Modeling and acting are different arts, no doubt about it. But being different, they are similar in many ways, and the transition from modeling to acting is a well-established path for many performance artists. Mark Wahlberg famously modeled Calvin Klein underwear and Channing Tatum was a heartthrob in an Abercrombie ad before he became a Hollywood star. Charlize Theron and Monica Bellucci went on to become huge in the fashion industry before embarking on long and successful film careers. So, if it's possible to go from modeling to acting, how do you do it?

Educate Yourself

Reading blogs, acting books, and plays are a great way to start the transition to acting. The New York Film Academy blog and website has resources to help aspiring actors learn about the craft of acting and the steps they need to take to pursue an acting career. When you've educated yourself about the basics, and are really committed to becoming an actor, consider taking acting classes.

Go To Acting School

There is no substitute for the training you get during acting school. All actors should invest in acting classes, and models are no different because with education comes experience and confidence. Models have an advantage when it comes to becoming an actor because of their comfort in front of the camera. However, acting classes will teach important aspects of acting that models may not be familiar with.

The ability to analyze a script, break down a character, and make appropriate performance choices is the primary focus of acting classes, but there are many other advantages. Acting courses provide an invaluable opportunity to study with other aspiring actors, directors, and writers. Essentially, classes are the best way to learn about acting while building a network of friends in the entertainment industry.

Use Your Industry Connectio ns

Through modeling work models meet agents and other artists, many of whom can help in the transition from modeling to acting. In fact, many modeling agents represent actors or can help find agents who do. Other models and photographers may also work in film or commercials and seek advice on getting started as an actor. Point being, the model should be using her existing connections to help her start her acting career. After all, you're not the first person to make the transition to becoming an actor. Just ask Ashton Kutcher.

Understand The Challenge

Becoming a professional actor is never easy and the transition from modeling to acting will be full of challenges. A support network of fellow models and actors as well as a strong self-confidence will be needed to make the leap from photographs to moving pictures and stage plays. However, the model has the unique advantage of working in a similar industry with high expectations. Use your past experiences and look for acting classes to learn the ropes and help ensure that your transition from modeling to acting is the smoothest.

Build a foundation in acting for the screen and in front of a live audience with our 1-semester Acting to Film program. Hone your acting skills through a variety of core acting classes designed to teach students the nuances of acting in front of the camera. To learn more, visit the Acting page for our 1-Semester Film Schedule.

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