8 answers
Yanely
Student
1
Question
Asked
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How can I begin acting at my age (15)?
Hi, I'm a sophomore in highschool and I'm interested in acting and/or filmmaking, but I have no idea where to get started with either of those aspirations.
For a while now I've always been interested in playing characters, whether it'd be putting a little too much effort into reading out loud, or acting in school plays.
I'm not a stranger to writing either, I've been doing for a loooooong time. It's to the point my family, mainly my mom, are pushing me into a writing career or something in the same realm.
I'm in Theatre currently and next year I'll be in Digital media motion graphics, tv film and cinema production, and a dual enrollment class on writing and rhetoric. (I'll be busy to say the least...)
Any and every piece of advice is appreciated. Thank you and have a nice day or night
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8 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Okay, Yanely—first off, can I just say how on fire your schedule is? You’ve got theatre, film production, and advanced writing all lined up—serious main character energy right there. The fact that you’re already diving into both acting and filmmaking at 15 is a power move, and I am gonna hit you up with whatever I cna hope this helps out!
🎬 Step 1: Acting is like a muscle—the more you use it, the stronger it gets. Start Acting—Anywhere and Everywhere. You’re already doing theatre (major win!), but here are some ways to stretch your acting chops even more:
1. School Plays & Drama Club: Keep auditioning and performing in every play your school throws at you. Each role—big or small—teaches you something new.
2. Check out local theatres in your area. Many towns have youth programs, and it’s a great way to meet other passionate actors.
3. Connect with local college film programs or independent filmmakers who need actors for their short films. It’s real-world experience and looks amazing on a future resume. Student films and indie projects there are plenty.
4. Websites like Backstage, Casting Call Club, and even local Facebook groups post acting gigs (some are virtual, too!). Just check for online acting communities.
5. Don’t wait for someone to hand you a role—write your own scenes, monologues, or short films and perform them. TikTok and YouTube are goldmines for creative self-starters.
Step 2: Dive Into Filmmaking
Since you’re already signed up for media and production classes (seriously, you’re crushing it), you’ve got a head start! I will just give you something to sharpen those filmmaker instincts for now and for later.
1. Start Small, something I always tell my own students and friends: You don’t need a fancy camera—your phone is a mini film studio. Start making short films, skits, or vlogs. Experiment with shots, lighting, and editing.
2. Learn the Basics: YouTube is FILLED with free tutorials on cinematography, scriptwriting, and editing. Channels like Film Riot and Indy Mogul make it fun and easy to follow.
3. Team Up: Find like-minded classmates who want to act, write, or direct. Building a creative squad makes everything easier (and way more fun).
4. Film Festivals: Tons of student-friendly festivals exist where you can submit short films—great exposure and a way to see your work on the big screen!
5. Document the Journey: Share your process on social media. You never know who’s watching—lots of young filmmakers and actors get discovered this way.
Step 3: Use That Writing Superpower
The fact that you love writing gives you an insane advantage. Actors who can write their own material have infinite creative freedom—you’ll never wait for permission to tell stories. My sister is into the entertainment industry and she is already began writing her own scripts monologues so here is a few things you can start.
1. Write Monologues & Short Scripts: Perfect for practicing scenes and sharing on platforms like TikTok or Instagram Reels.
2. Storyboard Your Ideas: If you want to direct, start visualizing how you’d shoot your scripts—frame by frame.
3. Explore Screenwriting: Look up free screenwriting software like Celtx or WriterDuet and start playing around with writing your own movies.
📣 Step 4: You’ve got the talent and the drive—now let the world see it!
1. Capture your best performances and compile a highlight reel to show off your range.
2. Audition for Everything: From school plays to indie films—every audition teaches you something new (even the ones you don’t book!).
3. Talk to your teachers, attend workshops, and connect with people who share your ambitions. Relationships open doors in this industry. Try to feel and understand the different emotions and expressions.
4. Share your work online! Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have blown up young actors who started by posting original scenes. You will be putting yourself in front of the camera even you can do some live scenes to get used to being watched by audiences.
You’re already on an amazing path, and the fact that you’re this dedicated at 15? That’s the stuff future Oscar speeches are made of. Keep at it—Hollywood better watch out.
