- Steve Carlson's book is the most comprehensive guide to the commercial business that I have ever read. It is a must for any actor planning a career in television commercials. Buy it now, before you come to see me. It will save us both a lot of time.
- Mark Measures, Abrams Artists Agency, Director, On-camera Commercials
The Commerical Actor's Guide offers advice honed from Carlson's nearly forty-year career in television and film: a career in which commercials have played a vital role. Whether you are trying to find work between film and TV gigs, make acting in television, industrial, or video ads your sole business, or discover your niche in a crowded acting market, Carlson will prove that commercials can allow you a very comfortable, stable lifestyle in a business known for its instability.
The Commercial Actor's Guide addresses the three most important aspects of working in commercials:
- auditioning-knowing your type, maintaining relationships with the right casting agents and directors, and presenting yourself in person
- on-camera performance-playing your part, whether you're the pitch person, the straight man or straight woman, or a supporting actor
- the business of commercials-getting an agent, organizing your show-business life, and finding time for yourself in a hectic industry.
