Common Misconceptions About Casting

Misconceptions about casting: From believing that you have to have a “perfect look” to assuming that you have to have professional experience, there are plenty of misconceptions about the casting process. In this post, we will cover the top five misconceptions about casting and reveal the truth behind the process. We will discuss the need for personalization in casting submissions, the range of opportunities available for actors, and the importance of relationships. Finally, we will give helpful tips for those just starting in the world of acting. So, if you’ve been fooled by these common misconceptions and you’re ready to get your foot in the door of the casting world, look no further.

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Misconception #1: Casting Directors Decide Who Gets The Part

Inexperienced actors sometimes think that casting directors are the final decision-makers on who gets the part. That misconception can generate anxiety and fear that a poor audition performance can forever damage any future opportunity with that same casting office. In general, casting directors are hired to bring options for each role, big or small. They can give the creators input and their opinion, but they do not decide who will ultimately play the character. It will be a creator (director, writer), a showrunner, or even an executive decision-maker who will have the final say. 

But that doesn’t mean you don’t have to make a good impression at the audition. From your manners and professionalism when meeting with casting to the quality of your performance, an actor must always make sure to present themselves in the best possible light.

Tip:

When you have the opportunity to audition for a role you want, find out about the production. Who are the writers and directors? What do you know about their work? Familiarizing yourself with the professionals in the creative team can give you an edge. You can better prepare your audition if you have a good understanding of the work already produced by a team.

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Misconception #2: You Have To Be Experienced And “Good-Looking” To Be Cast

Actors don’t have to meet any particular beauty standards to work. There are roles for every age, gender, race, and body type. Casting is becoming more and more inclusive, and parts that used to be written to white male performers by default are not open to different races and genders – as they should be. The concept of “good-looking” is subjective and broad. Actors do not have to meet that standard. Fictional characters look like real people, and not everybody is “good-looking.” 

On the same token, experience is not mandatory for an actor to be cast. Of course, it helps. If you have worked or at least trained, you are certainly more prepared to audition and perform. But many casting directors enjoy discovering “new talent” and will be open to seeing someone without experience. What they are looking for is someone who fits the role and can perform it.

Tip:

Some actors fear showing up with a resume with barely any acting credits in it. But you should not. If you do not have any experience, put your classes and skills on your resume. That is a great start. Everyone, at one point, had zero acting credits. If you are at that stage, there is nothing to be embarrassed about. Show your talent – that should do it. The same goes for looks: be who you are and don’t overthink what you will wear.

[Read also: 6 Reasons to Never Pay to Be in a Talent Showcase]

Misconception #3: You Can Easily Self-Submit For High-Ticket Roles

Self-submissions are great, especially when you don’t have an agent. But, unfortunately for actors, the best roles are not typically open for self-submissions. On Actors Access, casting directors can choose between opening a role for self-submission or only allowing agents to see the breakdown and submit their clients.

Tip:

If you don’t have an agent, make getting one a priority. Agents will have access to better auditions than you can find for self-submissions. When you do self-submit, personalize your audition. You can do that when slating or by sending casting a note. Keep track of casting directors you have auditioned for. It helps to remember their tape instructions and the shows they are connected to.

[Read also: 5 Lessons From Casting Directors Workshops]

Misconception #4: The Casting Process Only Happens Through Auditions

Actors often ignore the fact that so many roles are cast outside of a traditional audition process. When it comes to the most sought-after roles, agents who have great relationships in the industry may pitch their clients before breakdowns are released. And in the case of independent productions, many filmmakers skip traditional casting altogether to save costs. That means they are likely to hire an actor they met before. 

Tip:

Learn about how your agent works, and whether or not they are willing to pitch you for the roles you would like to book. Aside from that, get to know industry peers – writers, producers, directors, and fellow actors. Someone may refer you for a job one day.

[Read also: 3 Secrets About How Agents Pitch Actors]

Misconception #5: You Need To Be Friends With Casting Directors

The idea that actors need to focus on getting to meet casting directors is another huge misconception. Our relationships are professional. You will meet casting directors as you audition. They will remember you as you get better with each audition. That relationship will develop at its own pace. It is okay to follow casting directors on social media. If they come across your profile, they may follow you back. But if they don’t, stay in your lane. Pursuing a friendship with casting so you can get jobs is not just a mistake: it is cringe-worthy.

Tip:

Track your auditions and write down the casting directors’ information when you meet them. A professional relationship with casting takes years to build. Don’t try to speed the process but learn from it. 

[Read also: 3 Types of Industry Pros Actors Must Network With]

Conclusion

Acting is a business, we do not question that. However, there are too many misconceptions about casting. Some actors make the mistake of focusing too much in the casting process. Having a good agent or manager and letting them do their job is more helpful than chasing casting directors. Getting to know more people in the business can also help with opportunities. What we need to do as actors, is to consistently improve our skills and our craft. That is what will get us the job when we are considered for it. 

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