Save Money and Get More From Your Career

In these rough economic times, many of us are looking for ways to cut corners. Headshots, reproductions, costumes, websites and reels can be hugely expensive, but are necessary tools for actors. We spend thousands of dollars a year on these items and while they may be nice write-offs at tax time, they can be large burdens during slim financial times. Here are some tips for stretching your dollar (or not spending any money!) on the things you must have for your career:

Headshots: Post an ad at a local photography class or school advertising your "modeling" services. Advertise that you are an actor looking for shots in exchange for use in portfolios. Many photographers start out looking for free models in exchange for photos and you can take advantage of this. If you're worried about quality, bring samples of headshots that you like and have the photographer mirror the looks as best as possible. Come with tons of ideas and locations so you make sure to get a product you can use. If the pictures are horrible, at least you've lost nothing!

Barter your services: Do you have any CDs or DVDs sitting around? What about computer software or an external hard drive? An editor may trade you reel editing services in exchange for your eqiupment. If you don't have any material items to offer, how about your acting services? You could perform at a corporate get-together, bartend at the editing company's holiday party or give the editor's kids acting lessons in exchange for your reel. Be creative!

Reproductions: Order lithographs, they are much cheaper than photo reproductions and they are much sturdier as well, since they are printed on card stock instead of photo paper. Glossy finish is better than matte. Shop around among web suppliers if you can't find a great deal in your town. www.isgophoto.com is the service I use and you can save even more by skipping proofs and setting up your name yourself in the online kiosk on this site (save $30!).

Cut back: Order 25 headshots instead of 100. Order 1 reel instead of 25 and get a friend with iDVD to duplicate it for you with their computer and the DVDs you buy yourself from Office Depot. When you have an audition, go run all your errands right after so you have less trips to make during the week and you can save on gas. Offer to help a friend run lines for an audition in exchange for dinner. Shop at thrift stores for costumes and sell your old clothes at consignment shops. Above all else, put yourself on a budget but don't stop working every day toward your goals!