The Pros and Cons of Working in Reality TV

The Pros and Cons of Working in Reality TV

Do you have your sights set on a career in front of the camera in Hollywood? If you do, you may experience a few bumps along the way. Yes, it is more than possible to become a famous Hollywood actor or actress, but the ride can be very bumpy. That is why many hopeful actors and actresses search for the easiest way to break into the industry. For many, that starts with reality TV. But, is it your best option?

One of the many pros or plus sides to getting started with reality television is that it is fairly easy to do so. Yes, you still have to compete with hundreds of thousands of other men and women who want to be in front of the camera, but getting an audition is much easier for this line of work than say a well-known Hollywood movie. Open casting calls are common and they aren’t just for an extra that will barely be on screen for less than five minutes.

On that same note, you may notice a slight decrease in open casting calls for reality television shows. This is due in part to those already with a name in the business. Especially on cable television, you will find that shows are often based around an already famous person or family. The Two Coreys, Kimora: Life in the Fab Lane, Gene Simmons Family Jewels, and Dog the Bounty Hunter are a few examples. Reality television shows that tend to act as a game show, like Amazing Race or The Bachelor, are often your best bet. For example, Rock of Love 2 starred Bret Michaels, but casting calls were sent out for women.

The doors that may open for you after becoming a reality television star are another pro or plus side to getting started in this line of work. Yes, a large number of reality television stars have slipped off the radar, but some are in front of the cameras just about everyday.

Did you know that Elisabeth Hasselback, a co-host on The View, was actually a contestant on Survivor? She was. A few other well-known reality TV stars that you may know include Omarosa from The Apprentice, Bob Guiney from The Bachelor and Bachelorette, and Lauren Conrad, Heidi Montag, and Spencer Pratt, all from the Hills. These are all reality television stars who have gone on to have relatively successful careers in front of the camera, as well with paid advertisements.

Although a number of doors can open for you after staring in a reality television show, those doors may not be what you were hoping for. Many reality TV stars find themselves behind the camera again, but often for just another reality television show. Of course, it is important to remember that your goals, drive, and determination will have a lot to do with your success. If you aim your sights higher than reality TV, you may meet your goals.

If you would like to try staring in a reality television show, it is important to always be on the lookout for open auditions or casting calls. While you do not need to have an agent, you do need to know where to look. For starters, checkout the online websites of your favorite reality television shows and networks. Open auditions may be outlined. Also, some shows, like ABC’s Wife Swap, allow you to nominate yourself with an online form.

As for how to ensure you see success, such as landing a part on a reality television show, it depends. What is the theme of the show? Be yourself, but also try to be what casting directors are looking for, such as someone with a sense of humor or someone with a sarcastic tone. Also, it doesn’t hurt to be attractive and fit. In fact, many casting directors claim that if you aren’t, you better have a good personality.

Reality television can be a great way for you to get your foot in that Hollywood door, but do remember that it does have its pros and cons.

How to Work in Hollywood and Avoid Scams?

Do you want to work in Hollywood? If so, you may be willing to do just about anything to make it big. Yes, it is important to strive for success, but you need to proceed with caution. Do not let desperation get the best of you, as it leaves you open to Hollywood scams.

Before focusing on a few ways that you can make it big in Hollywood and avoid scams, it is important to know what those scams are. Hollywood scams come in a number of different formats, but all can be harmful to your finances and your career.

The biggest scam to be on the lookout for is fake talent agencies. These agents tend to target parents of aspiring child actors, but anyone can fall victim. Does a “talent agent,” approach you in a public place? If so, use caution. Accept their contact information, but never agree to representation or pay upfront first. Anyone who pressures you to pay on the spot is likely trying to scam you. They want to prevent you from returning home and researching their name or company online.

In keeping with talent agencies that may try to take your money and run, they may use other steps. One of those steps is selling a photograph package for thousands of dollars. Yes, you want to pay for quality photographs, but you shouldn’t have to do it through the agency. In fact, most legitimate Hollywood agents let you get your headshots and other photographs done elsewhere. Some will give you the option of using their in-house photographer, but it should never be a requirement. Quality, professional photographs are needed, but they can be purchased for much less than thousands or even hundreds of dollars.

