Is It Time For New Headshots?

Ever wonder what kind of an impression your headshots are making on casting directors? Your headshot is your passport to the role of your dreams. So if your headshots are not a good reflection of you and your personality, or the quality of your headshots is poor, it may take you longer to get to attain the level of success you’d hoped for. Whether your photos are outdated, or simply not the best reflection of your personality, new headshots are often just what an aspiring entertainer needs in order to land the auditions and the roles they have their hearts set on.

But how do you know if it’s time to take new headshots? Consider these questions:

• Does your photo look natural?
• Does your photo reflect the way you look now (and not five years ago)?
• Is your photo a clear shot of you, without distracting objects in the background?
• Are you looking directly at the camera?
• Does your photo convey the right image for you?
• Are the clothes you’re wearing in the photo contemporary?
• Did you use a professional photographer?
• Does your photo conform to industry standards?

If you’ve answered no to any of these questions, then you may want to consider taking new photos. Ask friends in the industry (or other Elite Casting Network members) to help you select a professional photographer. It’s also critical that your hair, makeup and attire help you portray an image that will grab the attention of casting directors the moment they set their eyes on your photo.

Once you’ve taken your photos, don’t rush to the printer. Make sure you have several people look at your proof sheet and offer their opinion on which photos are the strongest. Once there’s a consensus, you’ll be in a much better position to decide which photos would help you get the best results.

A headshot that accurately portrays your personality and lets your charisma shine through is the first step towards success in the entertainment industry. Check out some of the head shots posted on our members pages by visiting http://www.EliteCastingNetwork.com. You can also get referrals for photographers in your area by posting to our community forum.

ECN Members Upgrade Their Memberships & Increase Their Success In The Industry

HOLLYWOOD – Elite Casting Network (www.EliteCastingNetwork.com) members who’ve taken advantage of the site’s upgrade specials have already gotten tremendous results. A growing number of models, dancers, singers and actors are discovering that Elite Casting Network’s Gold, Platinum and Diamond memberships are the key to launching a successful career in the entertainment industry. By increasing their membership level, thus increasing their exposure, they are now being contacted for more industry gigs than ever before.

Elite Casting Network, the industry’s leading casting website for more than a decade, helps actors, dancers, singers and models get access to invaluable casting leads, dispelling the myth that aspiring entertainers can’t succeed in Hollywood without an agent. Members at all levels are finding success on the website, but actors, singers, dancers and models who have recently upgraded are having record success. Lynette Thomas, a Elite Casting Network member from Memphis, Tennessee is a perfect example. “I have been getting jobs and calls everyday since I upgraded,” says Lynette. “I just got another call for a print modeling job. I love this site.”

Lindsay MacDonald, another Elite Casting Network member from Rhode Island who recently upgraded to a Diamond membership is experiencing the same success. “I've had a Elite Casting Network membership for awhile now but I just upgraded to a Diamond membership and my views are increasing,” she said. A one-year Diamond membership, only $199.95, is a great way for actors, singers, dancers and models to showcase their talent to casting directors, talent scouts and other entertainment industry professionals who visit Elite Casting Network every day to search for new talent.

Elite Casting Network members who upgrade their memberships can upload up to 100 photos as well as video and audio files. Additionally, members who purchase a one-year membership will also get the same level membership for the entire year at Star Search Casting (http://www.StarSearchCasting.com). With two memberships from leading casting websites, actors, dancers, singers and models will not only get more exposure, but also have access to unlimited casting opportunities and resources.

“I have been trying to find jobs for awhile now and it's been hard to do so without paying lots of money,” said Elle Viane from Washington. However once she learned about Elite Casting Network and signed up, she not only found an affordable resource, but she also landed a role in a film that begins shooting this summer.

For more information on joining the tons of actors, singers, dancers and models experiencing record success at Elite Casting Network, visit www.EliteCastingNetwork.com. Sign up or upgrade your membership today!

Win Over Casting Directors Every Time!

Are you a really great actor, dancer, singer or model but you’re having a hard time landing jobs? Sometimes talent isn’t enough to seal the deal. If you’re consistently late for your appointments, or come across as being rude or arrogant, no matter how talented you are, you may be passed over time and time again.

Succeeding in the entertainment industry often hinges on the ability to win people over. You have to sell yourself as a performer who is not only talented, but who’s responsible, professional and courteous to others. Want to get cast? Then dedicate as much energy to winning over the casting director that you dedicate to your craft.

