Costs for Acting / Actor Materials: THE COST OF ACTING

Acting Agent Commission Fees:

Principal Agents represent you if you're an actor accustomed to getting speaking roles. They charge commission on your gross earnings: 15% for film and television work; 10% for live theater. Principal agents may ask you to cover small costs like courier fees (such fees should not add up to more than $20 a month.) Principal agents do not charge registration fees.

Background Agents represent people who work as extras. They charge a 15% commission on your gross earnings and if you are not an ACTRA or SAG mamber, they may charge a $15-$75 registration fee.

The Cost of Actors Materials:

Actor Headshot Photos (three rolls, black & white) --- $120-$175 US or $175-$200 CDN
NOTE: You agent may advise you to do up to three looks (ex. seroius/drama, commercial, fun/goofy) for different roles.

A good actor's headshot should be smiling, soft and approachable.

Photo Reproductions (for one hundred 8x10 glossies) --- $80-90 US or $120-130 CDN

Résumés --- provided free by agent

Classes --- per hour: $7-$12 US or $10-$15 CDN

Online Portfolio --- Free, or get better exposure by paying between $59 to $245 US
Sign up for a free portfolio or view prices for enhanced portfolios
Next to headshots, this is your most important expense. You will need a New Faces Models & Talent online portfolio in order to get agency representation and high-profile acting jobs that could change your career.
NOTE: Deluxe Portfolio is recommended so that you can show more looks to casting agents.