Now that you know a couple of the Hollywood scams that exist, it is important to focus on how you can avoid them. The best way to do so is to use your best judgment. Yes, you may land a big break by being spotted by someone important, but look for warning signs. If a director or an agent in a public place notices you, they will simply just give you their contact information and move on. No extreme amounts of pressure will or should be applied.

Another easy way for you to avoid Hollywood scams is to do the research first. Whether you were approached by an agent or not, use the internet to your advantage. Always, research Hollywood agents and agencies online. Do so with their company name. Look for positive and negative reviews. Someone always has something negative to say, but look over excessive amount of negative reviews or the outright use of the word scam. There are many Hollywood scams out there, but there are even more legitimate opportunities for you. You just need to know how to find them and the internet can be a helpful tool.

The above mentioned Hollywood scam examples were geared towards actors. However, aspiring actors and actresses are not the only individuals who can fall victim to a Hollywood scam. Are you an aspiring writer? Guard your work with your life. Only submit your screenplay to reputable and well-known literary agents and studio networks. In fact, that is why a professional and reputable literary agent should represent you. He or she can tell you where to submit your work to. If you are not careful, it could end up in the hands of a scammer. This person may try to sell your words as their own.

One of the best ways for you to avoid scams in Hollywood is to find quality representation. If you are an actor, look for an acting agent. If you are an aspiring writer, hire a literary agent. Research is needed to find the perfect agent, but that work will pay off in the end. An agent can show you how to avoid Hollywood scams by giving you inside information and leading you in the direction of legitimate opportunities.

How to Stay Focused When Seeking a Hollywood Career?

Do you want to work in Hollywood? Whether you want to work as a writer, as an actor, or in another position behind the scenes, it is important to stay focused. Making it big in Hollywood is possible, but it can also be a long and complicated process. During that time, many hopeful Hollywood stars find themselves distracted and see their dream of becoming a Hollywood star slip away. So, how can you make sure this doesn’t happen to you?

One tip that many hopefully Hollywood stars hear is to start out prepared. This tip involves finances. In media, you could go a year to five years or more before landing your first job. That is why you should have a safety net of money saved. You will also want to continue working while searching for media related opportunities. On that same note, don’t forget your dream.

If you relocate to Hollywood or the surrounding area, you may find yourself working as a waiter, waitress, or bartender. These are popular part-time jobs, as the tips are nice and the hours tend to be flexible. With that said, it is easy to get caught up in the money. If you are satisfied with working in retail or in restaurants for the rest of your life, good for you, but don’t let your dream slip away from you. With learning how to properly balance your time, you could easily work a part-time or even a full-time job while still perusing a career in Hollywood.

If you need an extra push to help keep you focused on your Hollywood dream, take classes in your spare time. This is recommended if you have no formal acting or screenwriting experience. It also looks good on a resume. If you have been auditioning for small television or movie parts and do not see positive results, consider perfecting your trade with an acting or screenwriting class.

If you aren’t originally from the Hollywood area, one thing you will notice when you arrive is that everyone seems to have the best of the best. This is mostly concerning clothes. Yes, you want to look the part of a professional, yet trendy actor or screenwriter, but don’t get too caught up in all the hype. Striving to have the latest fashions can leave you broke. Although fashion is important in the media industry, the work you produce is even more important.

To improve your chances of making it big in Hollywood, you are encouraged to network. This involves professionals in the industry and other hopeful stars. The information shared and learned can help you catch your next big break. But, it is important to choose the crowd you associate with wisely. Those who don’t stay focused on the bigger picture often find themselves in trouble. This trouble may include drugs or alcohol. If you are serious about being the next best Hollywood actor or screenwriter, don’t let anything stand in your way.

