If you know you want to be an actor and it will fulfil you, then it will be worth the journey. Remember, the absence of experience should never define your potential. Instead, think of it as a blank canvas and an opportunity to find your unique voice and create your own path.
Countless successful actors started from scratch without experience and in fact, many actor stories are never the same. All your non-acting experiences, mishaps and detours will add to your distinctive perspectives and story development. Drawing from the tapestry of your own life, you infuse your characters with a depth that cannot be taught or replicated.
It is through embracing your own story that you can fully embrace the stories of others. So, cherish every detour, embrace every blooper, and honour every non-acting experience that will contribute to your growth.
An acting career is not like any other job, there is no permanent contract or strict pathway. Therefore, it is essential to have a healthy mindset, realistic expectations and a commitment to yourself to create a peaceful balance whilst pursuing acting. That’s why our guide will not only provide you with insights on becoming an actor without any prior experience, but it will also serve as a compass, offering essential reminders to keep you firmly on the right track.
Things to do before pursuing acting
1. Get clear on your why
As with anything in life, understanding why you want it will motivate you and give you direction. If you want to be an actor because you want to tell stories that help people grow, then you will pursue these roles. If you want to be an actor to make people laugh and feel happy, then you will find yourself drawn to comedies and sitcoms. Understanding why you want to be an actor will ensure that your journey is more internal and fulfilling, rather than striving to achieve the goals you think you need.
2. Set realistic goals and expectations of yourself
Pursuing any craft can be hard and disappointing if you set insane goals and never pause to be grateful for the small wins. Before you start pursuing this career, you should define what success means to you and establish the smaller stepping stones. You don’t want to wake up one day and realise so much time has passed and you have not enjoyed the journey. Even if you never reach your “end goal”, making smaller realistic expectations will help you embrace your successes and bloopers positively.
3. Enrich your life with many options
Unfortunately, one of the bad things about acting is that you must find another income source when pursuing your dream. However, don’t look at it as a “survival job” as it is unhealthy to live in survival mode. Instead, look at it as an opportunity to enrich your life with many opportunities, crafts and experiences. Do not shame yourself for working a full-time job outside of acting, take every lesson as a memory you will one day draw upon for a role.
Now you have set a healthy mindset, let’s get into all the ways you can become an actor with no experience. Enjoy every minute of it because trust us, there will be many bloopers.
17 Steps on how to become an actor without any experience

1. Get a killer headshot
Although it can be tough to invest money before you make money, a headshot is worth the spend. A headshot will most likely be the first impression a casting director or agent will see of you. It is more than just a photograph, it is a representation of your personality and potential. Research photographer styles that speak to you and ensure you get a package for more than 1 final image. Read reviews so you can choose a photographer that will work with you to get your look, rather than direct you. After all, nobody knows your face more than you.

