In recent years, Atlanta has become a hub for the television and film industry. With tax incentives that benefit production and post-production, opportunities for diverse filming locations and abundant infrastructure, Georgia has earned its title as “Hollywood of the South” and “Y’allywood.”
Wondering how to break into the Atlanta film industry? Here are some tips to discover your talent:
Engage in Local Acting Classes
Educational workshops and classes are great ways to get experience and make industry contacts! Atlanta has a network of theaters and studios that offer classes for aspiring actors and writers.
The Premier Actors’ Network is one of Atlanta’s most popular acting schools, led by working professional actor Dwayne Boyd. The school prepares actors for audition cold readings and on-camera work, and covers other topics like monologue, character development and improvisation. Past and current students have worked on films throughout Georgia, including The Hunger Games, Abbott Elementary, The Vampire Diaries, and The Walking Dead.
For actors looking to get on stage and hone their skills, the Alliance Theater hosts general auditions throughout the year to network with working professionals and discover new, local talent. The theater also encourages script submissions from up-and-coming professionals and hosts the annual Kendeda National Graduate Playwright competition. It is a great opportunity for writers of all backgrounds, whether for film, television or theater, to receive honest feedback and strengthen their works.
Catapult Acting Studios in Atlanta also offers classes for actors of all ages. Actors aged 18 and up are encouraged to join sessions throughout the year, ranging in experience levels from beginner to advanced. Other services include private coaching, audition taping, industry consultations, headshots and voiceover guidance.
Start with Smaller Roles
One of the easiest ways to get on set and learn about the film process is through a background role. You learn first-hand the terminology and etiquette needed to thrive on set. Scanning social media is a strategic place to start since most casting calls are posted there. Looking for pages to follow? These Atlanta casting sites will point you in the direction of background roles in your neighborhood.
For more significant projects, Backstage and Casting Networks are also excellent resources for finding “extra” roles. You will have to filter down to just local opportunities, but they have dozens of jobs show up daily.
After you navigate working in background roles, look for speaking roles. Local creatives always seek volunteers to fill speaking roles in their short films. While most are unpaid, experience is more important, and your role will likely earn you material for future auditions. Connect with local networks, such as Atlanta Film Production Group, Atlanta Film Community and Atlanta Actors Network, to score speaking roles in no time!
Come Prepared for Auditions
You should always bring two items to auditions: a headshot and a demo reel of your acting experience. Casting directors review thousands of headshots daily, so spending the money on a professional one that stands out is crucial. Many acting schools offer headshot services, but there are also many independent photographers who specialize in professional and theatrical headshots.
Investing in a high-quality demo reel is also necessary for success. Take clips from your previous speaking roles to a professional and transform them into a one-minute reel that captures your unique talent.
Hire A Talent Agent
Chasing down roles can feel exhausting for new actors. Your talent agent can help you find roles and advocate on your behalf to casting directors. A great place to start looking for an agent is in your acting classes. Ask around and find out who your friends are working with.
Since the Georgia film industry is so vast, there are many agency options to choose from:
Whether you are new to the film industry or looking to relocate to Atlanta, Georgia is a booming location for all things entertainment. Stay updated on the Atlanta News page for more information about Atlanta’s film industry!
