sample email to casting director
So with all that in mind, here’s an email I responded to from an actor recently that follows everything that I laid out in this post. Phone: 555-555-5555. Holding large open calls with more than 4,000 actors for casting roles of leads, background actors, day-player roles, stand-ins, and photo doubles. I just read your post about “how to email a producer or casting director”, thank you for writing this post, I found it to be very informative and helpful. Doesn’t that just sound like the laziest thing in the world? It ranges from writing to independent production and even distribution. Passionate Casting Director who understands that selecting the right talent for a particular role is very important to relate with the character. Thanks for the comment and for checking out the blog. I work hard, show up early, and absolutely love the art of filmmaking. The only other thing Jason put in the email was an updated headshot and his direct contact information. Create My Cover Letter. Currently in acting classes, submitting myself through sites for acting jobs, social media, IMDB pro and acted in a few short films and background acting in feature film and tv show. Becoming an actor, model, or performer is tough. Thank you:). Thanks for the comment. All Rights Reserved. Sample Cover Letters Casting Directors Children's Agents. This was one of only 4 emails I got about this role and this was the ONLY one that was worth actually responding to – and he got an audition. _____, (2 blank lines) (This is the body of the letter.) Very good content. Thought I might be right for “chuck: in IMMORTAL. Otherwise, it’s just a vanity exercise. Useful and important for good working relations. This Casting Director Agreement also sets forth the independent contractor status of the casting director. People have a tendency to cloak a request as a thank-you note. I can tell you’re a good person. Booking talent, preparing casting sessions, monitoring studio logs, supervising staff, and managing extensive talent databases as Casting Director for the Chicago Casting Company. Hiring Process. which is a film we’re both in (now in post-production), so it was a nice surprise to see his name mentioned. Don’t attach cover letters as separate documents. If they’re casting that project there’s an implied obligation to open it. So if they’re casting something you are right for – let’s say the project is called “Hole in the Head” I would make the subject line “Re: Hole in the head.” It’s really that simple. First of all, you’ll need to book a space in which to host auditions. If you’ve been in a bunch of shorts or features that have premiered at major film festivals – that’s worth mentioning as independent filmmakers are always looking for an edge to get our films into the big film festivals (if it’s not Sundance, SXSW, Tribeca, Cannes, or Toronto though don’t even bother – nobody cares and it makes you look like you don’t know what you’re talking about). In our previous guide to the film industry, we discussed, “What does a casting director do?” Check out that article to learn the ins and outs of the entertainment industry. The email itself will act as the cover letter. WHAAAAAT? Choose from multiple design options to make your cover letter stand out. I’m not suggesting that you bombard them with e-mails (don’t do that!) Thank you! I know that most of my roles I write to be open to any race myself. Not to long ago I started watching more shows and it made me obsessed with acting and I would be extremely happy an honored to at least get an email back. ... email IMDb vanity url or website page (if available) (DO NOT ADD YOUR HOME ADDRESS) Title: COVER LETTER TO A CASTING DIRECTOR Here are some lines people have used that I thought worked well: “I know I’m not supposed to email you directly but…” Research their contact information and send a self-submission with your marketing materials. Don’t lie and say you know someone in distribution or at a film festival when you really don’t. When the acting portfolios start rolling in, you’ll need to organize an audition day; this is the part which will test your casting director and organizational skills to the extreme. This Casting Director Agreement is between a producer and a casting director who will provide services in connection with the casting of a motion picture. If you’re sending a cold email just know that everyone’s first reaction is to get a little annoyed so starting off with a small apology is totally appropriate. Before you decide to email a casting director, make sure you have your marketing materials in order. Casting Calls and news is updated daily get the industry news here! ... email IMDb vanity url or website page (if available) (DO NOT ADD YOUR HOME ADDRESS) Title: COVER LETTER TO A CASTING DIRECTOR It was very helpful to me on how to proceed to content and connect with casting directors. So thank you for the time you took into writing this! Required fields are marked *. Casting directors find talent for roles in film, television, theater, and commercial work. Is it alright to email a Casting Director? I’m a fan already! If you are submitting for a role, please read this post! And that’s who I strive to be…. I remember auditioning for commercials when I was sixteen. This will work as your targeted list. Hi I’m a British actress writing to a British casting director. Raising their … Join Project Casting to access jobs you can apply for right now! Get Discovered! But if you want to get booked, or at least get asked to audition for roles you hear about, you have to submit through one of the standard casting sites like actors access or the breakdown services. Don’t