2. Understand acting methods and techniques
One of the most essential steps is understanding the acting methods and techniques used to naturally embody complex characters. Not all methods will resonate with you and you will have to find a technique that works for you. Some prominent methods worth exploring are:
- Stanislavski’s System: Developed by Konstantin Stanislavski, this approach emphasises realistic and psychologically grounded performances. It focuses on the actor’s inner emotional life, the use of objectives, motivations and imagination, and the creation of truthful and believable characters.
- Meisner Technique: The Meisner Technique, developed by Sanford Meisner, emphasises listening, reacting truthfully, and living “in the moment.” It encourages actors to connect with their scene partners and respond spontaneously, allowing for organic and truthful performances.
- Stella Adler Technique: Stella Adler’s technique focuses on understanding the given circumstances of a scene and developing the character’s imagination and physicality. It explores the use of actions, objectives, and given circumstances to create rich and layered performances, including blushing on cue authentically.
3. Work on your voice
Your voice is a crucial tool as an actor. We don’t just mean being able to do accents, although this is helpful. Your voice will enhance your versatility, emotional range and expressiveness. Learn how to warm up your voice and play with diction, pitch, projection and resonance. This is an acting skill you can practice at home! Rehearse different versions of a monologue you like in the mirror, record yourself and note the character changes with different voice techniques.
4. Nail a monologue
Choose a monologue that resonates with you and dive deep into analysing the text and character. Every character in a scene will have an objective and desire which informs how they speak, gesture and react. Practise a monologue in the mirror or in front of close friends and keep tweaking until you feel the truth of the character.
5. Join a local theatre group
Joining a local theatre group can be a transformative step for aspiring actors. By becoming a part of a theatre community, you gain invaluable opportunities to hone your skills, gain practical experience, and connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for acting. Through rehearsals, performances, and workshops, you’ll develop your craft, expand your repertoire, and build confidence on stage. Additionally, being involved in a theatre group exposes you to a diverse range of roles, allowing you to explore different characters and genres. It’s a platform to showcase your talent, receive constructive feedback, and grow as an actor within a collaborative and inspiring artistic community.
6. Attend acting classes
Many short-term acting classes are available for actors of all levels so don’t feel afraid to join without experience. Acting classes provide a structured environment where you can learn and refine essential acting techniques, explore different styles, and expand your range as a performer. Professional acting instructors guide you through exercises, improvisation, scene work, and script analysis, helping you develop a deeper understanding of character development, emotional expression, and stage presence. Moreover, these classes often provide networking opportunities, allowing you to connect with industry professionals and fellow actors who can offer guidance, mentorship, and potential collaborations.
7. Build an online casting profile
There are many great online casting websites where you can apply for roles and promote yourself, even without experience. Starnow and Backstage are perfect for those starting out and you are able to apply for roles without any credits on your profile. Craft a compelling bio that highlights your unique qualities, skills, and achievements as an actor or relevant skills. Regularly update your profile with new headshots, showreel clips, and credits to reflect your latest work. A well-curated and professional online casting profile increases your visibility, opens doors to new opportunities, and serves as a powerful tool in the competitive acting industry.

8. Apply for short films
Applying for short films is an excellent way for aspiring actors to gain valuable on-camera experience and showcase their talent. Short films often provide opportunities for emerging actors to collaborate with up-and-coming filmmakers and build their professional network. To apply for short films, start by researching local film organisations, film schools, online platforms, and casting websites that post casting calls for short film projects.
Networking with local filmmakers and attending film festivals or industry events can also lead to short film opportunities. By actively seeking out and applying for short films, you can gain valuable on-set experience, expand your acting portfolio, and increase your exposure within the independent film community.