So, how do you go about winning over the casting director? Here are a few easy tips that are guaranteed to help you make a positive, lasting impression on the casting director, and help you standout as a talent they’ll want to work with and endorse:

• Submit professional photos that both look like you and reflect your personality.
• Bring extra copies of your headshot and resume to your audition in the event yours have been misplaced.
• Consistently show up for your auditions on time.
• Be polite and professional to everyone in the casting office.
• Dress professionally.
• Demonstrate that you’re well prepared for your audition.
• Be receptive to the casting director and take direction as it’s given.
• Thank the casting director for his or her time before you leave your audition.

And as a little something extra, send a thank you note to the casting director letting them know how much you appreciate them for the opportunity. You can even have note cards or postcards created with your photo on them.

The goal is to standout from all of the other actors, singers, dancers and models that the casting directors will meet with. Even if you don’t get the job, I guarantee that you will leave a lasting, positive impression and the casting director will remember you when other opportunities arise.

Ready to begin using these tips to ace your next audition? Visit http://www.StarSearchCasting.com today and check out the thousands of auditions we have posted on our website.

Broadcast Yourself – Using The Internet To Generate Exposure

Chris Crocker scored more than 8 million web hits and exposure on some of the most popular television shows when he posted a dramatic video on You Tube begging the media and the public to, “Leave Britney [Spears] alone” just after her much talked about performance on the MTV Video Music Awards. Whether his rant left you intrigued or simply annoyed, the attention he got landed him what most actors would give their left arms for – his own television show. Crocker, admittedly an aspiring actor, signed a contract with Blue Productions to appear in his own reality show. The actor had been posting videos to the web for six months and he’d begun developing a substantial fan base. In addition to the famous rant that helped him secure a television deal, his You Tube page included more than 60 additional performance pieces.

Even the Ford Modeling Agency is turning to the web to generate more exposure for their agency and their models. The agency has produced more than 1,000 videos for the web featuring their models during photo shoots, backstage at fashion shows, and even at the gym. You can view these videos on the web, including on You Tube. Some videos have garnered more than one million hits.

Did you know that with a Platinum or Diamond membership on www.StarSearchCasting.com, you can post video files to your profile? Chris Crocker – though a bit quirky – and the Ford Modeling Agency are great examples of how you can use the internet effectively to generate valuable exposure. Whether you have a video from a previous staged performance, or you’ve recently self-recorded an audition piece, adding a video to your Star Search Casting profile is a great way to showcase your talent to casting directors and other industry executives and show them that you really do have what it takes. A picture’s worth a thousand words, but a video clip seals the deal! Just ask Chris Crocker!

To upgrade your membership so that you can add video clips to your page, visit http://www.StarSearchCasting.com and click on ‘Membership Levels.’ Remember, before posting any original material to our site, or any other site, make sure you’ve gone to the proper channels to have your work registered and copy written.

Make The Most Of Your Callback

You recently auditioned for a role and the casting director was so impressed that they want to see you again! Congrats! Getting a callback is great validation for a performer. It means that out of the hundreds of people that the casting director initially auditioned, you were among a small few that really stood out.

While the casting director typically selects a handful of people out of hundreds that he or she thinks would be most suitable for lead and supporting roles – it’s rare that the casting director gets the final say. When you go to your callback, you’ll most likely audition in front of high powered decision makers such as network executives if you’re auditioning for a role on a television show, advertising executives if you’re auditioning for a commercial, or the director if you’re auditioning for a film. Additionally, you may even have more than one callback.

This is your shot to land the role, so make sure you take the opportunity seriously. In order to make the most of your callback:

• Arrive early and ask if there have been any changes to the script. Unfortunately actors can spend hours practicing material they’ve received in advance, only to get to an audition and learn that the material has been revised. If you arrive early, you give yourself an opportunity to prepare for issues like this.

• Don’t alter your look. You don’t have to wear the same thing you wore to the initial audition (though many people do), but you want to ensure the casting director remembers you, and that you reflect the same image that you did initially because based on the fact that you’ve been called back, that’s what the casting staff is looking for.

• Try to get a copy of the entire script so that you have a better understanding of who the character is.

• Be friendly, upbeat, positive and professional. If you’re auditioning in front of the director, he or she will not only be evaluating your talent, but also if you’re the type of performer they will want to work with for the duration of the project.

