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Frequently Asked Questions

These are some of the questions we get frequently asked. If you have a question that’s not covered here, please contact us and we'll try and answer it for you.

How can I find jobs in film and television?

The chances are, if you are a budding actor or film–maker, that you have tried searching for jobs in film and television, with limited success. The truth is that genuine professional film and television work is extremely hard to find on your own. Actors and film–makers need agents, but even if an agent does take you on, you may still rarely get a call.

(Never pay for auditions, or pay to be on an agent’s books. Genuine agents earn their money by asking for a percentage of your earnings from jobs you have found through them). You can find a list of careers in film and television here

How can I make it in film and Television?

First, let’s be clear that there are very, very few people who become a recognised household name. Check out the statistics below to find out how slim the chances are. Having said that, here is ACT 2 CAM’s list of top 10 tips on how to become a successful working screen–actor or film–maker:

1. Decide now if you really want to do screen–acting or film–making. You have to be dedicated. If you are, then read on.

2. Start getting experience in front of and behind the camera, right now! Build up a showreel of your work. Follow every opportunity to make films. The better the quality, the more professional you come across and the more likely you are to get noticed.

3. Enrol in a screen–acting or film–making classes. Join your local ACT 2 CAM group and MAKE FILMS NOW! Get expert training on screen and behind the camera. Good actors and film–makers study their entire lives. Good classes are run by professional teachers and industry experts with enhanced CRB checks.

4. Seek out and mix with like–minded people. There are plenty of ambitious young actors and film–makers out there. Make opportunities to meet industry professionals whenever possible. "Who you know" is extremely important.

5. Promote yourself. Send your showreel and CV with a brief cover letter to all the casting directors and agents in your area. Follow up with postcards every four to six months, updating them on your current film projects.

6. Seek out work. Read the trade papers regularly, as well as online publications. The Stage, The Knowledge and Production and Casting Report are just 3 of the many resources out there. Make sure you know what is being filmed and where, and get your showreel directly to directors and producers whenever possible, requesting work.

7. Get yourself where the work is. Make sure you are in the right place at the right time. Find out about auditions and screen–tests in your area. Look out for film–festivals and media competitions.

8. Be realistic. Know that you can be successful even if you don't become famous. There are very many people wanting to get into in film and television. (Keep reading below for some interesting statistics). Do not expect too much too soon.

9. Persevere. Keep going, and believe in yourself. There will be times when you will need to ask yourself that question #1 again Is this what you really want?

10. Give yourself the best possible chance. The competition is huge, and the opportunities are few and far between. You have to make sure you have the experience, the skills and the showreel when that opportunity arrives.

Why is it so difficult to find work in film and television?

There are huge numbers of young people competing for very few jobs. It is difficult to stress exactly how competitive film and television work is, but a good guide is that 9 out of 10 actors are out of work at any given time. Up until recently you had to be a member of the actor’s union Equity to get a professional acting job– and you were allowed an Equity Card only after you had worked professionally for some time. Thankfully this catch 22 situation no longer exists, although the film and television industry remains a very closed shop to all but the most dedicated and well connected.

What is the pay like?

Theatre actors bring in around £300–£400 a week. Film and TV actors are paid similarly, depending on the prominence of the role, and the experience and reputation of the actor. “Extra” work (non–speaking walk–on parts) will give you £80–£100 a day.

Only 6% of actors earn more than £30,000 per year. A recent survey found that nearly half of those working in the UK film and television industry earned less than £6,000 a year from the profession.

Many actors and film makers work for very little, especially at the beginning of their careers. Most jobs are short term. Many experienced actors and film makers need to do other work to supplement their income.

Read the above sentence again. It is important to be realistic about these things

How ACT 2 CAM help me?

If you are you still interested in film and television work after reading the above information, then you clearly have the strong commitment necessary to begin a career in film and TV. However, commitment on its own is not enough.

There are a number of ways to put your commitment to work and maximise your potential as an actor or film maker.

In addition to specific training and experience in film and TV, Act 2 Cam helps you to compile material for your showreel. Your showreel is a vital piece of equipment for the actor, showing future employees your skills and range.

How much do auditions cost?

Never pay for acting auditions, or for acting ‘opportunities’. These are likely to be a scam.

We do not have auditions at ACT 2 CAM. We believe that everybody has the capacity to learn. That means if you want skills and experience in screen acting, then it is our job to give them to you, not turn you away.

How much does it cost to get an agent?

Never pay for an agent. If anyone asks for your money up front to be on their books or database, then they have little incentive to find you work. Some internet agencies have thousands of people on their books, a tiny percentage of whom find paid work through that agency

Reputable agents do not charge you to be on their books. They will try to find you work, then charge you a percentage of your earnings (between 10% and 15%).

Where can I get information about acting work?

There are a number of internet sites that charge you for audition information. Don’t buy into these—you will only be lining the pockets of entrepreneurs for very little return. You can always find the same casting information for free elsewhere, if you know where to look.

Act 2 Cam members receive free information about film and television work, directly from agents and casting directors.

Contact us if you have any questions about the film and TV industry, or about the work we do. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.