attach cover letters as separate documents. Filled with investments. Though I may be shy at first, I most definitely will warm up to people, however when it comes to acting I will do anything in my behalf to act. Your cover letter should be brief, polite and to the point. This will also help you keep the casting director in your files. PROFILE. And it took nobody getting back to me, along with a bit of hindsight, to learn from this. Join Project Casting to access jobs you can apply for right now! However, if you do not have adequate representation and looking to book an audition for a role, then you may want to email a casting director for opportunities. I watched your trailer for “I’d Like to be Alone Now” and I can’t wait to see it when it gets released. If you don’t have a laundry list of great credits though you can still win over someone with a little research. If you have a talent agent or a manager and are getting a lot of acting auditions, you should not have to submit directly to a casting director, producer, or network. but an e-mail even now and again, especially when you have something interesting to share is going to help you get noticed. Thank you, Jon Dabach!!!! Trying to be cute doesn’t really work. Would like some help with how to get into acting or becoming an extra. When you apply for a film job online, you will send them a short email (cover letter), perhaps with a link to your portfolio and attach your resume in PDF. When you email photos, Casting Directors ask that you send the file as an attachment or as a small-medium sized image if you’re including it in the body of the email. Nobody else does this! Also, don’t email casting directors you don’t know and ask them how you can get an agent. The short answer – anything it takes. Take your time and do your research on the casting director. Good luck with the acting career…I can’t speak for everyone but I know that I never watch reels unless I’m casting a project. Include a brief cover letter introducing yourself. See, when you’re an actor you’re at the mercy of literally everyone until you get on the A-list. Read our guide on how to become an actor to learn how to create a resume, headshot, and contact information. Here are some examples: Dear (talent agency name), Enclosed is a photo of my baby Arlene. If anyone even gets a whiff of a generic email it goes in the trash. After having a nice size role in THE BIRTH OF A NATION, and appearing in TANGERINE and LOVE IS STRANGE, I was changed as an artist and a human being. I wish to be an actress someday but I doubt that that will be possible, but that doesn't bother me. JUST STOP. Get creative. But, an email to a casting director is just the start. TV casting directors have a quick turn-around for a role. It’s very easy to see when someone is sending a generic email that they send to every filmmaker. Filmmakers talk to each other….a lot. Include her name, mailing address, phone number, email address and the projects she casts. If you have previously met with a casting director, attach a separate note saying where you guys met and what you have done recently. But it can be every easy to make simple mistakes which get the recipient reaching for the delete button. However, we do not recommend sending a casting director a letter or gift for an audition. https://www.projectcasting.com/tips-and-advice/email-casting-director Sending a 'Follow-Up' is MORE than a 'Thank You'; it is a reinforcement of who you are and why they should forge a relationship with you. My favourite story regarding an actor contacting a casting director was the one when they sent a single shoe with a note attached saying, “ Just trying to get my foot in the door”. “Forgive my boldness, but…” As a casting director, I’m constantly meeting and communicating with actors. _____, (2 blank lines) (This is the body of the letter.) Keep at it! I made it about four months before the sting of rejection really just got me down. I have been very determined to be an actor since I was 10 years old, though my family doesn’t know that because for some reason I feel nervous to act around them because I would feel judged. It’s always better to err on the side of restraint, and a lack of presumption. Thank you for writing this post! We’re all in this together, and there are not “us” vs. “them” divisions, but here are some tips and 0 suggestions of what to do and what not to do. Take classes. Begin with Positive not Negative. Thank you soooo much for this piece of advice! Nobody does this. If you’re interested in the exact email that Jason wrote to me, he allowed me to post it for you to see here: Forgive my boldness. Even if you were emailing 100 casting directors – that shouldn’t take you more than an hour or so of research – it’s time well invested in my opinion. You are forced to invest your time, family, and even your wallet to make your dream come true. Overall, the goal is to remind casting directors of your acting skills when they begin their next project. The problem with these breakdown services is that you are one of literally hundreds if not one of a thousand submissions for a role. There’s just WAY too much to do and WAY too many actors. So what does an actor do? Just sending something with your picture and saying “Thank You” is enough. Keep at it. However, it can also be very stressful, especially for those trying to get into…. Let me know! If you’re going to send a cold email make it personal and explain why you needed to actually flood my inbox in addition to submitting via the breakdowns. I am sure that I am well suited to this role since I have all the necessary qualifications that you are looking for. All these guys that got