All the best you got this Yanely! 😉🥰
Don’t Wait for Permission: If you want to act or make films—just start. There’s no “perfect time.”
Embrace Mistakes: Every cringe moment is a step closer to greatness.
Watch movies, read scripts, and never stop asking, “How did they do that?” so stay curious!
🎬 Step 1: Acting is like a muscle—the more you use it, the stronger it gets. Start Acting—Anywhere and Everywhere. You’re already doing theatre (major win!), but here are some ways to stretch your acting chops even more:
1. School Plays & Drama Club: Keep auditioning and performing in every play your school throws at you. Each role—big or small—teaches you something new.
2. Check out local theatres in your area. Many towns have youth programs, and it’s a great way to meet other passionate actors.
3. Connect with local college film programs or independent filmmakers who need actors for their short films. It’s real-world experience and looks amazing on a future resume. Student films and indie projects there are plenty.
4. Websites like Backstage, Casting Call Club, and even local Facebook groups post acting gigs (some are virtual, too!). Just check for online acting communities.
5. Don’t wait for someone to hand you a role—write your own scenes, monologues, or short films and perform them. TikTok and YouTube are goldmines for creative self-starters.
Step 2: Dive Into Filmmaking
Since you’re already signed up for media and production classes (seriously, you’re crushing it), you’ve got a head start! I will just give you something to sharpen those filmmaker instincts for now and for later.
1. Start Small, something I always tell my own students and friends: You don’t need a fancy camera—your phone is a mini film studio. Start making short films, skits, or vlogs. Experiment with shots, lighting, and editing.
2. Learn the Basics: YouTube is FILLED with free tutorials on cinematography, scriptwriting, and editing. Channels like Film Riot and Indy Mogul make it fun and easy to follow.
3. Team Up: Find like-minded classmates who want to act, write, or direct. Building a creative squad makes everything easier (and way more fun).
4. Film Festivals: Tons of student-friendly festivals exist where you can submit short films—great exposure and a way to see your work on the big screen!
5. Document the Journey: Share your process on social media. You never know who’s watching—lots of young filmmakers and actors get discovered this way.
Step 3: Use That Writing Superpower
The fact that you love writing gives you an insane advantage. Actors who can write their own material have infinite creative freedom—you’ll never wait for permission to tell stories. My sister is into the entertainment industry and she is already began writing her own scripts monologues so here is a few things you can start.
1. Write Monologues & Short Scripts: Perfect for practicing scenes and sharing on platforms like TikTok or Instagram Reels.
2. Storyboard Your Ideas: If you want to direct, start visualizing how you’d shoot your scripts—frame by frame.
3. Explore Screenwriting: Look up free screenwriting software like Celtx or WriterDuet and start playing around with writing your own movies.
📣 Step 4: You’ve got the talent and the drive—now let the world see it!
1. Capture your best performances and compile a highlight reel to show off your range.
2. Audition for Everything: From school plays to indie films—every audition teaches you something new (even the ones you don’t book!).
3. Talk to your teachers, attend workshops, and connect with people who share your ambitions. Relationships open doors in this industry. Try to feel and understand the different emotions and expressions.
4. Share your work online! Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have blown up young actors who started by posting original scenes. You will be putting yourself in front of the camera even you can do some live scenes to get used to being watched by audiences.
You’re already on an amazing path, and the fact that you’re this dedicated at 15? That’s the stuff future Oscar speeches are made of. Keep at it—Hollywood better watch out.
All the best you got this Yanely! 😉🥰
Dr recommends the following next steps:
Jill Lucas
Screenwriter
5
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Jill’s Answer
To get your foot into the door of acting, consider taking a social approach:
- look for productions on social media. Many up and coming filmmakers promote their projects on Instagram, X, Facebook, etc.
- Similar to the advice above, check crowdfunding sites to see who is currently producing and looking to cast.
- Backstage is a great casting site to find a role that fits you.
Hope this helps!
- look for productions on social media. Many up and coming filmmakers promote their projects on Instagram, X, Facebook, etc.
- Similar to the advice above, check crowdfunding sites to see who is currently producing and looking to cast.
- Backstage is a great casting site to find a role that fits you.
Hope this helps!