If you don’t land the job, take it all in stride. By securing a callback you’ve proved that you have something really special and others are sure to see it as you continue auditioning for other roles. Additionally, the influential industry executives who you auditioned for during your callback may be interested in calling you in for upcoming projects.

Curious how other performers have handled the pressure of callbacks? Log in to http://www.EliteCastingNetwork.com and connect with other members in our community forum.

How To Avoid Choosing The Wrong Audition Song

If you’ve checked out our auditions lately then you may have noticed that there are several musicals seeking talented men and women to join their casts! Theatrical classics like Show Boat and Hair and two original musical films are just a few of the posts perfect for Elite Casting Network members who are great at both acting and singing!

Have you ever auditioned for a musical and afterwards you think to yourself, “Why on earth did I pick that song!” Selecting a song for an audition can be a challenge - especially if you’re new to auditioning. Here’s a checklist that you can use to eliminate song choices so that you don’t make the costly mistake of picking the wrong song for your musical theatre audition.

Don’t choose a song…

…If it doesn’t resonate with you. You should really like the song, and enjoy singing it in order to perform it well.

…If portions of the song are out of your range. If during practice you can’t consistently hit all of the notes, pick a new song.

…If it’s not in a key you can sing in and you aren’t able to have it transposed. Don’t assume that the pianist at your audition can transpose music on sight.

…If it doesn’t show off your vocal talents.

…If you have trouble remembering the lyrics.

Once you’ve eliminated songs that aren’t a good fit, begin keeping the songs that are well suited for your voice and for musical theatre auditions in a well-organized notebook. You can also keep your headshots and resumes in the notebook so that you’re always prepared when you arrive at your audition.

Ready to sing your heart out? Visit http://www.EliteCastingNetwork.com today and check out some of the auditions that we have posted on our website. You can also connect with other members in our community forum to discuss other helpful audition tips. Good luck!

Let Your Talent Shine With A Diamond Membership From Star Search Casting

Double your exposure this year! Purchase an annual Diamond membership at Star Search Casting & get 12 months for the price of 8, plus a one-year Diamond membership at Elite Casting Network. There’s no better way to let your talent shine!

HOLLYWOOD – If you’ve got the look, the personality and the talent, we can help you get the exposure! An entire year’s worth! Star Search Casting (www.StarSearchCasting.com) is helping aspiring actors, dancers, singers and models launch the career of their dreams by offering them an annual Diamond membership, for only $199.95 when they purchase an annual subscription. The subscription starts at just $24.99 a month, but by paying for a full year upfront, members can save $100. Additionally, as a special bonus they’ll also get a free, one-year Diamond membership at Elite Casting Network (www.EliteCastingNetwork.com). That’s two memberships from two leading casting websites, for the price of one – a $600 value.

Star Search Casting has been a leader in providing casting notices and other online resources for aspiring entertainers seeking acting, singing, dancing and modeling jobs for 10 years. The website has helped thousands of Hollywood hopefuls launch successful careers in the entertainment industry, and book the jobs of their dreams. This year, in an effort to help actors, singers, dancers and models get the most exposure for the best value, Star Search Casting is now offering Diamond memberships for both Star Search Casting and Elite Casting Network, a $600 value for only $199.95. That’s 12 months for the price of 8, plus two memberships for the price of one. It’s the best deal in the industry bar none.

An annual Diamond level membership at Star Search Casting includes: 100 photos in your personal profile; five customizable web addresses linking to your profile; eight documents; three audio files; three video files; 100 free SMS credits; a hit counter; unlimited contacts from casting directors and other industry professionals; and the exposure of a lifetime for aspiring singers, dancers, actors and models! For a limited time only, when members sign up for an annual Diamond level membership at Star Search Casting, they will enjoy the same benefits at Elite Casting Network.

Singers, actors, dancers and models who purchase an annual Platinum, Gold or Silver membership at Star Search Casting will also get a one-year membership for the cost of eight months! They’ll also get the same level membership at Elite Casting Network and instantly double their exposure.

For more information on these amazing savings, visit http://www.StarSearchCasting.com and click on 'Membership Levels'. There’s no better time for singers, dancers, actors and models to shoot for the stars!

The Benefits Of Good Dance Technique

Television and film producers have capitalized on the dance fever that has struck the nation. From shows like Dancing with the Stars and So You Think You Can Dance to movies like Step Up and How She Move, audiences everywhere are being swept up in the latest dance craze. Many of these shows and films are also encouraging more and more people to pursue dance as a career.