What is difficult about working in Hollywood, especially as an aspiring actor or actress is that work tends to come and go. For example, you could have work for three months then be unemployed for the following three. If you aren’t finically prepared, you may find yourself examining other avenues of making money while still in front of the camera. This is okay, but make your choice wisely. Those who turn to pornographic films often regret their decisions. They sometimes find it difficult to get out of, due to the pay, and embarrassing to admit on a professional resume. Instead, working as a fully clothed model may be best to generate additional income.

As a recap, getting started in Hollywood can be a long and complicated process. Do not let the distractions along the way prevent your dreams from becoming a reality. The more focused you are on becoming a star, the more likely it is to happen.

How to Make Sure An Acting Agent Choosing You?

Are you interested in becoming the next big Hollywood star? If you are, you will want to have an agent in your corner. Yes, it is possible to find acting jobs on your own, but did you know that many major television and movie studios rely on agents to do the “dirty,” work for them. That so called dirty work involves sorting through qualified and unqualified candidates.

Since you now know the importance of being represented by a Hollywood agent, you may be wondering how to find them. The good news is that you have a number of different options. One of the most popular approaches is to use the internet. This is okay, but use your best judgment. Just because someone has a nice, professional website, it does not mean that they are a legitimate talent agent or a good one.

In keeping with finding a Hollywood agent to represent you as an aspiring actor, you have two options that are referred to as your best bets. These options involve networking and purchasing printed guides. In terms of printed guides, there is the Hollywood Representation Directory among others. As for asking others, inquire about casting agencies from those who you meet along the way, such as in an acting class.

Now that you know how to find a Hollywood casting agent, you may be ready to get started. But wait! There is one important step you must first take. That step involves preparing. Never meet with a casting agent or agency without first developing a plan. You may be surprised to hear that casting agents actually choose you. So how do you make sure they do?

Always be prepared when meeting with an agent. Know what is needed and expected of you ahead of time. If specific requests weren’t made, use your head. For example, bring a headshot of yourself, prepare a monologue, bring a copy of your resume, and so forth. On that same note, agencies will usually tell you ahead of time what is required of you. If not, ask, as it cannot hurt.

Another easy way to make sure you are selected for representation by a Hollywood agent is to avoid making common mistakes. As previously stated, the biggest mistake you can make is being unprepared. Next, not acting interested or acting too interested can hurt you. Be yourself. Leave the acting for when you are asked to read sample lines.

As a test, many acting and talent agencies ask to you to talk about yourself, such as what brought you to Hollywood. Some say the worst thing you can do is recite your resume word for word. Be creative. Tell a little creative story. With that said, if credentials or experience is involved, do not over-exaggerate. Talk about your high school or college play with excitement.

After meeting with an agent, you may hear “we will get back to you later.” This does not necessarily mean no. So, use this to your advantage. Send a quick reminder note in a few weeks or months. With that reminder note, include tickets or information for a local performance you will be in. Some agents and agencies only accept a limited number of new clients each month.

Most importantly, examine the specialties of all agents you are interested in. For example, some deal only with children, teenagers, or adults. Some Hollywood agents are considered literary agents, meaning they only work with screenwriters. There are also those who specialize in leading roles, secondary roles, movies, and television. Find the match that is the perfect fit for you.

The above mentioned steps are just a few of the many that you can and should take. Since a Hollywood agent essentially decides if he or she wants to represent you, it is important that you sell yourself. Through confidence and research, you can have an agent believe it is a mistake not to represent you.

How to Become a Hollywood Writer?

Do you want to become a big Hollywood star? If so, you may have dreams other than working in front of the camera. Although acting tends to receive the most attention, there is another important job in Hollywood. That job is screenwriting. If you want to become a paid Hollywood writer, please continue reading on for helpful tips.

Take a writing class. Generally, in Hollywood, your story is more important than your grammar, but it can have an impact on your work. No one wants to read a script that is full of errors. In fact, too many errors and your script may find a new home in the trashcan. So, know your grammar.

If you are a high school student, opt for electives that are related to media. Is there an advanced English class available? If so, it can help you perfect your writing. What about a video editing class? Even if you aren’t looking to become an actor or actress, anything media related can help to further your career down the road. After all, these classes look good on a resume.

