How to Find Casting Calls Online Without an Agent (Even as a Beginner)

doors for you. Agents traditionally played the role of gatekeepers, pitching talent to casting directors and securing auditions. But in the digital age, you no longer need an agent to find legit casting calls or book real acting gigs.

In fact, thousands of working actors, content creators, and voiceover artists have launched their careers online—all without representation. With the right tools, strategy, and awareness, you can too.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything from where to find trusted casting calls online to how to build a professional presence that stands out—even if you're just getting started.

Part 1: What Are Casting Calls?

A casting call is a notice put out by a casting director, production company, or brand, inviting talent to audition for a specific project. These projects can range widely in type, scope, and compensation. You might find casting calls for:

• Feature films
  
• Short films
  
• Television shows
  
• Commercials
  
• Online ads and social media campaigns
  
• Voiceover gigs
  
• Theater productions
  
• User-generated content (UGC) for brands
  

Each listing typically outlines what kind of talent is being sought (age, gender, ethnicity, etc.), the role’s description, pay (if any), shooting dates, location, and how to audition (in-person or self-tape).

In the past, casting calls were primarily accessed through agents or industry connections. But today, digital platforms have opened up a much broader opportunity for aspiring actors to access casting calls directly, many of which are beginner-friendly and don’t require representation.

Understanding how casting works is crucial because not every opportunity is created equal. Some are union jobs with high pay and strict eligibility. Others are indie or non-union gigs open to anyone willing to apply and show up professionally. For beginners, the latter is often the best place to start building experience, connections, and confidence.

Part 2: Where to Find Legit Casting Calls Online

Finding casting calls is easy. Finding the right ones—the ones that are legitimate, suited to your skill level, and worth your time—is the real challenge. Here are some of the most reliable and beginner-friendly online casting platforms.

ActorSupply.com

ActorSupply is an up-and-coming platform that focuses on providing real casting opportunities for actors, voice talent, and creators. It’s especially great for beginners because of its user-friendly layout, transparent listings, and opportunities across commercial, social media, UGC, and voiceover categories. The platform allows you to create a portfolio, search for roles, and submit self-tapes—all from your dashboard.

What makes ActorSupply unique is its blend of traditional casting calls (film, commercial, voiceover) with modern content creator gigs. If you're just getting started or trying to build a portfolio with a range of work, it's a perfect match.

Backstage

Backstage has long been a staple in the acting world. It lists thousands of casting calls for theater, film, TV, and branded content. It’s known for having vetted listings and tools to help actors stay organized with applications and deadlines. Backstage does require a subscription, but for serious beginners ready to audition frequently, it can be worth the investment.

AllCasting

AllCasting is another platform aimed at new talent, offering a broad mix of projects, including modeling, reality TV, and local commercials. It’s less curated than Backstage, but there are still plenty of valid opportunities for those just entering the field. Be sure to do your research before submitting, especially if listings feel vague.

Voices.com (for Voiceover Work)

Voiceover work is one of the most accessible paths into the performance industry. Voices.com connects talent with brands, authors, game developers, and production companies looking for voiceover services. Whether you’re narrating an audiobook or voicing a YouTube ad, this platform can be an excellent place to begin. It also offers a free tier, with paid plans unlocking more features and opportunities.

Casting Networks and Casting Frontier

These are more advanced platforms often used for commercial and union gigs. They’re worth exploring once you have a few credits or reel clips, but beginners can still apply to entry-level roles found here.

Part 3: How to Avoid Casting Call Scams

Unfortunately, where opportunity exists, so do scams. Many aspiring actors have been burned by illegitimate listings or shady “agents” promising fame in exchange for money. The good news is that with a bit of awareness, you can protect yourself.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Upfront payment required to access scripts or audition
  
• Recruiters contacting you via Instagram DM or WhatsApp
  
• No details about the project or client—just vague promises
  
• Requests for personal information like ID numbers or bank details
  
• Too-good-to-be-true pay for zero experience required

If someone is offering you $5,000 for a commercial and you don’t need to audition, that’s likely a scam.

Green Flags That Signal Legitimacy

• Clear, detailed project descriptions
  
• Credible production company names
  
• Payment terms outlined upfront
  
• No pressure to pay or “lock in” your spot
  
• Contact info that can be verified
  

Stick to reputable platforms like ActorSupply and do a quick Google search on any company or producer before you apply. When in doubt, trust your gut.

Part 4: What You Need to Apply (Even If You’re New)

One of the biggest myths in acting is that you need a long résumé or agency representation to land work. What casting directors actually want is clarity, confidence, and professionalism. Here’s how to present yourself—even as a beginner.

A Strong Actor Profile

Your online profile is your storefront. It should include:

• A professional headshot taken in natural light
  
• A clear, concise bio (2–3 sentences about who you are and what you bring to the table)
  
• Your location and contact info
  
• Any relevant experience (even school projects or self-made content count)
  
• A link to your reel or intro video
  

You don’t need a fancy website to start—just a clean profile that looks intentional and trustworthy.

A Simple Introduction Video

For many roles—especially UGC, commercial, or social content—casting teams want to see your energy and personality on camera. Film a 30-second intro video where you:

• Say your name and location
  
• Share what you enjoy doing or creating
  
• Show natural energy, clarity, and confidence
  

This is less about acting and more about relatability. Think of it as your digital handshake.