If you’ve watched any of the televised dance shows, then you know that training doesn’t automatically determine talent. Experienced dancers who’ve been training for more than a dozen years often share the stage with novice dancers who’ve learned their moves from watching music videos, or dancing in nightclubs. And sometimes when it’s time to make a decision, it’s the untrained dancer that moves on to the next round. Having passion, dedication and style can sometimes impress a judge even more than 12 years of advanced classes.

While the media is proving that lack of training doesn’t have to hold aspiring dancers back from pursuing their dreams, it is still important that all dancers begin taking classes. While proper technique isn’t a requirement for winning over judges, it is a requirement if you want to ward off injury.

Dance auditions require dancers to pick up choreography - which can sometimes be very complex - very quickly. If dancers haven’t grasped proper technique, strenuous auditions – and performances – can easily lead to injury. Choreography that may require jump landings or deep squats can lead to tendonitis and knee injuries. An improper turnout can lead to wear and tear on the hips. Poor posture can lead to successive back problems.

If you have a natural talent and you’ve decided to pursue dance as a career, begin taking classes as soon as possible. This is an exciting time for you and you don’t want to miss your big break due to an injury that could have been prevented by refining your technique.

For a list of dance studios in your area, visit http://www.EliteCastingNetwork.com and visit our 'Entertainment Resources' section.

New Year, New Agency?

Do you have representation but still don’t feel like your career is taking off? Often aspiring singers, dancers, actors and models are so excited to sign with an agency, but then the experience leaves much to be desired. There are many reasons why clients are dismayed by their relationship with their agency. Perhaps they are not being sent on auditions frequently or at all. Maybe, especially if they signed with a smaller agency, they don’t feel as though they are getting the personal attention that they expected or were promised.

Are you unhappy with your agent, but you’re simply not sure if you should leave the agency? Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you feel that your agent or manager has a strong knowledge of the business?
• Does your agent or manager have good relationships with casting directors, producers and directors? Or is your agent actively trying to develop these kinds of relationships?
• Does your agent send you out on auditions that you are well suited for?
• Does your agent believe in you?
• Is your agent or manager a skilled negotiator?
• Is your agent or manager trustworthy?
• Does your agent or manager make sure that you’re paid in a timely manner?

If you’ve answered no to several of these questions, then it’s probably time to start exploring other agencies. There’s nothing wrong with exploring your options if you’re unhappy with your representation, as long as you aren’t bound by contractual obligations. But it’s very important that no matter what, you try to leave your old agency without burning any bridges.

Before you do anything else, let your agent or manager know that you’re unhappy. Give him or her a chance to turn things around. Perhaps you somehow got lost in the shuffle and your agent just needed a nudge to give you the additional attention you deserve. If that doesn’t work and you’re still unhappy, be sure to tell your agent that you’re exploring other options before you begin contacting other agents. It’s a small world out there and you don’t want to be perceived by your old agent or a potential new agent as dishonest.

If in the end you part ways, it’s important to be as polite and respectful as possible. Don’t give your old agent any reason to say anything negative about you to others in the industry. Be sure to thank your old agent for the opportunity and any assistance they’ve given you.

If you’re looking for a new agent in your area, visit http://www.StarSearchCasting.com and click on our 'Talent Resources' page to view the tons of agents in our database. Good luck!

Major Agencies Are Searching For You!!!

Each year thousands of model searches and open calls are held online and all over the country. Model searches and open calls are some of the best ways to increase an aspiring model's chances of being discovered by a major agency. In addition to the possibility of landing a contract or deal, model searches are a great opportunity to make contacts, learn more about how the industry works, and win great prizes including cosmetics, clothing, and other really great perks.

If you've heard you have to go to New York in order to get signed to a prominent modeling agency - that's simply not true. Agencies are just as determined to find new faces as you are to get signed. In addition to model searches and open calls in even some of the smallest towns, many larger agencies work with scouts from Jacksonville, Florida to Tacoma, Washington to find their next big client.

