By: Kristina Anderson, Barbizon International

YouTube is an everyday staple in today’s plugged in and online world. From comedians and vloggers to singers and everything in between, YouTube is THE video platform that has taken over online media. As an actor, YouTube can be a great resource to practice your craft and build your personal brand.

Study
YouTube is home to many different instructional and insightful videos on many different topics, and this includes acting. You can find videos for tips from professional actors and industry professionals. YouTube is a great resource to see what advice others have to offer, just be sure you use common sense when deciding if a source is credible. Another great benefit of watching YouTube is the ability to study other actors. You can find videos of rehearsals, live theater shows, audition reels and other opportunities for studying actors you like as well as actors you don’t like and learning how you can be better by watching them.

Reels
If you have a demo reel, YouTube is a great place to house it so that you can make sure no matter what type of computer directors / producers are using, they will be able to access your file without technical issues. You even have the option through YouTube to save a video privately so that only someone with a direct link (which you will have to share) will be able to access your reel if you would prefer to keep it private.

Roles
With the popularity of online video media, directors and writers alike are turning to YouTube as a way to release shorts and independent projects so they are available for the masses. Auditioning for roles on YouTube webisodes is a great way to gain experience, new credits and get your name out there. Many creative individuals have created their own YouTube channels that have ended up being the doorway bigger opportunities. One example is Darren Criss, who wrote music/lyrics for and starred in A Very Potter Musical, a theater performance that went viral with millions of views after being uploaded to YouTube. Darren has since co-founded StarKid Productions, acted on Broadway and had a recurring role on the hit show GLEE.

Promotion
YouTube videos are a great way to promote projects you are working on. Behind the scenes videos you shoot with your phone (with permission to do so, of course) can help to create buzz for projects you are working on. It’s a great way to build a brand online for your project as well as yourself as an actor.

Are you ready to start your acting career? Schedule an audition with your local Barbizon school.