in were probably white more than likely. Whether you are looking to audition for Disney, or find the latest movie role to star in, this guide will help you get started with the film industry. E-mail address: hello@kickresume.com. Hiring Process. Been doing this for years no one has ever got back to me and I’m profoundly apologetic and professional when doing so. Your email is your cover letter. “. He was a Jewish immigrant who always said to me, in a thick Polish accent, “When go to the interview, wear a tie and show then you mean business”. The entertainment industry is all about who you know. I took that to mean, “Be your best self”. The momentum of working (whether paid or not) will get you into the mode of producing content and eventually you’ll catch a break. sign up for all the online casting things like Actors Access and start submitting. Name of the Casting Director Name of Casting Company or Show Address City, State, Zip Code (2-3 blank lines) Dear Mr. /Ms. I didn’t have to make him audition either – he clearly had the chops. Are there any roles you think I might be right for?”. The cinematography looks amazing and that music is just brilliant. This technique is usually frowned upon by most casting directors and studio movies. You absolutely have to make it personal to each casting director. It just pisses us off. Have you ever tried to cold email a casting director or a producer for a short film? After that, it’s running the casting sessions, writing a breakdown and constantly updating the casting notice. I appreciate you taking your time and helping people like me out. I very much enjoy these interactions; my admiration for actors has sustained me during three decades in the entertainment business. If you are submitting for a role, please read this post! KEY DATES. Get a good headshot done and submit constantly. Web Design by Rhino Marketing Group. I can tell you that every pain in the ass I’ve worked with is someone I’ve warned my friends about when making their films. If not, I understand and hope to work with you in the future. Nick Cannon Presents Wild 'N Out is now casting and holding auditions. That said, read entertainment news to see what projects are coming soon and see the casting director who is working on the project. Sending a 'Thank You' to the Casting Director can sometimes feel a tad desperate. They’re not even reading the character descriptions that you posted. What in your opinion is the most catchy subject line when submitting to casting directors in general, not related to any specific role? But when I see your work, and your choices and risks you take. Dear Mr. Dubach, Let’s back up for a second. This can blow up in your face fast and not only will you not get the role, you’re smearing your own name. Ultimately, casting directors do not like to get self-submissions as it is not an effective way to manage auditions. There is a whole process of reading the script, breaking down character descriptions, and deciding if they are going to do it. When this occurs, casting directors may ask actors to self-submit with an online video audition for a role. Self-Submission auditions are when an actor submits themselves for a role without the assistance of a talent agent or manager. If you do not have a talent agent or a manager, then the best way to network with a casting director is through an audition, acting class, or showcase. Casting Director 13th Street 4485-214-963 / [email protected] Dallas Bell Recruiter “Media Ltd” Dear Dallas, I am so excited to apply for a position of Casting Director at Media Ltd. Don’t disguise the email as a thank-you note. The goal is to capture an agent’s attention, learn a little bit about you and keep them wanting more! _______________, (2 blank lines) (This is the body of the letter.) Don’t do it. From a recent actor’s email: “As a casting director you may literally … She told me flat out how frustrating it was and how it WILL NOT WORK to pester a casting director. I admit that I am not a casting director so I don’t have to deal with this on a regular basis but it’s great to hear from someone who does! If you do email a casting director (on a weekday! A casting director that we recently had in our online scene club was chatting with me at an event and she told me a couple of our students had emailed her multiple times. Making it as an actor is hard – I mean HAAAAAARD. Director: Jacqueline Patterson Producer: Stanley Jackson Casting Director: Jacqueline Patterson Audition Location: 453 main st Shooting Location: Manhattan Email: [email protected] Compensation: No. Thank you so much. I send out a newsletter from time to time with thoughts on the craft of filmmaking. This agreement sets out the title of the motion picture or screenplay and the payment for casting director’s services. The entertainment industry can be an exciting yet advantageous career pathway. If you see someone who has already been cast in the film and you have a personal connection to them or you’ve worked with them on a previous film – that’s worth mentioning. One way that can be effective is through cold emailing. Casting directors often work hard to push you for a role in a movie or TV show. Here are some guidelines that I think you should use if you decide to write a cold email to a producer or casting director – this is all just my opinion from the cold emails I’ve received when casting so keep in mind not everyone will have these same sentiments when it comes to cold emails from actors. I sure hope it’s not a racial issue. If you do decide to send a gift, then attach your headshot and resume to remind the casting director of your look and acting style. They develop a shortlist of