9. Create your own work
This may seem like an overwhelming suggestion but it is the number one way to ensure you have a role and story that portrays your skills. You may or may not feel like a screenwriter, but that should not stop you from creating work. Collaborate with other artists, such as writers, directors, or fellow actors, who can help you create work to leverage multiple skills. Promote your work on casting platforms, social media, YouTube, or independent film festivals. It can serve as a calling card to attract the attention of industry professionals and open doors to new opportunities. So, embrace your creativity, take charge of your career, and create projects that reflect your artistic vision and talent.
10. Build your reel
A reel is a compilation of your best acting work captured on film or video. It showcases your range, versatility, and acting abilities to potential casting directors, agents, and industry professionals. To build your reel, start by gathering footage of your performances from projects such as short films, student films, theatre productions, or independent films. If you don’t have professional footage yet, consider creating your own scenes or monologues specifically for your reel. Aim to include a variety of scenes that highlight different genres, characters, and emotions, demonstrating your range and acting skills. Edit the footage together into a cohesive and engaging reel, keeping it concise and attention-grabbing. A well-crafted reel can make a lasting impression and serve as a powerful tool to showcase your talent, attracting the attention of industry professionals and increasing your chances of landing auditions and roles.
11. Gain other skills
Gaining other skills is one of the benefits of acting and can greatly boost your career and make you a more well-rounded performer. While acting is your primary focus, developing additional skills can offer versatility and increase your value as an actor. Consider exploring disciplines such as singing, dancing, improvisation, stage combat, or dialect training. These skills can open doors to a wider range of roles and increase your marketability in different performance mediums. Additionally, acquiring technical skills like filmmaking, editing, or writing can empower you to create your own work and take creative control over your projects. Investing time in personal development, such as public speaking, communication, or emotional intelligence, can also enhance your ability to connect with characters and audiences on a deeper level. Embrace opportunities to learn and grow in various areas, as they can enhance your acting abilities, expand your professional network, and make you a more versatile and valuable actor.
12. Get inspiration from other actors
Watch as many films, tv shows and theatre performances as you can! It’s not just about sitting back and enjoying the show; it’s about actively observing their magic tricks and stealing… um, I mean, borrowing their tricks of the trade. Observe their techniques, physicality, vocal choices, and emotional range to learn new approaches and expand your own acting repertoire. Take note of how they interpret characters, convey emotions, and captivate audiences. Explore a variety of acting styles and genres to broaden your understanding and appreciation of the craft. Allow the inspiration you gather to inform and enrich your own work, while also cultivating your individuality and authenticity as a performer.
This doesn’t have to be limited to acting skills only. Jenna Rodway practices mindfulness meditation as an actor and believes it can enhance your acting presence and ability.
13. Learn how to audition
Learning how to audition, and what to wear, is like unlocking the secret code to landing those dream roles. First things first, preparation is key. You have to know the script inside out, understand your character’s motivations, and bring that role to life. Practise those lines until they become second nature, and don’t forget to bring your own unique spin to the character. Now, when you step into that audition room, nerves might try to creep in, but take a deep breath and remember that you’re there to show them what you’ve got. Be confident, be yourself, and let your talent shine. Oh, and don’t forget to make a lasting impression. Show them that you’re not just another face in the crowd.
Remember, even if you don’t land the role, every audition is a chance to learn and grow. Add it to your blooper reel in your mind and use it to keep moving forward.
14. Go to open casting calls
Open calls are casting sessions that are open to actors of all levels of experience, providing a chance to be seen by casting directors and potentially land roles in film, television, or theatre productions. These calls are typically publicly advertised, and actors are invited to come in and audition for specific roles or projects. Participating in open casting calls allows actors to showcase their skills, gain exposure, and potentially make connections with industry professionals. It’s important to come prepared with a headshot, resume, and any required audition materials. While the competition can be fierce, attending open casting calls can be a stepping stone towards fulfilling your acting aspirations.
15. Network
As an actor, you never know who you might meet or where your next role might come from. Attend industry events, film festivals, and theatre performances to connect with fellow actors, directors, casting directors, and agents. Engage in conversations, exchange contact information, and follow up with people you meet. Join professional organisations, workshops, or classes where you can interact with industry professionals. Networking isn’t just about promoting yourself; it’s about building genuine relationships and offering support to others in the industry. Remember, the acting community is a tight-knit one, and word-of-mouth can play a significant role in landing auditions and roles. So, put yourself out there, be genuine, and seize every opportunity to network. You never know when a chance encounter or a meaningful connection might lead to your next big break.

16. Start as an Extra/Background Actor
Starting as an extra or background actor can be a valuable stepping stone in your acting career. Think of it as dipping your toes into the vibrant world of film and television production. As an extra, you have the opportunity to observe and learn from experienced professionals while getting a taste of the industry firsthand. Although background roles may not involve speaking lines or prominent screen time, they provide valuable on-set experience and exposure to the inner workings of a production. Being an extra allows you to network with other industry professionals, including casting directors and fellow actors. It’s a chance to showcase your professionalism, work ethic, and adaptability. So, embrace the opportunity to start as an extra, soak up the atmosphere, and use it as a stepping stone towards larger roles and greater visibility in the industry.
17. Seek representation
Seeking representation is a pivotal step in advancing your acting career. Having a talent agent or manager can open doors to more auditions, better opportunities, and industry connections. They act as your advocate, working on your behalf to secure auditions, negotiate contracts, and guide your career trajectory. When seeking representation, do your research to find reputable agencies or managers that specialise in your area of interest. Send personalised submissions to agencies or attend industry events where you can network with agents and managers directly. Remember, finding the right representation is a partnership, so choose someone who believes in your potential and shares your vision.
Get out there now you know how to become an actor without experience!
If you have set your expectations and know why you want to be an actor, pursuing it without experience becomes less daunting. Enjoy every moment in finding your unique acting voice, techniques and stories. If it is worth pursuing, it is worth appreciating every step.
The journey may not always be smooth so it is always important to have the right mindset and seek opportunities that are fulfilling. Embrace your bloopers and mishaps along the way and add it to your list of experiences you can draw upon for characters.