Have photos of yourself taken to submit to agents. You will need a clear one of you smiling at the camera for commercial submissions, and a serious one for dramatic roles. Professional photographers can be found in your local phone book, or have your parents or friends snap some that are as crisp and professional-looking as possible. Visit casting websites for samples and ideas.
Submit your headshot to licensed agents in your city or the closest major city. Choose agents who are licensed with the Screen Actors Guild, the union for professional screen actors and actresses. Include an acting resume that features any training, theater, or special skills you have, and a contact number and name of your parent or guardian.
Purchase a book of monologues for your age group and work on memorizing one comedic and one dramatic one. Focus on who the character is, what they want at the moment the monologue occurs, what actions they are taking to achieve their goal, and the obstacles that stand in their way. Enroll in a local on-camera acting class, or use an inexpensive camcorder to improve your on-camera acting skills by having a friend or family member record you practicing monologues, scenes, and commercials.
Use your monologues to audition for agents and local theater productions. An agent's job is to submit you to projects and casting directors. When you sign a contract with an agent he will take 10 percent of your pay, which means he really only does 10 percent of the work. Finding auditions is your responsibility as well. Living close to Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, or Orlando is ideal since these are the cities that will have the most auditions. If you are not near one of these hubs, take advantage of every opportunity to perform in community theater and school plays.
Work as an extra (also known as a Background Actor) whenever the opportunity arises. This is an excellent way to get a crash course in set etiquette. Read entertainment industry trade papers such as Backstage/Backstage West, The Hollywood Reporter and Variety to stay on top of industry projects and developments. Also, visit your state government's production and entertainment permit licensing website for details on what films or television shows will be shooting in your state. Mail your headshot, resume, and contact information to the listed producers or casting directors along with a cover letter stating your interests in the project.