Time and time again we see people, mainly ladies, coming on here with photos that don't accurately represent them or more importantly, what they could get called in for in regards to auditions. Here are some quick guidelines. This is directed at females mostly but I know a few guys on here that could benefit from this as well.

Ladies- if you look at LEAST 25 (be honest with yourself) and are not utterly rake thin and quite hot, do not get "pretty" type headshots in skimpy tops, shorts, sexy poses taken. It is a waste of time as you won't get called in for those parts. These days, the leading ladies are younger, hotter and skinnier than ever. Megan Fox, Jessica Alba- the enitire cast of the new "90210"- need I say more? The only exception would be, as usual, if you are SUPER hot, like Angelina Jolie. Otherwise, embrace being older and get shots that reflect what you could play. Maybe an attorney, young mom, best friend, tough chick, cop roles etc. Put the boobs away and get out a suit instead.

If you are quirky looking, as in a little too tall, too heavy, have a gummy smile or some such, a character actor is what you are and that is a blessing as they work so much and get the best roles often- the really meaty ones.
Get out your bright colors, some glasses and let your personality shine through.

Remember, this is about getting you WORKING. This is not the time to say, "Well, I think I AM hot and everyone I know does, and back in Arkansas I was Homecoming Queen and blah blah blah". This is NOT your hometown- this is HOLLYWOOD.

They are not your pals or workmates- they are brutal, picky and fiercely demanding. Why? Because they can be.

EVERYONE wants this. There are professional models going for these same parts. Think about it.

You can try to break rules and make your mark later, after you've established yourself and are working consistently in the business. Many actresses have done that over the years- Christina Ricci, for example. She fought for her role in "Black Snake Moan" as they refused to see her as sexy. Maybe you could even fund your own indie films and play whatever part you want.

But that can come later. Be realistic in the meantime as people like Ms Ricci have decades of experience under their belt and people to fight for them- you don't.

You need to get work. How? By KNOWING YOUR CASTING. If you don't fully acknowledge who you are and what you can play, embrace it and focus on that, you'll be making an already nearly impossible business that much more so.

Godspeed.

thank you, miss stone! kudos to you!!

Great post, miss stone. Thank you!