As previously stated, take a writing class. Writing classes come in a number of different formats. You can find one evening class or a course that lasts a week or longer. They are affordable and offered by many state and community colleges, as well as vocational training centers. A degree can help, but isn’t always required to make it in the business. Many times, good writing talent can make up for a lack of education.

Next, watch as many television shows and movies as possible. This isn’t something that is usually recommended, but it can help to further your career as a Hollywood writer. Watch popular movies and television shows and the compare them with “flops.” This gives you the opportunity to see what dialogue works in the business and what falls short.

Another easy way for you to achieve your dream of becoming a Hollywood writer is to write, write, and then write some more! If you are just getting started, write and see what comes out. If writing is more than a career choice, but also a hobby, this is something that you should enjoy. After all, practice makes perfect. However, if you are looking to write a script for submission, there are some steps you will want to take.

First, brainstorm. Create a generalized idea of your show or movie. What do you want to happen? Who are the main characters? Brainstorming and creating a short outline can help to keep you focused and on task. Then, start creating the dialogue. You may find writing a quality script easier when you have to fill in dialogue holes, as opposed to starting from scratch.

When your work is ready for submission, you have a number of different options. First and foremost, proofread and proofread more. Consider hiring the services of a professional editor. You can find submission information online or in printed directories. You may, however, want to hire the services of a literary agent. A literary agent, especially one who focuses on television shows and movies, can help you find the perfect match for your work. This increases your chances of making a sale.

If you submit a number of screenplays to Hollywood, but don’t see positive results, try another approach. Apply for writing assistant positions. This is a much easier way for you to get your foot in the door. There is usually more than one writer on the staff of a movie or television show. There are head writers, scene writers, and writers who double as script editors.

The above mentioned tips can help you achieve your dream of becoming a successful Hollywood writer. Remember that writers come in a number of different formats. Even if you can’t sell a script or screenplay, working as a writing assistant may be enough to fulfill your dream, so always keep your options open.

Hollywood Audition Tips

Are you looking to become a successful Hollywood actor or actress? If you are, the process all gets started with an audition. An audition is where you are able to land a job or walk away empty handed. To ensure you don’t walk away disappointed, please continue reading on.

As previously stated, the audition process is the first step in landing a Hollywood acting job. However, the process does not start at the audition itself. You need to practice and prepare for your audition at home. This is important for newcomers, as you may be nervous and rightfully so, but never let that nervousness show. Practice your monologue or reading lines as much as possible. Do so alone in front of your mirror, as well as with someone you know and trust. It is preferable if that individual is one who is comfortable providing you with positive and negative feedback.

In addition to practicing for an audition, it is also important to perfect your appearance. Makeup can help to improve your appearance, but it should be tasteful and not overdone. If you will be doing your own makeup, as opposed to hiring a professional, practice at home. Next, try on clothes. When auditioning, there are many who want to be comfortable. Yes, this is good, but never walk into an audition wearing your comfort clothes, especially if they consist of an old pair of jeans, shorts, or sweatpants. An audition is just like a traditional job interview, one that you should come to dressed professionally.

Whether you attend a scheduled audition or an open casting call, you will not be alone. The waiting room will be filled with other hopeful, aspiring actors. If you have a scheduled audition, you shouldn’t have to wait too long. However, if you do, do not let the wait get you down. No matter how nervous or frustrating it can be, you need to walk into the audition room with a smile on your face. It doesn’t matter whether that smile is real or fake, but it needs to be there. The initial walk in is your first chance to make a good, pleasant impression.

As previously stated, you may have to wait a short period of time for your turn at a scheduled audition or casting call. Although a wait can be distracting, show up early. You should never show up late, especially for a scheduled meeting. If you do, you may lose your time slot. For open casting calls, you could be one of thousands that show up, so be sure to arrive early. Sometimes, the casting crew doesn’t even make it through the whole line.