As an aspiring model, it can be difficult to know which opportunities to take advantage of when trying to land an agent and launch your career. Model searches and open calls are extremely helpful to aspiring models because:

• Most model searches typically cost less than $50 to participate and most open are free - there are some exceptions.
• You can find model searches in your own hometown, or online which means you don't have to spend an arm and a leg on travel and accommodations.
• Model searches are a great opportunity to get feedback from industry professionals who can advise you on your strength and your weaknesses.
• You can get a better idea of what kind of work you're best suited for, ex. Runway, catalog, etc.

If you've been doing your homework then you know that Elite Model Management is the largest modeling agency in the world, representing more than 800 models from five continents. Models previously represented by Elite include Tyra Banks, Claudia Schiffer, Heidi Klum, and Gisele Bundchen. If Elite can help those models rise to fame, then imagine what they could do for you!

Well signing with Elite may just be easier than you think. Aspiring models often think that meeting with a large agency without dazzling photos is almost impossible, but that's not true at all. Did you know that at the Elite Model Management office in Chicago, they have an open call EVERY DAY at 3:30PM? Did you also know that professional photos are not required, no appointment is necessary and dress is casual? The only requirement is that girls are at least 5'7 and guys are at least 5'11 and it's suggested that you wear little or no makeup.

Isn't exciting to know that the opportunities are out there? For more information about opportunities available to aspiring models, visit http://www.EliteCastingNetwork.com and check out our 'Auditions' page.

Scam Alert: The Byron Sanders Advertising Agency

Recently a Star Search Casting member posted an email they received to the community forum because they had concerns that the email was a part of a scam. The email was from the Byron Sanders Advertising Agency, a company that sells advertising, marketing and public relations services and claims to help rising stars get media exposure through major television networks, the Internet and print advertising.

The company is listed as the Byron Sanders Marketing Media Management Agency with the Better Business Bureau. The company is based in Dallas, Texas and is not a BBB accredited company. The company has an unsatisfactory record with the BBB due to failure to respond to a complaint. In the last 36 months, two complaints have been filed against the company - one of which has been closed.

This information doesn’t necessarily mean that the company is involved in a scam. Most companies that have been involved in scams have a far greater number of complaints within that span of time. However, there are several red flags. The first is that due to the nature of the industry that the company is in – advertising, marketing and public relations – it’s somewhat suspicious that there is limited information about the company on the web. If a company claims to be able to promote you, then you’d definitely want to go with a company that is able to promote themselves. For example, Ken Sunshine has worked to promote actors such as Ben Affleck, Justin Timberlake and Leonardo DiCaprio. A Google search for Ken Sunshine’s name returns over 20,000 records, while a search for the Byron Sanders Advertising Agency returns only six results.

Secondly, the company claims to be the “greatest advertising agency in the world…” however the company is not a member of the American Association of Advertising Agencies. Lastly, in the email that was sent to one of our members, the representative asked them to email them back and state how much money they were willing to invest in promoting themselves. Reputable advertising and public relations agencies are not “name your price” businesses. These companies work for specific fees, on a project-by-project basis, or on a monthly retainer.

For aspiring actors, singers, dancers and models, there will be a time where you will need the assistance of public relations and marketing professionals to help you boost your career. However this point generally comes once you’ve found an agent and have booked one or more significant jobs. Additionally, your agent or manager at that time can pair you with a marketing and public relations agency with a great reputation and a strong track record.

For more information on entertainment-related Internet scams, log in to http://www.StarSearchCasting.com each day and check out our Scam Alert.

Member Spotlight – Car’ynn Sims

While many of our Star Search Casting members may be small, they are no strangers to BIG success. Car'ynn Sims, originally from Dallas, Texas is just 10 years old, but she's booked more than two-dozen acting jobs, appearing in various commercials and television and film projects.

Car'ynn's all-American girl image has landed her on commercials for some of America's most popular brands, including Burger King, Southwest Airlines, Blockbuster and Oscar Mayer. In addition to her work in commercials, she's also been featured in print advertising campaigns, including the Fall 2007 campaign for American Girl.

Car'ynn has also booked roles on several notable television series. She's recently appeared on Cory in the House, the popular Disney Channel show. She's also appeared on Yes, Dear on CBS and Girlfriends on the CW Television Network.

Like many of our SSC members, Car'ynn has a long list of talents. In addition to acting and modeling, she also sings and raps with her sisters and has performed at Macy's Passport, one of the largest fashion events in the United States.

Car'ynn comes from a very talented family. Her first film was Choosing Your Course, which she appeared in along with her father, and her two older sisters. Car'ynn is currently filming the movie Angel Wishes with her sister Chris'tol.

