How to Create a Website as an Actor?
A complete guide to building an actor’s website that showcases your talent, connects you with agents, and attracts casting directors.
(By Steven Abbott)
(Photo: Ketut Subiyanto | Pexels)
Why Every Actor Needs a Personal Website
Whether you’re just getting started in your acting career or you’ve been booking gigs for years, having a personal website is essential. It serves as your digital business card—something that casting directors, talent agents, and producers can view 24/7. Social media platforms may be popular, but a website gives you complete control over your image, content, and branding.
Example:
Consider actor Jasmine Lee, an emerging talent in Los Angeles. When she started auditioning, casting directors often asked if she had a reel or headshot link. She built a simple one-page site with her headshots, demo reel, and contact info. It landed her several callbacks simply because she looked prepared and professional.
Step 1: Choose the Right Domain Name
Your domain name should ideally be your professional name—easy to spell and remember. If your name is taken, try variations like adding “actor” or “official” to it.
Tips:
Use .com whenever possible.
Avoid dashes or numbers.
Keep it short and simple.
Example:
Actor Marcus Duvall found that marcusduvall.com was taken, so he went with marcusduvallactor.com—clear, memorable, and on-brand.
Step 2: Pick a Website Builder or Platform
You don’t need to know how to code to make a beautiful website. Platforms like these are popular among actors:
Wix: Drag-and-drop ease with acting-specific templates.
Squarespace: Sleek design and integrated portfolio features.
WordPress: Greater customization, better for bloggers or multi-purpose use.
Example:
Rachel Benton, a theatre actress in Chicago, used Squarespace to create a minimalist site. Her homepage includes a looping video from her performance in Hamlet, instantly showcasing her talent.
Step 3: Build Your Homepage
The homepage is your first impression. It should introduce who you are and provide a clear navigation menu.
What to include:
A high-quality headshot
A short, professional bio
Your current representation (agent/manager)
A call-to-action button (“Watch My Reel,” “Contact Me,” etc.)
Example:
Actor Luis Romero uses a full-screen photo on his homepage with the text: “NYC-based Actor | SAG-AFTRA | Fluent in English & Spanish” and a “Watch Reel” button.
Step 4: Add a Dedicated Resume Page
Your resume page should be up-to-date and easily downloadable. Use standard industry formatting. You can embed the resume directly and include a download link.
Tips:
Keep formatting clean.
Highlight recent, relevant work.
Include special skills: accents, languages, musical instruments.
Example:
Sarah Jennings, who specializes in voiceover, includes a downloadable PDF of her resume and an audio file of various dialects she can perform.
Step 5: Include a Photo Gallery
Your headshots are your branding tools. A gallery can show range, professionalism, and presence.
What to include:
Commercial and theatrical headshots
Behind-the-scenes shots (optional)
On-set or performance images
Example:
Actor Derrick Hughes splits his gallery into three categories: “Headshots,” “Stage Work,” and “Behind the Scenes,” each with high-res images.
Step 6: Add Your Demo Reel or Video Work
Your demo reel is critical. It’s often the first thing a casting director checks. Embed it on your homepage or a dedicated “Reel” page.
Tips:
Keep it under 2 minutes.
Start strong.
Use Vimeo or YouTube embeds for easy access.
Example:
Emily Tran, a comedic actress, features her demo reel at the top of her homepage. Below it, she offers individual scene clips so casting directors can see her versatility.
Step 7: Write a Compelling Bio
Your biography page tells your story. Keep it professional, concise, and personality-driven. Mention training, achievements, and what inspires you as an actor.
Example:
“Hi, I’m Jordan Wells. I’ve been performing since I was ten years old, appearing in productions from Shakespeare to indie horror films. I trained at Juilliard and love bringing vulnerable, complex characters to life.”
Step 8: Make It Easy to Contact You
Your website should include a contact form or clearly displayed email address and representation details. If you don’t have an agent, offer a simple form or professional Gmail address.
Example:
Tyler McMahon uses a form that asks for:
Name
Subject
Message
He also lists his talent manager’s phone number and email for inquiries.
Step 9: Optimize for Mobile and SEO
Your site should work on all devices. Most people will find you through their phone, so make sure text and images resize properly.
SEO (Search Engine Optimization) Tips:
Use keywords like “Los Angeles actor,” “SAG-AFTRA talent,” etc.
Add alt text to all images.
Include your name in meta titles and descriptions.
Example:
Natalie Franco optimized her Squarespace site with the phrase “NYC Actress | Voice Talent | SAG-AFTRA” so she appears on Google when people search for local talent.
Step 10: Keep It Updated
An outdated site can cost you roles. Update it regularly with:
New headshots
Recent credits
Reel updates
Press mentions or reviews
Example:
After booking a supporting role in a Hulu series, Dev Patel updated his website homepage to feature the show’s logo, a behind-the-scenes photo, and a link to his scene.
Bonus: Optional Extras to Enhance Your Website
Blog: Share behind-the-scenes experiences or audition tips.
Newsletter Sign-Up: Keep fans updated.
Press Kit: Include downloadable press photos and bios for media use.
Social Links: Connect your Instagram, TikTok, or IMDb.
Example:
Claire Morales includes a blog called “Actor Life,” where she writes short posts about balancing auditions with her day job. It brings authenticity and personality to her brand.
Conclusion: Your Website Is Your Digital Stage
As an actor, your website is more than just a portfolio—it’s your brand, business hub, and casting magnet. With the right design, content, and strategy, your site can open doors to auditions, agents, and roles you never thought possible.
Don’t wait for someone else to discover you. Build your stage. Shine your spotlight. Let your website speak for your talent.
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