If you are a beginner, never state so. Chances are the casting crew already has your resume. Never, outright state that you are new to acting, that it is your first audition, or that you hadn’t had the chance to practice your lines. You might assume this gives you an advantage if you deliver the best lines ever, but even still it can hurt you.

Speaking of beginners, if you are new to auditioning for acting roles, you will likely make a mistake. After all, seasoned actors and actresses make mistakes on screen. So, it is not unexpected for you to have one. Never highlight your mistake or ask for a chance to correct it. If you slipup on your lines, continue on. The ability to recover from a mistake is just as important as delivering perfect lines.

The above mentioned tips are just a few of the many that can prepare you for a Hollywood audition, but they are the easiest to implement. Most importantly, always be prepared. Never walk into an audition not knowing material that was provided to you or what you are auditioning for. Also, remember that an audition process is just like a traditional job interview, just with a lot more speaking involved.

Parents: How to Get Your Child Into Acting?

Are you a parent who believes that your child can be the next big star to hit Hollywood? Do you have a cute or beautiful child? Do you have a child who has the personality of a comedian? If so, you and your family may be willing to give Hollywood a try. If so, continue reading on for a few helpful tips.

As it was previously stated, you may be ready to give Hollywood a try. This is an important phrase to remember, as this is where your best chance for success stands. Hollywood or New York are the two places where children see the best chance of breaking into television or movie acting. If you live in the Midwest, there is always the chance that your child could star in local plays or appear in locally based advertisements, but for that “big time,” break, Hollywood or New York is recommended.

Unfortunately, this leads many parents to make a costly mistake. That mistake is simply just packing up their car and heading to Hollywood. You have likely heard that Hollywood is tough and it is. It doesn’t matter how cute or talented you think your child is, they may not see success in acting right away or even at all. That is why a plan of action is needed.

If you are a two family household, some professionals recommend having one parent stay behind. This parent can continue to work and pay for the bills, all the while maintaining a stable home environment. The other parent can travel with the child to Hollywood. This gives you the opportunity to scope out your child’s chances of making it big, but without taking a huge gamble. While in Hollywood, attend open auditions, look into minor clothes modeling opportunities, and try to find an agent that will accept your child as a client.

If you are a single parent, you can still travel to Hollywood to get your child into acting, but there are some steps you will first want to take. One of those steps involves saving money. Even if you opt to sell your home to relocate to Hollywood, save that money, don’t invest it all in your child’s quest to become famous. When in Hollywood, continue to work. Enroll your child in school or daycare. A job with flexible hours can allow you to generate needed income for your family, while still giving your child the opportunity to attend auditions and open casting calls.

If you are serious about getting your child into acting, it is important that you take the time to familiarize yourself with how the business works. The good news is that this is easy to do with the internet, printed resource guides, and filmed documentaries. As for why it is important to familiarize yourself with process of becoming a Hollywood child star, it can give you and your child an advantage. It also reduces your risk of falling victim to an acting scam.

Speaking of scams, never believe anything that is too good to be true. Were you or your child approached at a shopping mall by a talent agency? As nice as it is to hear that your child has a look that can make them famous, know that someone may be trying to scam you. Accept their contact information, but never agree to pay someone for their services right on the spot. Anyone who pressures you to do so, especially, in a shopping mall, likely has poor intentions. Take that card, return home and research the agent or agency online.

If you and your child are ready to head to Hollywood, it is time to get photographs taken. You do not have to wait until you arrive in Hollywood to do this. In fact, it may be cheaper for you to do so at home. As long as you hire a professional photographer and ask to see samples of their work, you should walk away with quality headshots of your child.

Avoid These Common Audition Mistakes

Do you want to become a well-known Hollywood actor or actress? If so, the key is to have great auditions. Unfortunately, this can be easier said than done, as this is where many hopefuls make mistakes.

One of the most common acting audition mistakes that people make is overdoing it. Yes, you want to prove that you can act, but do not go overboard. If a part calls for you to cry, do it. But, keep the scene in mind. If you are supposed to act hysterical, such as with the loss of a family member, let the tears flow. However, if only a tear or two is required, do not let the flood gates open too much. Casting agencies and directors look for someone who can authentically play a part. This is a person who makes it difficult to determine if they are experiencing a real life event or simply just acting.

