proceeds raised at the events. This event has brought out many celebrities. Each month there are screenings of short films that were produce in the city. There are also host who do interviews for Get Connected TV.
I have the opportunity to attend this event as an attendee and as volunteer. The last three months I have been able to serve as one of the volunteer coordinators. I am able to see first hand what goes into to making events like these happen. The facility has to be secured, vendors must be organized, food must be secured, volunteers need to be organized, screening have to be selected, and the list goes on. There are production meetings and venue walk through the week of the event. I now understand the importance of having a great team in place. This event would not be possible if not for great teams and proper planning.
This is a great event for anyone in GA who is in the entertainment industry. Where else can you go and meet so many industry professionals. In July there were representative from SAG Atlanta, AFTRA, and The Grammys. This event offers great exposure for up and coming artist. In June a lady attended and within a weeks she was hired by Turner Broadcasting, which later caused Get Connected to be honored by the Mayor of Atlanta.

So I say if you are in Atlanta come out and GET CONNECTED!

Misha

Are You Dressed for Success

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 16:37:00 +0000

This is a topic I have been wanting to address for a very long time. Each time I attend an audition or an industry mixer, I want to pull ladies young and old to the side and say What were you thinking?. I see so many fashion faux pas that it is nauseating. Ok, maybe I'm exaggerating a little, but it is disheartening to say the least. Dressing overly provocative will not enhance your chances of getting a role. As a mattering of fact you may be hurting yourself.
There are important things that men should consider also when dressing for an audition. Clothes that are are too big hide who you are. Actors must understand that people see you before they get a chance to meet and hear you. What impression would you like for person to have when they first lay eyes on you. Also it is not always necessary to dress in character for an audition, showing up in a witch costume is not necessary not unless they specifically ask for it. Here are a list of things that will help improve your first impression:

Make up should be used to enhance, not to make you look fake.
If you have to keep tugging on your skirt so that it does not rise so that people can see your unmentionables, don't wear it.
A little cleavage is ok, but if your shirt is tight or too small and your girls are about to reveal themselves, save that for a hot date.
If your heels are too high and you can not walk with ease, then you should not wear them.
If you are wearing a white shirt, then a bright pink bra is not acceptable.
Don't wear clothing that are too big.
Ripped jeans are do not make a good impression
Don't wear things that are overly flashy or shiny
Try to refrain from black and white

Fashion Do's Other Professional Tips

Do wear clothing that is appropriate. Professional attire say a lot about you.
Wear heels that are comfortable and allow you to move with ease.
Wear colors that enhance your eyes and skintone.
Wear soft tone makeup that enhances your natural beauty.
Men wear clothes that fit.
Wear simple colors

I love how casting Director Marci Liroff put in her video blog. She states showing us how you dress show us how you think.

Much Success,

Misha

Auditioning 101

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 02:06:00 +0000

Ok, you've just been invited to an audition, so what now? As an actor auditioning is our interview. Just as others prepare for the questions that may be asked in an interview, we as actors must prepare by knowing the material given to us. There will be times that you are given sides in advance, there will be other time when you are asked to do a cold reading. No matter what you are given, you must be prepared at all times.

Your audition does not begin when you enter the auditioning room, it begins as soon as you arrive.
Timeliness is very important arrive about 15min early just as you would for a corporate interview.
Dress for success. Yes as an actor you must dress in a certain manner. There will be a complete blog on this subject.
Be professional at all times. You never know who’s watching you in the holding area.
Know your material. If you are given sides in advance, know them. If you are cold reading, take a minute to absorb it, and then don’t be afraid to make bold choices.
How many times have I heard it from casting directors, and have said it to others when I casting NEVER APOLOGIZE!
Never reach to shake hands with the casting director or anyone at the table unless they reach out to you.

The attached link give a few tips on auditioning. The video at the bottom also reiterate my point that your audition starts as soon as you walk in.

http://www.actingbiz.com/articles/auditioning_tips.php

One of my acting coaching told me “ Don’t go to get the job, go to do the job.” That was one of the best tips she gave me. My other coach told me, “Always be in the moment”. These are only a few tips to get you started on the path to acing your audition. The next few post will discuss auditioning more in depth.

Until Next week,

Misha Moore

Blogging A New Thing

noreply@blogger.com (Misha Moore) — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 04:29:00 +0000

Ok, I've always been told that I have a way with words, I guess this is finally my chance to share my words with the world. Hopefully this blog will be informational, inspiring, and transforming to all of those seeking to have a successful acting career

First Note:
You will not be an over night success! LOL. Not unless you are just plain old lucky. You have a better chance at winning the lottery.

It takes hard work and dedication to be successful in this field. Unlike others who interview and get a job, we never stop interviewing. Auditioning is our interview process and as long as you are an actor you will always have to interview. Whether it is twice a month or twice a week, you will always be out there auditioning for your next job.

So, I encourage you to keep preparing because you never know what's the next role you may land. Always be prepare for your audition (We will discuss that more in depth later).

Break A Leg,
Misha