Bright Komor
Nurse
260
Answers
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Updated
Bright’s Answer
At 15, you can start building your acting and filmmaking skills by utilizing school programs and community resources. To begin, explore school opportunities, such as joining a theater program or taking advantage of digital media classes. Participate in acting workshops and online courses to gain hands-on acting practice and constructive feedback. Record yourself using your phone to experiment with different characters and emotions, and collaborate with peers who share similar interests to write short scripts and film them together.
Learn your writing skills by creating your own material, which enhances storytelling abilities and gives you a deeper understanding of character development. Network and seek feedback from teachers, friends, or local theater groups to improve your skills. Attend local events like youth theater events, open mics, or film festivals to watch performances and audition.
Plan and balance your time by staying organized and involving your parents in finding opportunities and supporting transportation or equipment needs. Embrace the challenges and have fun with your acting and filmmaking journey. Every performance builds confidence and skills, so continue challenging yourself and having fun with it.
Learn your writing skills by creating your own material, which enhances storytelling abilities and gives you a deeper understanding of character development. Network and seek feedback from teachers, friends, or local theater groups to improve your skills. Attend local events like youth theater events, open mics, or film festivals to watch performances and audition.
Plan and balance your time by staying organized and involving your parents in finding opportunities and supporting transportation or equipment needs. Embrace the challenges and have fun with your acting and filmmaking journey. Every performance builds confidence and skills, so continue challenging yourself and having fun with it.
Mr. Trish
12
Answers
Updated
Mr.’s Answer
Focus on school plays, local theater, and student films. Practice acting techniques, write scripts, and learn basic filming and editing. Build a portfolio and network with others in the field.
Bright Komor
Nurse
260
Answers
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Updated
Bright’s Answer
At 15, you're an excellent age to start exploring acting and filmmaking. To get started, enroll in acting classes and workshops, participate in school productions, practice regularly, and create your own content. Record yourself performing monologues or scenes to get comfortable on camera, which is especially useful for filmmaking. Utilize your writing skills to create scripts or monologues, deepening your understanding of character development and storytelling. Build a portfolio by compiling a simple acting résumé and investing in a basic headshot. Network with your drama teacher, join local theater groups, and engage with online communities like r/acting on Reddit for constructive feedback. Balance your schedule with upcoming classes in Digital Media, motion graphics, TV film, and cinema production, ensuring specific times for acting practice, workshops, and personal projects without overwhelming yourself. By taking these steps, you'll build a solid foundation in acting and filmmaking while exploring your creative interests. Remember, every actor starts somewhere, and the key is to keep practicing and learning.
Thank you so much for the steps, I'm really grateful that you decided to answer my question. I'll be using your advice for sure! Thank you again!
Yanely
very much welcomed.
Bright Komor
Helena Y. Wu
Film director / producer
27
Answers
Pasadena, California
Updated
Helena Y.’s Answer
Yanely, it looks like you have put "acting" into the first place. Here are some of my thoughts.
I believe acting is really about "think" as the character, and "feel" as the character. There are two ways that can help:
1. Embrace life
Live your 15-year old life as you are. Live in that moment. Feel friendship, love, sorrow, anger, jealous whatever makes an authentic life. Feel all your emotions.
2. Get comfortable before audience or camera
Try activities that put you in front of large audience or a camera: dancing, singing, sports... Get used to people's gaze, or camera's eyes. Overtime, you will ignore their presence. This is important, as in future you need to act either on a stage or in a movie and be natural.
Actors are channels of emotions. What make them stand out is that they are able to feel and express all emotions in a natural way, under the gaze of the audience. And that needs a lot of practice.
Hope this helps. Enjoy your journey :)
I believe acting is really about "think" as the character, and "feel" as the character. There are two ways that can help:
1. Embrace life
Live your 15-year old life as you are. Live in that moment. Feel friendship, love, sorrow, anger, jealous whatever makes an authentic life. Feel all your emotions.
2. Get comfortable before audience or camera
Try activities that put you in front of large audience or a camera: dancing, singing, sports... Get used to people's gaze, or camera's eyes. Overtime, you will ignore their presence. This is important, as in future you need to act either on a stage or in a movie and be natural.