A Self-Tape Setup

Most online casting calls require self-tapes. Here's what you need:

• A quiet, well-lit space with a clean background
  
• A smartphone or camera mounted at eye level
  
• A script (or slate) read clearly and authentically
  
• No distracting clothing, backgrounds, or noise
  

If you follow the instructions, deliver on time, and show personality, you’re already ahead of most applicants.

Part 5: How to Get Discovered Without an Agent

The key to booking work without an agent is consistency and professionalism. You don’t need Hollywood connections—you need a system. With the right approach, you can build a steady stream of auditions, callbacks, and bookings, even from your bedroom.

Be Consistent

Treat casting like a numbers game. Most roles receive dozens—if not hundreds—of applications. That means you need to submit frequently and reliably. Set a goal to apply to at least 5–10 roles a week, filtering for those that truly align with your type and skill set.

Use Multiple Platforms

Don’t limit yourself to one casting site. Cross-post your profile on trusted platforms like ActorSupply, Backstage, and AllCasting. This increases your exposure and keeps you informed about new opportunities across multiple media types.

Build Social Proof

Many brands and indie productions scout talent on social media. That doesn’t mean you need 100K followers—it means creating content that shows your personality, versatility, and professionalism. Short-form video apps like TikTok and Instagram Reels are especially helpful for creators looking to attract campaign work or UGC roles.

Stay Reliable

Always show up when you say you will. Respond quickly to casting messages. Submit materials in the format requested. Be polite, prepared and punctual. These simple habits set you apart more than you might realize. Many casting directors will choose someone reliable over someone “perfect” for the role. In fact, being known as easy to work with is often how actors get rehired again and again.

Part 6: What Kinds of Roles Are Beginner-Friendly?

When you're just starting out, it's important to look for roles that match your level of experience but still allow you to build your portfolio and develop your craft. Not every opportunity will be a fit, but here are several categories that are typically accessible to new talent:

User-Generated Content (UGC)

Brands are constantly looking for real people to create authentic content featuring their products. You don’t need acting experience or a big following—just good on-camera presence and the ability to follow a brief. This is one of the fastest-growing areas for new talent.

Commercials

Many regional and digital commercials are open to newcomers. Brands often cast fresh faces to represent their products. You’ll often find these roles listed with simple slates or short scenes required for auditions.

Voiceover Gigs

From podcast intros to explainer videos to audiobooks, voice acting is a great starting point—especially if you have a quiet space and a basic mic. Platforms like Voices.com or even beginner-friendly gigs on ActorSupply can help you get your foot in the door.

Indie Films and Student Projects

Smaller-budget productions and student films are usually open to casting new talent. These projects often value enthusiasm, availability, and a good attitude just as much as experience.

Social Media Campaigns

Many brands run casting calls for TikTok or Instagram campaigns, especially for relatable, real-life creators. These types of gigs are less formal, often paid, and provide excellent content for your portfolio.

Don’t worry about jumping into a major film role right away. Focus on what builds momentum, gives you experience, and helps you get comfortable in front of the camera.

Part 7: How to Grow From Beginner to Booked Talent

Once you've booked a few roles, it's time to upgrade your presence and take more control of your career. Here's how you can make the most of your early wins:

Update Your Profile

Add every credit, testimonial, or clip from completed work. List the brands or projects you’ve worked with and what kind of roles you played. Even just a few lines can go a long way in showing progression and credibility.

Create a Demo Reel

Don’t overthink this. Even a short reel—30 to 60 seconds—is enough to show casting directors what you can do. Stitch together clips of previous projects, self-tapes, or UGC content that highlights your energy, tone, and versatility.

Ask for Referrals and Reviews

Did a brand or director love working with you? Ask if they’d be willing to refer you to others, or write a short testimonial you can use in your profile. Word-of-mouth is powerful in creative industries.

Build a Simple Website or Linktree

You don’t need to hire a developer. A basic site or portfolio page can serve as a central place to host your headshots, reel, contact info, and casting profiles. You can also link to social media or content samples.

Continue Learning

Take workshops, join online acting classes, or participate in local theater if possible. The more you build your craft, the more opportunities will open up—and you’ll be better prepared when they come.

Conclusion: You Don’t Need an Agent—You Need a Plan

The idea that you must have an agent to book work is outdated. While agents can be helpful down the road, they’re not the starting point—they’re a milestone. Today, you have everything you need to launch your acting or creator career from home, with nothing but a smartphone, some discipline, and a solid plan.

The key is to start small, stay consistent, and treat every gig—no matter how minor—as a step forward. The more you show up, the more you learn what works. The more you learn, the more confident and castable you become.

Whether you're auditioning for a commercial, recording voiceover samples in your bedroom, or filming UGC content for a skincare brand, every step adds up. And you don’t need to wait for an agent to tell you when to take that step.

Call to Action: Start Booking Without the Middleman

If you're ready to stop waiting and start booking, now’s the time. ActorSupply was built for creators, actors, and voice talent just like you—no agents, no gatekeepers, just real casting calls and real opportunities.

👉 Create your free profile on ActorSupply.com and start applying to roles today. Whether you're brand new or just looking to grow, we’ve got roles, tools, and support to help you thrive.

You’ve got talent. Let’s make sure the world sees it.