Authenticity leads to the next mistake you want to avoid. That mistake is trying to be someone you are not. Are you a person who typically greets everyone when you walk into a room? If so, continue to do so. Say a quick hello. This gives a small moment for your true personality to shine through. Too many hopeful Hollywood actors and actresses make the mistake of jumping right into discussing a character, especially their personal take on that character. This is nice, but what if the casting crew had something different in mind? It is best to be yourself, audition, and move on.

Next, it is important to not audition for roles you know, without a doubt, are not right for you. Whether you hear about an open casting call yourself or if your agent provides you with a list, target those that you have something to bring to the part. For example, if an actual war veteran is sought, do not show up for the audition if you have no military training whatsoever. Detailed casting calls are sent out for a reason, because they are looking for something and someone in particular. Do not waste your time or theirs. Only appear for auditions or open casting calls that you qualify for.

Mistakes are a part of life. Outtakes and bloopers can be found on the special features of most DVDs, even for the most popular movies and television shows. What does this prove? It proves that everyone makes mistakes. If you make a mistake in your audition, do not get too hung up on it. If it is small, simply just move on and finish reading the rest of the material provided to you. One of the worst things you can do is stop and say “I can’t believe I did that, can I have another try?” Discreetly recovering from an audition mistake can actually improve your chances of getting a part.

Auditions come in a number of different formats. Typically, you will be provided with lines to read if auditioning for a movie or television show. However, if you want to break into acting by way of plays, you may be able to recite your own monologue. It is important to make your choice wisely. Choose one that allows you to showcase your talents, but avoid overused monologues.

Another common acting audition mistake you want to avoid is asking to come back for a second audition. Were you not pleased with your performance? If so, the time to ask for a redo is right then and there. Do not call or have your agent call asking for a second try. Many casting directors and agencies state this is nothing more than a waste of time for everyone involved. Not only that, it will create a bad impression of yourself. So, if you have a poor audition, start improving not begging for a second chance.

The above mentioned Hollywood audition mistakes are just a few of the many that you can make, but these are the ones that can harm you the most. Remember, an audition is just like a traditional job interview. By preparing and displaying confidence, you are sure to see success.

Hollywood and Newcomers: How to Avoid Debt?

Are you interested in moving to Hollywood? If so, chances are you dream of becoming a big star. Whether you want to be in front of the camera or behind it, you may be in for a struggle. Yes, it is more than possible for you to make a living working in Hollywood, but most hopefuls find breaking into the business to be stressful, especially where finances are concerned. So, how you can make it big in Hollywood while avoiding debt in the process?

If you are planning to move to Hollywood or the surrounding area, do the research first. Regardless of where you are coming from, you will likely find the cost of living to be much higher. Even if you don’t plan to relocate for a few months, look for apartments. Examine their mostly rental costs. Start saving. Do not just hop in your car and drive to Hollywood on a whim. It is a mistake that you may regret for years to come. You will be better off financially, physically, and emotionally if you have a set plan in place.

If you are already living in or around Hollywood, but looking to break into acting, directing, or screenwriting, do not quit your day job, at least right away. In fact, use this time to your advantage. Continue working. Save as much money as you can. You may hit a break and find a job in less than a week, but some hopeful Hollywood stars wait a year or more to get theirs.

As previously stated, you will want to continue working if you already have a job. When you have about four months of expenses saved, consider focusing more on your Hollywood plan. Try reducing your hours at work. If you cannot, find a part-time job. Many hopeful actors and actresses find themselves waiting tables, as the hours are flexible and the tips are good. In your spare time, start perfecting your trade. If you are a writer, start working on your next project or take a professional screenwriting course. If you are hopeful actor, take an acting class, examine agents, or show up for open casting calls.