Actors are channels of emotions. What make them stand out is that they are able to feel and express all emotions in a natural way, under the gaze of the audience. And that needs a lot of practice.
Hope this helps. Enjoy your journey :)
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Yanely !
I am happy to advise young actors that need support and information about being a professional Actress or Actor. My path and experience was unique and looking back at my beginning I can see how much the steps I took made it work.
So, you are an actor right at this current time and you're in high school involved in theatre. Even if you're not getting paid to act, you're an actor and have the ability to perform, so it's great that you're receiving your training early on. You didn't say whether or not you want to go to college, which is advisable, rather I get the feeling you want to be available in a professional capacity once you graduate high school. That is a good plan. You would not be able to pursue it full time professionally until you graduate high school and are available 24/7 and it depends on if you plan to relocate to a city that offers a lot of work for actors. Based on what information you do provide, it seems as though you are already doing the beneficial things to prepare yourself for a future professional career. You need support, though, as everyone in any career path does. You'll need to come to terms with waiting until you graduate high school where you are being trained as an actor and about to learn mass media.
An acting career is not something to jump into. Keep aware of all your community theatre's casting, when they have auditions for your age range. Not every play casts teenagers, but at least you will be able to perform at school and ask the dual enrollment college theatre department is you have the liberty to audition for that college's plays. If you plan to enroll in college as a Theatre Major like I did, don't worry about rushing things. You may be surprised to see paid acting work on small projects come you way. It did happen for me.
Look at casting websites like Back Stage and Actors Access for roles in student films. You may not get paid but they give you the film for your reel and most provide lunch and or dinner. It's okay right now to do lots of unpaid work. Build that resume and take a variety of roles to discover your range.
Remember to not over-commit yourself. Strive for good grades in high school and the dual enrollment courses. Listen to the conversations around you and associate with as many theatre people as you can. Don't forget to attend all the plays in your community and go backstage to give feedback to the actors. That is a great way to network.
You will learn all of the techniques in school, but eventually you will have a friend that will become your mentor. Your mentor should be a friend that has been in acting for decades who has your best interest at heart and spends a good deal of time with you. Acting mentors are great sources of feedback, information and support.
So, I hope this is helpful and I wish you all the best. Take it step by step according to your circumstances and you will have a satisfying career !
I am happy to advise young actors that need support and information about being a professional Actress or Actor. My path and experience was unique and looking back at my beginning I can see how much the steps I took made it work.
So, you are an actor right at this current time and you're in high school involved in theatre. Even if you're not getting paid to act, you're an actor and have the ability to perform, so it's great that you're receiving your training early on. You didn't say whether or not you want to go to college, which is advisable, rather I get the feeling you want to be available in a professional capacity once you graduate high school. That is a good plan. You would not be able to pursue it full time professionally until you graduate high school and are available 24/7 and it depends on if you plan to relocate to a city that offers a lot of work for actors. Based on what information you do provide, it seems as though you are already doing the beneficial things to prepare yourself for a future professional career. You need support, though, as everyone in any career path does. You'll need to come to terms with waiting until you graduate high school where you are being trained as an actor and about to learn mass media.
An acting career is not something to jump into. Keep aware of all your community theatre's casting, when they have auditions for your age range. Not every play casts teenagers, but at least you will be able to perform at school and ask the dual enrollment college theatre department is you have the liberty to audition for that college's plays. If you plan to enroll in college as a Theatre Major like I did, don't worry about rushing things. You may be surprised to see paid acting work on small projects come you way. It did happen for me.
Look at casting websites like Back Stage and Actors Access for roles in student films. You may not get paid but they give you the film for your reel and most provide lunch and or dinner. It's okay right now to do lots of unpaid work. Build that resume and take a variety of roles to discover your range.
Remember to not over-commit yourself. Strive for good grades in high school and the dual enrollment courses. Listen to the conversations around you and associate with as many theatre people as you can. Don't forget to attend all the plays in your community and go backstage to give feedback to the actors. That is a great way to network.
You will learn all of the techniques in school, but eventually you will have a friend that will become your mentor. Your mentor should be a friend that has been in acting for decades who has your best interest at heart and spends a good deal of time with you. Acting mentors are great sources of feedback, information and support.
