Prefer to be an actor or director?

The movie business or entertainment business for that matter is not an easy one. Most actors work longer hours then most of us do at our regular jobs. Hours consisting of 5am sometimes even earlier and working 15-18 hour days sometimes 7 days straight. That goes for directors too sometimes even more hours then actors do since they are involved in every aspect of movie or television work.

Showbiz is a hard business to get into but even harder to work in it. There are a lot of others out there that want to do the same thing you may be wanting to do yourself. But nonetheless it is possible for anyone to get into the business with persistence. The keys to any success. One common mistake a lot of people make is paying to get into the business. I have seen it time and time again. You go to some get together for someone to tell you if you have it or not, keep you in a room for those who get to stay and tell you it will cost X amount of dollars to go see producers that will be at a specific function. Now how these people know whether you have it or not is them just picking and choosing who they think will have the money to go on to the next round. It is the biggest rip off going on and lots of people get shafted for it. Don't fall for it.

If you really want to get into show business here is some helpful advice. There are websites out there that list auditions happening all over the US that I have seen. All you really have to do instead of spending hundreds on a portfolio is take some poloroid or simple snap shot of yourself with NO MAKEUP on. The agents want to see your actual face , not a make believe one. Next you mail it to talent agents. They are listed on both your local telephone book and online.

If the talent agent thinks he/she can get you work they will pay for your portfolio not you! The agent makes a percentage of what you make. Its there business to get you work.

Also start off in city plays, if you are still in high school join the drama club. Colleges and University's also throw plays so try and join. It helps in your resume. Most of your first works may be in commercials.

If your interested in directing you may want to take some college courses on learning what you can. Another alternative is to volunteer to work on sets or for film production studios to learn the business.

Got any other questions? Perhaps I myself or someone else that comments can help you out on your quest. Networking is key so get to know people.

So what would you want to be? Director? or Actor?