How to Get an Acting Agent
So you’ve invested in great headshots — congratulations, that’s the step most actors rush. Now comes the question I hear constantly: how to get an acting agent. Landing representation isn’t luck; it’s a process. I’m Joshua Shelton, owner and lead photographer at Headshots LA, and I’ve photographed thousands of actors at every stage of their careers. Here’s the honest, step-by-step rundown of how to get an acting agent — and how to make sure you’re ready before you submit.
What Does an Acting Agent Actually Do?
An acting agent submits you for roles, negotiates your contracts, and opens doors to casting directors you can’t reach on your own. In exchange they take a standard commission — usually 10% for SAG-AFTRA–franchised agents. A good agent is a partner in your career, not someone who charges you upfront fees (more on that red flag below).
Before You Submit: What You Need First
- Professional headshots — ideally both a commercial and theatrical look (here’s the difference between commercial vs theatrical headshots).
- An acting resume — training, credits, and special skills, cleanly formatted.
- A demo reel — even one short, well-edited clip beats none.
- Training — classes, a coach, or a degree signal you’re serious.
Not sure your materials are agent-ready? Start with my ultimate guide to actor headshots and my what to wear for headshots guide.
How to Get an Acting Agent, Step by Step
- Nail your headshots first. Agents judge you in seconds, and a dated or amateur photo gets you passed over. Get professional headshots that capture your type.
- Build your resume and reel. Keep the resume to one page and the reel tight — lead with your strongest footage.
- Research reputable agencies. Focus on legitimate, franchised agents and skip anyone who asks for money upfront.
- Get referrals and visibility. Classes, showcases, student films, and referrals from working actors get your submission actually opened.
- Submit a targeted, professional package. Personalize each submission and follow the agency’s exact instructions to the letter.
- Prepare for the meeting or audition. Have a monologue or sides ready, and be able to describe your type in one sentence.
- Evaluate the offer carefully. A legitimate agent never charges upfront — read the agreement fully before you sign.
Where to Actually Find Acting Agents
Knowing the steps is one thing; knowing where to look is another. Here are the resources working actors actually use to find legitimate representation:
- The SAG-AFTRA franchised agents list. This is the gold standard — agents who’ve agreed to abide by the union’s rules and performer protections. Search the official SAG-AFTRA franchised agent list by region, and check out my own list of SAG agencies right here on the blog to get started fast.
- Industry casting platforms. Build profiles on Actors Access, Casting Networks, and IMDbPro — many agents scout talent and accept submissions through them.
- Referrals from your network. Most actors find their agent through other performers. Ask classmates, scene partners, and acting coaches who represents them and whether they’ll refer you.
- Showcases and agent nights. Get into a play, showcase, or industry seminar and invite your target agents. Seeing you perform live is far more persuasive than a cold email.
- Reputable acting classes. Established studios often have agent relationships and host industry-night showcases that lead to representation.
Pro tip: Always confirm an agent is SAG-AFTRA franchised, and never pay upfront fees. When in doubt, verify representation through the SAG-AFTRA Professional Representatives Department before you sign anything.
What Acting Agents Look For
Agents want a clear, marketable type; professional materials (starting with your headshots); real training and credits; reliability and coachability; and an authentic sense of who you are on camera. The easier you make it for them to picture exactly where to send you, the better your odds.
Red Flags to Avoid
- Upfront fees, “registration” charges, or a required (paid) in-house photographer or class.
- High-pressure tactics to sign immediately.
- No verifiable client list or industry franchise.
- Guarantees of work — no legitimate agent guarantees roles.
It All Starts With Your Headshots
Here’s the thing: every step above hinges on the first impression your headshots make. Before an agent reads your resume, they look at your photo. Make it count with a commercial and theatrical look that nails your type. Ready? Book your session online or call me at (213) 986-6886.
How to Get an Acting Agent: FAQ
Do I need headshots before getting an acting agent?
Yes. Professional headshots are the first thing an agent looks at, so they should be ready before you submit — ideally a commercial and a theatrical look.
How do actors get an agent with no experience?
Build a foundation first: strong headshots, training/classes, a short reel, and any credits from student films or theater. Then submit to agencies open to new talent and seek referrals.
Should I pay an acting agent upfront?
No. Legitimate agents earn a commission (typically around 10%) only when you book work. Anyone demanding upfront fees is a red flag.
How long does it take to get an acting agent?
It varies widely — from weeks to many months. Consistent, targeted submissions plus strong materials and training shorten the timeline.
Do I need both commercial and theatrical headshots for agents?
Most actors benefit from both, since agents submit you for different kinds of roles. See the commercial vs theatrical headshots breakdown.
Where can I find a list of SAG agencies?
You can search the official SAG-AFTRA franchised agent list by region, or start with my own list of SAG agencies on the blog.
Ready for Agent-Worthy Headshots?
Now you know how to get an acting agent — so let’s make sure your headshots open the door. Book your session online or call me at (213) 986-6886, and we’ll create headshots that get you noticed.