actors to present to the director, producers, and writers. She told me flat out how frustrating it was and how it WILL NOT WORK to pester a casting director. As I read them back, I wanted the ground to swallow me whole. I wish to be an actress someday but I doubt that that will be possible, but that doesn't bother me. Casting Director Cover Letter. Thank you! I’ve been acting since the womb and I’m trying it all to (forget fame) be able to work regularly! The advice you have on this website is so substantually incredible. My Dad passed a few years ago. Your email should be short but it should be more than just one line. Even with more films being made then ever, there are still entirely too many actors for everyone to be working. Is it alright to email a Casting Director? When you apply for a film job online, you will send them a short email (cover letter), perhaps with a link to your portfolio and attach your resume in PDF. This same principal applies for actors reaching out to Casting Directors to ask to be seen for a role or to request a general meeting. Do contact with a purpose My favourite story regarding an act… I am an actress just starting out my career but it’s been a great start. Casting Director Resume Sample (Text version) Christopher Annen. He had a great look, a great reel and some major credits that I was impressed with so it was an easy choice to offer him the role. Some actors decide to produce their own films to showcase their talent, others network, some sit in the corner and cry – and others do all three. Your email is your cover letter. 2. I have been an actor for 3 million years and have appeared in over 140 film & TV shows. One of the best ways to get noticed by a casting director is through self-submissions. Build relationships – it’s everything! “Even though my agent already submitted I just had to contact you personally because…”. Credibility can come in the kind of feedback you’ve received from casting in an audition or workshop or the fact that a casting director has called you in multiple times within the year. You have to point out why you’re writing the email and going the extra mile to try to get your foot in the door. ARRRGGG – I hate those emails. mcarp@email.web Include contact information. They begin by meeting with the director and producers and reading the script. Key Takeaways. To this, Gary would say, “that’s TWO emails!”. Important career DOs and DON’Ts! A casting director that we recently had in our online scene club was chatting with me at an event and she told me a couple of our students had emailed her multiple times. The Guide is an easy way to get familiar with all the CD’s. I especially enjoyed the one about how you got your first feature made – it was really inspiring to see how simple it can be to actually make a movie if you put in some effort. Tessie, I’m just in the process of writing to some British casting directors who cast for soaps. So as much as I’d love to tell you that you should send that email to everyone – it will most likely get trashed. Choose from multiple design options to make your cover letter stand out. Kara Sullivan, a prominent Casting Director in Hollywood says, “I usually meet with them to talk and go over everything and make sure we’re on the same page. Sending out emails to casting directors and directors is a pretty much accepted way of keeping in touch and networking in today's industry. You have to fight not just for the role but for the audition for the role. After you meet a casting director, maintain contact with the casting director by submitting directly to casting directors for projects they are now casting. A thank-you note should be a thank-you note and nothing else, and a request should be just that. I have been a professional actress for a ridiculously short time but not short on an interesting life which brings richness of experience. The other day, I found some emails dating back to 2011, where I’d written to casting directors to introduce myself. Most importantly, do not send money to a casting director; This is completely uncalled for in any relationship, whether if it is in the entertainment industry or not. I would be honored to audition for you or self-tape if you think I have the right look. Send out a mass mailing to all the casting directors on your targeted list. You have to make it personal and/or in relation to a project. This printable Casting Director Guide includes CD listings exported from the CD Connection in NowCasting.com’s Contacts NOW area. Feel free to comment on this post to let me know. Posted by Clark Bullen (2010-01-29) 2315. If the filmmaker is someone you’ve heard of and you’re a fan be sure to mention it. If you’ve seen some of the filmmaker’s previous works (and they’re not a name director) they will usually be impressed that you are a fan. Set The Stage. It’s great that you updated your reel but nobody really cares unless they have a role you’re right for right now. They’re just throwing up things against a wall and seeing if someone will respond – super annoying. Those life experiences definitely make for great fuel as an actor. I recently hired an actor named Jason Stuart (http://www.jasonstuart.com/) for a significant role in the feature I’m currently making and I did so because he wrote me a cold email. It’s a little longer than it needed to be but it was still short enough and relevant enough that I felt like he put in the effort required to actually warrant an audition no matter what he looked like. How are you supposed to stick out in a sea of over 3,000 actors? So in depth, and step by step. Here’s an example of a bad one-line email you should never send a producer or casting director: “Hi, your film looks awesome, please keep me in mind for the role of JAKE – I think I’d be … Something as simple as addressing them by their name can go a … The email itself will act as the cover letter. Make connections. Anyone who has made a feature knows how hard it is to succeed and we tend to be brutally honest with each other and send warnings to each other on a regular basis. Researching casting needs, generating casting reports, and holding open calls and auditions are all typical work activities performed in this role. Short and sweet but something that acknowledges you know it’s not the normal course to take. I couldn’t resist contacting you directly. If you look at the screenshot below from breakdownexpress.com you’ll see that many of the roles for the film we’re currently in production on have gotten over 1,000 submissions – and one role has gotten over 3,000 submissions! Next time you audition or do mailings, you can remind that person of the work you have done since auditioning for the role. Cover Letter to a Casting Director Beverly Leech COVER LETTER TO A CASTING DIRECTOR Purpose: Seeking an Audition Date (3 blank lines) Name of the Casting Director Name of Casting Company or Show Address City, State, Zip Code (2-3 blank lines) Dear Mr. /Ms. Here’s an example of a bad one-line email you should never send a producer or casting director: “Hi, your film looks awesome, please keep me in mind for the role of JAKE – I think I’d be great.”, “Hey, congrats on your new production. For example, “To whom it may concern” is an evident and dead giveaway that this email is simply a draft that is recycled over and over to numerous casting directors. Jason has become a great friend and I am thrilled to hear you got a chance to work with him as well. 4. - Renew, refocus and refresh your acting. A casting director once told a group of us actors that when writing a cover letter, even a very simple message with a link to your work or website can be effective! I have been eager to contact casting directors but was not sure how to go about it and now I do! The Casting Director is first asked by a Director or Producer if they want to cast a film. Join Project Casting to access jobs you can apply for right now! I’m writing because I see you’re making another film and after reading the character breakdowns I think I’d be a good fit for Chuck. Your email should be short but it should be more than just one line. I know some of it is just people sucking up but if you can help it, don’t lie. A casting director once told a group of us actors that when writing a cover letter, even a very simple message with a link to your work or website can be effective! If you like what you've read sign up to the right. Sounds like you have the right attitude. Build your reel – stay in touch with people you’ve worked with! The actor/actress cover letter examples below can help you highlight your acting background, impress casting directors, and land you more auditions. It is essential to understand that everyone’s time is critical. Writing these emails takes time and you should really only be doing it for projects you really want to work on so if you have to make up a reason to get in touch with the filmmaker it’s probably not worth your time or theirs. Important career DOs and DON’Ts! If you read the synopsis and you have a personal life story where you can relate that’s something useful enough to mention. Make it easy for casting directors and talent agents to reach you for call back auditions and/or interviews. Write a short film for yourself and get some time on screen to see how you read on camera. But we all make mistakes. Casting Director 13th Street 4485-214-963 / [email protected] Dallas Bell Recruiter “Media Ltd” Dear Dallas, I am so excited to apply for a position of Casting Director at Media Ltd. That said, if you have a strong relationship with a casting director and believe you are right for a role, then it may be in your best interest to contact a casting directly by email, mail, or through your agent. Sending your marketing materials to a casting director when they are not casting anything is arguably pointless. The fact is, casting directors will call in who they know, and one way to become someone they know is by writing to them. WOOOWWW!!! Very helpful article!! I’ve been acting for over 10 years now and you can check me out on IMDB to see my credits. Get started today! I will take your advice/suggestions and email casting directors. Thank you again for your time. A friend of mine reposted one of your blog posts and I’ve recently been reading your daily posts about filmmaking. Looking for Disney, Game of Thrones, or Marvel movie casting calls? The idea is “what’s in it for me?” You have to explain why you’re a better or more suitable candidate than the other 3,000 people who have submitted for the role. Get started today! HOWEVER, sending a 'Follow-Up' can feel more professional and also level the playing field between you and the Casting Director. I found this article extremely helpful. 2. Find the latest movie casting calls, TV auditions, Modeling jobs, acting opportunities, acting tips, and entertainment news for the biggest movies and TV shows filming across the world. I’m sorry you haven’t found luck. Here is how to avoid some common mistakes. Back in the day it was the only way to be heard because there was no internet, there is so much taboo about this, some people say as an actor you should NEVER attempt this but then HOW on Earth are we supposed to move forward when we know no one, we’re not rich and influential and we are not American citizens, any way…wen’t a little over the board there haha, my apologies.