In terms of finances, remember that a job in Hollywood can last years or only just a few days. This is particularly the case with television shows, as not all networks renew them for more seasons. That is why having extra finances saved is recommended. It can help you during a dry spell. There are also other steps that you can take to avoid debt while trying to turn your Hollywood dream into a reality.

For example, do you live alone? If so, can you find a roommate? If you are only living in a small one bedroom or studio apartment, would it be cheaper to move into a larger apartment with a roommate? You can share the expenses.

If you land a short-term Hollywood job or find your position terminated, keep looking for more jobs in Hollywood, but remember the importance of avoiding debt. Return to work, even if it is just part-time. This will help you pay the bills. You don’t have to work in retail stores or restaurants forever. At the same time, you can keep your dream alive by staying in constant contact with your agent or by attending open casting calls.

Another step you will want to take involves reducing your expenses. This can be hard when it seems like you are surrounded by those who have it all and only the best. Reducing your expenses, as hard as it may be, can help you keep your apartment or home. When auditioning or interviewing for jobs, most will remember the fact that you are living out of your car more than the fact that you MAY have been wearing secondhand clothes.

As a recap, if you want to make it big in Hollywood, good for you. On that same note, achieving your dream shouldn’t come at the expense of your credit score.

Common Hollywood Scams to Avoid

Are you interested in working in Hollywood? If you are, you may have your hopes set high. Of course, this is good, but it is also important to “keep your feet on the ground.” If you don’t, you may find it easier to be taken advantage of. There are a number of common Hollywood scams you will want to avoid.

One scam that you do not want to fall victim to is that of overpriced headshots. Headshots, as you likely already know, are important when wanting to work in front of the camera. With that said, you do not have to select a photographer that labels him or herself as a Hollywood photographer. A standard professional photographer is usually cheaper and should produce the same results. To ensure quality results, ask to see sample shots to verify.

In keeping with overpriced headshots, be on the lookout for extra, unnecessary fees. A photographer generally will not submit your headshots to agents or for casting calls. Rarely do some have the time or the connections needed to do so. For that reason, don’t pay any extra fees. Instead, just pay to have your photographs taken. Submit your own headshots to talent agencies or bring them to open casting calls yourself.

The next type of Hollywood scam, you will want to avoid involves agents. Just because someone calls themselves an agent, it doesn’t mean that they are or that they are well performing. Save your time and your money. Do the proper amount of research first.

As for how you can find a good agent, make connections. Speak to those who you have met in passing. Who are they represented by? Do they have any suggestions for you? Also, use the internet to your advantage, but remember to use your best judgment. Just because an “agent,” has a website, it does not mean that they are good or even legitimate. Use business directories where reviews are welcomed or examine consumer reporting websites, where scams are reported.

While many Hollywood scams are associated with hopeful actors, those who work behind the camera can also fall victim to these scams. Are you a hopeful writer who wants to write the next best Hollywood movie or television show? If so, use your best judgment. Do not submit your screenplay to just anyone. Why? Because you may find yourself taken advantage of. Use an agent or rely on your own research to make sure that your work only falls in the hands of legitimate Hollywood professionals, who will not later claim your great work of art as their own.

All hopeful Hollywood workers, including actors, directors, and writers, are encouraged to be on the lookout for common Hollywood scams. With that said, parents of children who want to break into acting need to be the most cautious. This is important, as this group tends to be targeted the most for Hollywood scams. So, as a parent, what can you do?

Use your best judgment. Do not decide on a whim that you want to break your child into acting or modeling. This is often due in part to being approached by someone at a shopping mall. We have all heard the stories about how famous actors and actresses were discovered at the beach or at the mall. Yes, this does happen, but it is rare. Often times, that person is spotted by a casting agent or director by chance, not by walking by a booth setup by a talent agency.

As outlined above, there are a number of Hollywood scams you will want to be on the lookout for. With that said, remember that it is more than possible to legitimately work in Hollywood as a writer, behind the camera, or in front of it. In most cases, using your best judgment will keep you safe and help you avoid common Hollywood scams, such as the ones outlined above.