Let’s hear the bad news first – The Hurdles

Acting and modelling both have to do with expressions and confidence. However, acting demands some additional diverse different types of talent than modelling. Understand these requirements first and evaluate if you have them in you before jumping in that direction.

Voice – A model rarely needs to use her vocal cord. But in acting this is most crucial. A voice decides what character you are playing. You must have a talent with voice modulation, pitch, voice acting (for example you need to be able to scream, cry, laugh, shout etc. while expressing each emotion distinctly even without visuals). Not to mention, you need to go through dubbing sessions in the sound studio and it is a very difficult task to deliver the same dialogues from the shoot in a dubbing studio while keeping the emotions intact while flawlessly syncing with the lip movements. Ask yourself, do you have that expressive voice and talent required to dub?

Glamour may not always be there – Although commercial Hindi films make heroines look like ramp goddesses but not everyone lands with a role opposite the top hero. Strong characters that may come your way may not always be glamorous. You need to prepare yourself to play a completely non-glamorous role, if required. Ask yourself, are you ready to take the challenge to play a white sari clad widow or deaf and dumb woman? Acting is acting, and if you shy away from playing challenging roles, this profession may not be suitable for you.

Memorising lines – Models don’t require to memorise page after page of dialogues. Depending on the kind of role you end up with, you might need to memorise a huge script. Don’t forget to keep this in mind!

Dancing – Although strictly not required but commercial films always prefer heroines who can dance. In India you won’t find a heroine who can’t dance. If you cannot, consider yourself moving to the backseat and playing the sister of the leading lady.

Handling Extremities – As models you might already be well acquainted with handling pressure. But acting might demand a very different kind of expertise. Starting from shooting at odd times to shooting in extreme weather and having a rigorous schedule, to shooting in real locations that may not even have a good hotel around – be prepared to handle all kinds of situations that may come your way.

Having said these, always remember: having a few flaws or problem areas does not mean you are out of the game. Everyone has strengths and weaknesses. Focus on your strengths while working on your weaknesses. That is how you grow.

Now the Good News

Is it still possible to shift into acting? The answer is – YES! Talent is definitely required, but if you have it, many incompetencies that you might have can well be taken care of. What is important is that you should have the talent in you. For example, you must have a strong and expressive voice although you may not know much about voice modulation or dialogue delivery, because the later can be learnt under good guidance, but if you have a squeaky, flat and shaky voice, no amount of training can help. Give the hurdles a good deal of thought, and if you feel a good teacher is all you need to improve your skills, move on to the colourful world of acting.

Most important things to keep in mind before taking the plunge

Models, chances are there to make the transition from modelling to acting, and if after due consideration you are now sure of your talent and interest in the sector, the only question that arises now is – how to do it? For your benefits, consider the below discussed points:

Acting classes – You need to join acting classes because this is entirely a new profession for you and experts’ guidance is indispensable. Do your research and enrol in the best training course possible. There’s no point in doing an acting course from a small town. Remember: the bigger the place, the better your chances.

Take help of your modelling agents or the connections in the industry. Making contacts is essential in both modeling and acting professions.

Understand challenges – Challenges are there in every profession and you have to face them boldly. Use your experiences, which you have gained in modeling and also, make use of the lessons you have learned about acting in your acting classes to make sure that your journey of transition becomes easier. The points discussed in the ‘hurdles’ section are true, but remember, everyone has some shortcoming or the other. There’s no shame in acknowledging you lack in something, if you are ready to work for it and makeup.
Know yourself and your potentiality –  It is very important to know who you are and what that means in terms of the roles you can audition for. You have to know your strengths and weaknesses so that you can land up with that perfect role.

Visit shooting studios and agencies – As with modelling, you need to submit your portfolio to different agencies who will then call you for auditions. It always helps if you have a video show reel to show. It does not have to be posh. You can easily create a reel that showcases your expertise in acting. Also, visiting studios and directly handing out some of your best profile pictures to directors and producers can help too.

Be prepared for the struggle – The initial years in the industry can be really tough. So, you need to work hard with full dedication and sincerity. You have to have patience and perseverance. Continue with your modelling assignments because you’ll need the money and recognition.

Humility comes first – If you want to be successful, be a good human being first. Before winning hearts with your acting skills, you have to win hearts as a true human being. No one likes arrogant, bossy, self-centred persons. If you are friendly, positive and down to earth, you have a better chance of landing up a role simply because of the ease of working with you.

Value time more than money – You have to be punctual as well as professional. Keep your commitments and value your and others’ time. Do not keep people waiting. If sometimes this does happen, do apologise for wasting the other person’s time. If necessary arrive early and spend sometime in a nearby coffee shop rather than taking the risk of being late.

Keep trying but don’t be desperate – Facing downfall is very common in this profession. At any point of time in your career, if you realise that you are not comfortable with what you are doing, you can always come back to modelling or pursue any other profession you like. Never force anything on yourself. In both these professions, there are certain limitations. Be warm enough to accept failure as you accept success. Desperation will draw negative people and experiences which might leave you mentally depressed. Always remember, being a celebrity is not everything in life. You need to keep a backup career option ready for your own good.

Models, keep these things in mind when you are taking a leap from modelling to acting. Prepare yourself accordingly and try to extend your limits as much as possible. There will be lots of opportunities your way, you just have to know how to utilise them to the fullest.

Courtesy: www.modelsmust.com