A commercial actor’s lifestyle can vary widely depending on their level of success and the types of projects they work on. Here are some aspects of my commercial acting lifestyle that I have experienced.
Being a commercial actor is a joyous journey! It’s a space where I can express the creativity that resides within me. I get to play different roles, but what’s truly special is the collaboration with diverse teams. Together, we create magic and sometimes, we’re even part of iconic ad campaigns. It’s a unique and enjoyable industry, where teamwork and creativity go hand in hand.
1. Auditions: The audition process for commercial actors is a thrilling journey. It often involves recording self-tapes, script preparation, setting and lighting, camera and equipment, performance, recording, editing, wardrobe, and props. Self-tapes are a common and exciting part of the industry, and with practice and patience, they can be your stepping stone to success. Treat the self-tape audition as seriously as an in-person one, and let the excitement fuel your performance.
2. Irregular Income: While it’s true that commercial actors’ income can be irregular, it’s important to remember the potential for high earnings when they book commercials. These periods of financial success can be followed by periods with little to no work, but the possibility of a lucrative booking is always there, keeping the hope alive.
3. Lifestyle: A commercial actor’s life is a constant balancing act. They need to be flexible with their schedules, often juggling auditions, rehearsals, and shoots. This can require quick changes to their plans. The ability to adapt and be flexible is a key trait in this industry, and it’s important for aspiring actors to be ready for these changes.
4. Networking: In the commercial acting industry, relationships are everything. Commercial actors must not only create but also build and maintain relationships in the entertainment industry. They attend industry events and network with casting directors, agents, and fellow actors. These connections can open doors and pave the way for your success, emphasizing the value of networking in this industry.
5. Physical Appearance: I quickly learned that maintaining my physical appearance was part of my job. This can include staying in shape, grooming, and sometimes changing one’s look to fit specific roles.
6. Travel: The life of a commercial actor is filled with exciting opportunities to travel for shoots. These could be for commercials, films, or even photo shoots, taking you to both local and international locations, adding a thrilling element to your work.
7. Financial Planning: Mastering the art of financial planning is crucial for commercial actors. With irregular income, it’s essential to be diligent and strategic during lean periods. This skill is not only beneficial for your acting career but also for managing your personal finances. I also enjoy running my e-commerce business. Click Here and Here
We are a small team of creatives. We work in a stress-free environment, which ultimately reflects what we deliver.
8. Skill Development: The journey of skill development in acting is a continuous one. Many actors, including myself, invest in classes and workshops to hone their craft. My training has been a mix of dedication, hard work, fun, and laughter, making it a memorable experience. You can check them out: Maile School and Book From Tape. I also attend workshops with John Peros, Jim Braswell, Leeza Perez, Adam Vernier, Lori Wyman, and Terry Berland . WOW, has this been a “Powerful Experience” I just had to share with all of you. Join me if interested; get in on the FUN and ADVENTURE. We are going for an exciting ride!
9. Emotional Resilience: Rejection is expected in the acting industry, and commercial actors need emotional resilience to handle rejection and maintain confidence. I started as a commercial actor because I wanted to fix some self-esteem issues I was dealing with. I attended classes at the Maile School—modeling, commercial, and image development. After the first class, I saw how I felt and how my confidence level increased dramatically, so I kept returning for more. I was welcomed by a beautiful experience.
10. Publicity and Promotion: Some actors engage in self-promotion through social media or personal branding to increase their visibility and chances of getting cast. You can connect with me here on the blog or on IG @monica_nielsen_, where I started sharing my journey.
It’s important to remember that a commercial actor’s lifestyle can evolve significantly with high success and industry recognition. This can bring about a more stable income and greater control over projects. So, while the journey may have its ups and downs, there’s always the potential for a rewarding and fulfilling career in the entertainment industry.