Ontario Casting Director Shares 3 Tips To Make BIG Money By Being In Toronto Commercials

If you're looking to make some extra cash and shine in the limelight, one Ontario casting director is giving you tips on how to do so. 

When it comes to starring in commercials, a lot of agencies are looking for "real people" and often, you may just fit the bill. 

According to Stephen Milo, casting director at Milo Casting, there are plenty of opportunities for people in Toronto if you're looking to book a few gigs. 

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Find the casting companies in your area and be on time. 

"When looking for 'real people', casting directors post notices detailing the type of people/groups/duos/families we are seeking through our social media channels, and these postings go out multiple times per week," Milo told Narcity.

To get your foot in the door, the casting director advises people research what casting companies are in their area and make a habit of checking social media daily.

"The reason I stress checking the casting company's social channels daily is due to the lightning pace of the casting industry. Real people research projects have very tight turnaround times so it is very easy to miss out," he added.

In order to land the gig, Milo advises being on time when it comes to your submission. 

Don't underestimate yourself or be afraid to have fun.

You don't have to be an actor or real model in order to land a gig. If you think you fit the bill, don't underestimate yourself, states Milo. 

"Too many times I have conversations with people I think would be great for a role and they are reluctant to submit because they think they are not an 'actor' or they don't look like a 'model.'"

"Once you have submitted and you find yourself sending in a video for consideration, or in the audition room when things get back to normal [after COVID-19], simply relax, be real, be yourself and particularly have fun."

"Auditions go wrong when people come in with a preconceived notion of a big performance. You may have heard the axiom 'less is more' when it comes to performance? This is almost always true."

"When casting directors are seeking 'real people' the clue is in the title there, simply be real! Smiles and positive energy always do go a long way," he concluded.

Beware of scams and agencies that demand you pay them.

While you can make cash from landing gigs, always keep your eyes out for scams, warns Milo. 

"Be mindful of scams. The allure of being featured on TV and having '15 minutes' [of fame] is seductive, and there are some unsavoury characters that will take advantage of that allure."

"No reputable 'real person' casting call will have you paying out of pocket to be considered or to be added to a 'real people roster' with a casting company."

However, when you do find a great gig, multiple companies are willing to pay hundreds, if not thousands for you to get in front of the camera.