So, I hope this is helpful and I wish you all the best. Take it step by step according to your circumstances and you will have a satisfying career !
Thank you for the advice, I'm looking into the resources you've given me. Thank you again for taking the time out of your day.❤️
Yanely
Lana Lekarinou
Filmmaker
5
Answers
Clearwater, Florida
Updated
Lana’s Answer
You are a good writer indeed and that is the foundation for the field you are looking to potentially make your career. Good writing is the cornerstone because from it flows all else. You can write monologues to perform, for yourself and others. You can write screenplays and write yourself a part in it. You can help others with writing specific pieces to help them tell their story in a way that is unique to how they express themselves. You can create something and have others act in it.
Acting will also come in handy when it comes to casting. It helps when working with your actors and in rehearsals. It is good to be familiar with all aspects of production because ultimately the goal, for me, would be to write and produce your own work. You learn by doing, so if you want to act - act. Write short stories for you and your friends and family to partake in. See how that comes together for you. Develop your own style. Get comfortable with it and then move on to the next thing.
Volunteer your time as a PA (production assistant) on student films, this will provide you with valuable on-set (or on-stage) knowledge. It also is a good introduction as to who does what and what you are most drawn to. As a writer myself, I was drawn to writing and directing. But some people may be better at something else, like working with set-design or wardrobe, camera operators, lighting, etc.
Because I have a clear understanding about my vision and because I'm a good motivator, being a producer is something that also comes naturally for me. You will learn about yourself and your strong points by participating in, and taking part in productions and assisting others tell their stories.
I have read through the comments and there is some sound advice as to how to go about getting your foot into the industry - my advice would be more akin to discovering what you are most enthused about. I like telling stories about women who overcome great obstacles. Establish your style and work to refine it along your journey. Find your unique voice and use it to boldly proclaim to the world that you are a successful filmmaker.
And have faith because nothing worth achieving comes with ease. I happen to love Jesus, and in so doing get my strength, comfort and encouragement from Him. Stay strong in your family unit. Exercise caution and have solid core values so that you will not be easily swayed into dangerous territory. Have a cause tied into doing good for humanity. Be kind and of strong moral character so that others will respect you and be as eager to help you as you are to help them.
I believe God has given us each a variety of talents and that we are here to use them to uplift others and encourage them on their own journey. Be patient and always willing to learn and grow. Stay positive and remember that the gift of creativity is that you can be creative anywhere at any time, with others or on your own, you will always find fulfilment in everything you do.
Acting will also come in handy when it comes to casting. It helps when working with your actors and in rehearsals. It is good to be familiar with all aspects of production because ultimately the goal, for me, would be to write and produce your own work. You learn by doing, so if you want to act - act. Write short stories for you and your friends and family to partake in. See how that comes together for you. Develop your own style. Get comfortable with it and then move on to the next thing.
Volunteer your time as a PA (production assistant) on student films, this will provide you with valuable on-set (or on-stage) knowledge. It also is a good introduction as to who does what and what you are most drawn to. As a writer myself, I was drawn to writing and directing. But some people may be better at something else, like working with set-design or wardrobe, camera operators, lighting, etc.
Because I have a clear understanding about my vision and because I'm a good motivator, being a producer is something that also comes naturally for me. You will learn about yourself and your strong points by participating in, and taking part in productions and assisting others tell their stories.
I have read through the comments and there is some sound advice as to how to go about getting your foot into the industry - my advice would be more akin to discovering what you are most enthused about. I like telling stories about women who overcome great obstacles. Establish your style and work to refine it along your journey. Find your unique voice and use it to boldly proclaim to the world that you are a successful filmmaker.
And have faith because nothing worth achieving comes with ease. I happen to love Jesus, and in so doing get my strength, comfort and encouragement from Him. Stay strong in your family unit. Exercise caution and have solid core values so that you will not be easily swayed into dangerous territory. Have a cause tied into doing good for humanity. Be kind and of strong moral character so that others will respect you and be as eager to help you as you are to help them.
I believe God has given us each a variety of talents and that we are here to use them to uplift others and encourage them on their own journey. Be patient and always willing to learn and grow. Stay positive and remember that the gift of creativity is that you can be creative anywhere at any time, with others or on your own, you will always find fulfilment in everything you do.