Jennifer Pollock: Actor in White Plains, New York.

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I recently had a casting call looking for a teenage girl and her older step mom for an independent movie I was producing and directing. As I live in the middle of California I went through three different casting websites, one from SF, one from LA and the other one "National". I was shocked when I saw that roughly 80% of the actors, SAG and non-SAG did not have any video reels showing their work. It told me that if they were not even professional enough to create a reel or even a clip on themselves, then I wouldn't waste my time contacting them. Years ago when I was an actor and before good video was around, it was difficult for actors to get film on themselves because they hadn't been cast in anything yet or doing their own scenes on film with rented cameras was cost prohibited. The smart ones went to college film departments and volunteered their time for student films. Actors, today there is no excuse for not having a reel showing your work! That tells me you are lazy and unprofessional. Everyone has a video camera/phone. I have seen 20 minute movies shot on I-phones which looked great on my computer monitor. Professional sound is not important. Music is not necessary and the editing doesn't even have to be good. The scene you do must however have another person in it so that you may react to them. Monologues are a waste of time. Directors are mainly looking for what you do with your face and body when you are not speaking. The speaking part is easy. Copy a scene from a movie or TV show that has a character similar to yours. Then go out and have your mom or roommate shoot it. Two or three short scenes showing your range are best. If you have little or no range, just one good scene. The camera used is not important. HD is great if you have it available. Lighting must show your eyes. If you don't have good lights shoot it during the day in the shade. Beware of people who want to charge you a lot for professional cameras and pro lighting. If you don't have a good scene (with another actor) that challenges your acting ability and one that you do well, then the best camera gear in the world will not convince someone to hire you. Hope this helps--

Jennifer Pollock - Brandy Cooper

Jennifer as Brandy Cooper balancing life as detective, wife & mom

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Jennifer Pollock - Ellie

Ellie invites Luke in for a nightcap but ends up in an awkward and uncomfortable conversation about what rumors his friends may have shared with him about her

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Jennifer Pollock - Party Guest

Conversation with a friend at their party

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Martin Johnston

11 years ago

I don't know if it s different in the US but here in the UK demo/show/acting reels should last no more than 3-4 minutes. Anything longer doesn't serve you too well. Have the most recent at the front a...

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Michael Savage Aka Sirtony Member Of Marquis Who's Who In America

As an Award Winning pioneer filmmaker and creator of 3 Day Demo...a service that Creates a Career of films with you starring in them...correct ...just go to the site ...and see the Historic work... it...

Steve James

4 years ago

As an actor, you should take every opportunity to share your video reel : https://youtu.be/uOrN8gcu_qI (Coudnt resist!).

Jennifer Pollock

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1 person likes this
- Joe E. Ironstand
11 years ago

Hi Joe, Thanks so much for the connection. I'll def. check out the film, thanks. I am always looking for new interesting and exciting projects and opportunities. If such an opportunity arises that you...

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1 person likes this
- Spike Thurbon
11 years ago

Hi Spike, Thanks so much for the connection. I am always looking for new interesting and exciting projects and opportunities. If such an opportunity arises that you are privy too, please contact me an...

1
1 person likes this
- Jo Hannah Afton
11 years ago

That's great! I was just up in Yorktown last week (At Yorktown Stage) I am always looking for new interesting and exciting projects and opportunities. If such an opportunity arises that you are privy...

Jo Hannah Afton

Will do :)

Thanks so much for the connection Lauran! I am always looking for new interesting and exciting projects and opportunities. If such an opportunity arises that you are privy too, please contact me and t...

Lauran Childs

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- Jennifer Pollock
11 years ago

Thanks Jennifer, will do!

Nice to meet you as well Juan. I am always looking for new interesting and exciting projects and opportunities. If such an opportunity arises that you are privy too, please contact me and thanks again...

Juan Herrón González

Thanks Jennifer. Regards.

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1 person likes this
- Sarah Walker
11 years ago

Hi Sarah, Thanks so much for the connection! I am always looking for new interesting and exciting projects and opportunities. If such an opportunity arises that you are privy too, please contact me an...