While it's clear that Car'ynn is a natural, she's also taken a number of classes to sharpen her skills. She's studied acting with some of the industry's top coaches including actress and director Chip Fields. Additionally, Car'ynn has studied dance at Millennium Dance Complex where Wade Robinson and Shane Sparks, both choreographers for So You Think You Can Dance, teach classes.

That's quite a long list of accomplishments for such a young performer, isn't it? We'd like to congratulate Car'ynn and her entire family on all of their recent success. She's an awesome example of how you can achieve anything, no matter how young you are!!!

If you're a young performer and you're inspired by Car'ynn's story, we want to help you achieve the same level of success! Visit us online at http://www.StarSearchCasting.com to find auditions in your area and begin taking the industry by storm!

www.EliteCastingNetwork.com Members Stay Connected To The Industry Thanks To State Of The Art Technology

HOLLYWOOD – Technology continues to transform the way business is conducted in the fast paced world of the entertainment industry. These advances are not just helpful for entertainment executives, but also for aspiring dancers, actors, models and singers, many of whom juggle day and night jobs with auditions, rehearsals and gigs. Elite Casting Network, the industry’s leading casting website, now makes it easier for aspiring performers to stay connected to the industry and get real time casting & audition information while they’re on the go.

Long gone are the days of receiving information from your agent or a casting director via fax, or even email. Now entertainment industry professionals send everything from casting breakdowns and lyrics to script pages and other audition information to actors, singers, dancers and models via cell phones and PDAs. Elite Casting Network was one of the first casting websites to give its members the option of receiving casting calls and audition information via their wireless devices.

“When casting and audition information is automatically sent to my Blackberry, I can respond right away,” says Jenna Barber, an aspiring actress based in Los Angeles. “If I had to wait until I could login on my PC, I don’t think I’d able to compete with a lot of the other actors who have agents working around the clock on their behalf.”

In addition to helping actors, dancers, singers and models remain connected to the industry via their cell phones and PDAs; Elite Casting Network also provides several additional high tech options. Members can upload video and audio clips on their personal Elite Casting Network websites to showcase their acting, singing, dancing and modeling talents. They can also network with aspiring and established performers as well as entertainment industry professionals via the website’s interactive video chat rooms. The website also provides interactive business cards for its members to help them generate additional exposure for themselves and make a great impression on industry professionals.

“We’re always developing new and exciting applications on our website so that members have all of the tools they need to launch successful careers,” says Jonathan Parker, founder of www.EliteCastingNetwork.com. “It’s a very challenging industry, but we’re doing everything we can to make it easier for our members.”

For more information on the advanced technology and cutting edge applications Elite Casting Network uses to help aspiring singers, dancers, actors and models stay connected to the entertainment business and remain competitive in an ever-changing industry, visit hhttp://www.EliteCastingNetwork.com.

How To Pick A Vocal Coach

If one of your New Year’s resolutions was to become a better singer then you may be considering taking voice lessons this year. Training is a very important part of seriously pursuing a career in the entertainment industry, so when you’re searching for a teacher or coach, you want to make sure that you are working with a top notch professional that will really help you take your talent to the next level.

Finding a teacher or a coach is no different than purchasing a car, or making a huge financial decision. You want to be sure that you do your homework, as well as ask lots of questions to be sure you’ll be happy with your choice.

If you’re looking for a vocal coach or singing teacher, here are a few questions you may want to ask:

• What formal education and/or training do you have?
• How long have you been singing? How long have you been teaching?
• What’s your vocal range?
• What styles are you most familiar with? (Ex. musical theater, jazz, pop, opera…)
• Have you received any awards or commendations?
• What’s the age range of your students?
• Are you a member of any professional organizations such as the National Association of Teachers of Singing or the Voice and Speech Trainers Association?
• What are your primary areas of instruction? (Ex. singing technique, performance coaching…)
• Where are your lessons held? (Ex. in a studio, in the home…)
• What’s the cost of each session?
• Do you have a list of references?

You should also meet with the prospective teacher to be sure that you would be comfortable with him or her. Additionally, you should ask them to sing for you, which will also aid you in your decision.

Another great way to find a teacher is by asking friends and trusted sources for references. Visit http://www.StarSearchCasting.com and check out some of the vocal coaches we have listed on our site. You can also post a request for references in our community forum. Happy hunting!

