top of page

From Hobby to Career: A Beginner's Guide to Making Money from Acting

A Beginner's Guide to Making Money from Acting with Danish actress Liv Hansen


As an actress based in Copenhagen, I know first-hand the challenges of turning a passion for acting into a sustainable career. It's not easy, but with hard work, dedication, and the right mindset, it's possible. In this beginner's guide, I'll share some tips and insights that can help you make money from acting, whether you're just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level.


Build a Strong Foundation

Before you can start making money from acting, you need to build a strong foundation of skills and experience. Take acting classes, workshops, and courses to hone your craft, and get involved in community theater productions and student films to gain practical experience. This will not only improve your acting skills but also help you build a portfolio of work that you can showcase to potential employers.


Create a Professional Portfolio

Your portfolio should showcase your acting abilities, as well as your range and versatility. It should include your headshot, resume, demo reel, and any other relevant materials that demonstrate your talent and experience. You can create a digital portfolio on your own website or use a platform like Actors Access, Backstage, or e-Talenta to showcase your work to casting directors and agents.



Find Representation

To increase your chances of landing paid acting gigs, it's a good idea to find representation from a reputable agent or manager at the right time. They can help you find auditions, negotiate contracts, and provide guidance and support throughout your career. You can find agents and managers through online directories or by attending industry events and networking with professionals in the field.


Be Open to Different Types of Work

While your ultimate goal may be to land a lead role in a major film or TV series, it's important to be open to different types of work, including commercials, voice-over, and stage productions. These opportunities can help you gain exposure and build your reputation as a professional actor. Plus, they can often lead to bigger and better opportunities down the line.


Be Persistent

Making a career out of acting is not easy, and it requires persistence, dedication, and a positive attitude. You will most likely face rejection and setbacks along the way, but it's important to stay focused on your goals and keep pushing forward. Take care of yourself physically and mentally, and surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, and fellow actors and mentors who can offer encouragement and advice when you need it.


Making a living from acting requires hard work, determination, and a willingness to learn and grow. By building a strong foundation and staying consistent and optimistic you can turn your passion for acting into a career. If you would like to connect, you can find me on Instagram @liv_hansen and https://www.facebook.com/livhansenactor.



Comments


bottom of page