As an actor it’s time to really consider what your reel can do for you. Exposure, potential jobs, and a first impression of your essence and ability to those who haven’t seen your work. Many actors think they will save time and money doing this themselves but in the end they don’t. Almost every actor who has edited their own reel has come to us afterwards to re-cut it. Why? Firstly, an actor cannot be objective about themselves. Second, editing a demo reel is a skill that professionals can do better than you. Yes, it’s true. You wouldn’t attempt to fill your own tooth rather than go to a dentist would you? A professional editor knows how to showcase your talent, can tell a visual story with your clips with the skill and experience of having edited hundreds of other projects. A professional editor has the software and skill to hide flaws in video and audio that you probably don’t have. Editing is an art form just like acting. So do yourself a favor and trust a professional editor to create a dynamic, engaging, and succinct demo reel.
In the New Year it’s important to brand yourself toward what goals you want to accomplish; do you want to be taken more seriously? Then present yourself in the most professional way possible. What really sets you apart from the competition is how you project yourself to others. Your acting reel and what it conveys about you is the most important tool to accomplish this.
Over the past couple of blogs we have been able to touch on how you as an actor may be able to change your branding and boost your response from casting calls, now let’s take things home. When you brand yourself you really get to choose where you want your career to go, you choose which direction your future is headed and ultimately take control over your acting path. But be smart and choose a team that can assist you with the tools you need. Professional editor, photographer, acting coach, PR, etc. You need a team of professionals to help you. Celebrities do! Giving yourself the same advantage will help set yourself years ahead of the competition.
So don’t waste precious time cutting corners. Value yourself by valuing the professionals and the skills they provide.