Set Your Sights On Competition In 2008

Ever wonder how your talent compares to other aspiring performers? Participating in competitions is a great way to gauge how you measure up in the industry, as well as increase your confidence and get additional performing experience. It’s also a great way to get exposure and boost your resume.

To make the most out of your competition experience:

Target competitions that are geared towards helping performers launch a professional career – especially competitions that either have celebrity judges or have a reputation of being well attended by industry professionals.

Make sure you’re aware of all scheduled deadlines, rehearsals and performances. You don’t want to blow your big break because you didn’t get your application in on time or because you missed your audition.

Be sure that you’re aware of all of the requirements - especially any required fees - so that you’re prepared. Whether it’s a singing, modeling, acting or dance competition, be sure that you have everything you’ll need from your repertoire to your wardrobe – and if you don’t have something, make sure you take care of it well in advance.

Take advantage of opportunities to network. Remain focused on the competition, but be sure that you build relationships with participants, staff and other individuals that could potentially help you in the future.

Have fun! Winning isn’t everything. If you don’t win your first competition, there are lots more out there. And with all of the experience that you get from your first competition, you’ll be even more prepared for the next.

For a list of talent competitions, visit our ‘Talent Resources’ page at http://www.EliteCastingNetwork.com. You can also visit our community forum to ask other Star Search Casting members which competitions they’ve participated in to help them boost their careers. Good luck!

How The Writers’ Strike Is Impacting Actors

I was talking to a friend of mine the other day who is a working actor. He has appeared in several films and television shows, including a recent role on ER

on NBC. Normally his day is consumed with auditions, but when I talked to him he had actually just finished working a 9-5 job at a local Los Angeles office and was preparing to go and teach an evening acting class.

The Writers Guild of America strike has left many actors all over the country out of work, and uncertain of what's ahead for them in the near future. With the number of auditions dramatically reduced and a number of projects on hold, many actors are taking temporary jobs so that they don't deplete their savings while they await the outcome of the strike.

So what's an actor to do? For many it's a toss up. According to SAG, actors who were in the middle of the project cannot be placed on unpaid hiatus. Instead the studios must either: 1) terminate the actor; 2) put series regulars on hold at full salary; or 3) suspend the actors for a period of up to five weeks at half pay.

For other actors who weren't contracted for a role at the time of the strike, it seems they may have a lot of idle time on their hands indefinitely. If you're an actor and you're out of work due to the strike, don't get discouraged. In your free time, perhaps consider:

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• Taking or teaching an acting class
• Trying your hand at standup comedy to sharpen your comedic skills
• Volunteering at a local organization
• Supporting the writers by joining the picket line

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Some may view the lull as evidence of the tumultuous nature of the industry but every industry experiences downturns. Just ask any real estate agent or dot com investor. All we can do is wait it out. In the meantime, there are still lots of projects that are not being affected by the strike. Visit http://www.EliteCastingNetwork.com for a list of casting notices for projects that are forging ahead with production.

Member Spotlight: Lianne Lin

The year is off to an exciting start at Star Search Casting and we’re excited to see how all of our members progress as they pursue their dreams of working in the entertainment industry. We’re always exceedingly proud when we hear of the great opportunities that our members seizing in order to make their dreams come true.

One Star Search Casting member is really taking the industry by storm. Lianne Lin is a multi-talented actress, model, writer and makeup artist. While she has a number of interests, she has managed to juggle them all and successfully land opportunities in all of her fields of interest. Lianne has appeared on a number of popular television shows including How I Met Your Mother, Ugly Betty, Entourage and CSI Miami. What great exposure! These are some of the most highly rated shows on television! Additionally, Lianne has appeared in several films including Super Sweet 16: The Movie and Norbit.

Like many models, Lianne has completely immersed herself in her craft and in addition to a long list of print modeling jobs, modeling competitions and promo modeling opportunities, Lianne has also become an experienced photographer and makeup artist as well. It sounds like there’s nothing that Lianne can’t do!

We’d like to congratulate Lianne on all of her success. It’s always inspiring to hear how Star Search Casting members are taking Hollywood by storm and doing what they love best. If you ever get discouraged, remember that if other Star Search Casting members are paving their way toward stardom – there’s no reason that you can’t too!

For more information on Star Search Casting members or to learn more about other members’ experiences in the entertainment industry, visit http://www.StarSearchCasting.com today. Good luck to all of you!