Last week I talked about why taking classes is important. Well I was clearing out my phone and saw this video from class. As I look at it I learn so much... I am always learning! I am very serious about what I do and achieving my goals. So you basically have 2 choices. Do you want to be a professional actor or act as a hobby?
Now this is important to understand... it is your choice! Not your brothers, friends, parents, teachers, agents, casting directors, or even a directors choice. It is yours... see it is simple. When you make the choice you are in control! Some people want to simply do background work. That satisfies their desires for acting. While others want to have a lead role. Is one role more important than another? Well no... without either role you would not have a real production.
So what does it mean to be a professional? It means a lot but here is my short list:
You show up on time - Be there 15 minutes early... not earlier... there might be limited space or simple logistics of getting you to set. Not to mention going through wardrobe and makeup. If they have people early this through the schedule off.
You don't interrupt the production - When you hear quiet on set or rolling. Don't start walking around and talking. Your footsteps might be picked up by the audio recording much less your talking!
You listen to what you are asked to do - This is really important for everyone involved. Lets say you are a main cast member and your mark is by a tree. The camera is set for that very spot. So you need to land on that mark and if you are background... you should avoid that mark unless asked to pass by.
You practice your craft - to be a good background you need to know when you are in the way of the main cast. I am not a small person... :) So I have been used to block a main cast member from being seen... I call this a reveal shot. It has happened several times with me on Queen of the South (USA Network on Thursday nights new season June 21st).Season 2 I was to block the view of Camilla going up the escalators. Season 3 I am used in the wedding to block the view of another actress (I cant say much about this at this time).
You do not post to your website or Social Media about a production - I have seen people walked off the set and ask to never come back because of this. You have to understand any exposure of a scene can cause loss of value / income.
You commit to being on set and you show up - I have been on set where no shows occur. I have been called in as a last minute fill for that very reason. It cost time and money for the production. I have also seen people leave with out letting anyone know. This as well can be a huge issue. I have been on set for less than an hour to as long as 16 hours. You must understand your commitment.
To me those are all about being a professional. Now if it is a hobby you still need to realize those 6 items. But, maybe you only do background work or an occasional speaking part. This is perfectly fine... I know people that look at acting this way. They are retired and want something fun to do... others do this around a work schedule and make some vacation money.
For me I am at this full-time... if not on set I am at the gym, reading, memorizing lines, in classes, writing my story, hosting my show, anything and everything to improve my craft!
Until next week... My name is Paul Caraway... More Power To You! Have an awesome week everyone.
