How Indie Filmmakers Can Find Actors

There a lot of independent filmmakers out there that I’ve seen/heard express how hard it is to find actors for their no, or low budget film. It is challenging. especially if you are looking in certain areas, or just making a quick post here an there with your casting call.

You have to expand your search a bit. Here are a ton of ways to find actors, but first…

You Always Need Time

The above list is an extensive list for you to spread the word you’re looking for actors, but the one thing I want you to remember is that can’t be done last minute. The smartest thing you can do when you have no money to make a short film to give yourself enough time to get all your ducks in a row. a

And I know what your’re thinking “But Amber what about the last minutes drop-outs, and those people who get those last minute paid gigs?!” If you gave yourself enough time to cast your film you’ll have a few top picks. If you’re #1 bails you have a good list to go off of to reach out to as a great runner up. Usually when people are casting they end up being torn between 2 people for a certain part.

If you give yourself enough time this all become a bit easier on you. Enough time to get the word out there, and for people to share your casting call. This all can’t happen instantly. So give yourself the time you need. Don’t wait till last minute to look for your actors.

🎭 Actor-Specific Platforms

Let’s just get this one out of way

Casting Websites (Free or Low-Cost Tiers):
Backstage, Casting Networks, Actors Access, and Mandy often allow unpaid or student projects to be posted at little to no cost. The benefit? You’ll reach actors actively searching for roles.

– you all probably know this option. It’s not the ONLY way to find actors. But you need to give yourself enough lead time when you make these postings. This is the main way filmmakers look for their actors now. They get frustrated when they don’t get too many bites – they then throw their arms up and say “Whelp, I guess I can’t make my film then.” Cue the sulking look in the corner.

But don’t give up because this list is long folks!

⚡Up-and-Coming Casting Directors:

Many newer casting directors are looking to build their portfolios and may be open to collaborating on indie projects for little to no cost. They often have access to a pool of eager actors you might not reach otherwise

📱 Social Media & Online Communities

Facebook Groups: Search for groups like “Actors in [Your City]” or “Indie Film Casting Calls.” Actors keep an eye on these spaces for opportunities.

Instagram & TikTok: Use hashtags like #NYCActors or #IndieFilmCasting to find performers who are posting monologues, reels, or acting challenges.

Reddit & Discord: Subreddits like r/acting or r/filmmakers—and film-focused Discord servers—are goldmines for casting calls. Many actors hang out here looking for networking opportunities.

With these options you have to be persistent. Remember, not all your friends will see what you post that one random time. You have to post and then add that post to your stories and then other accounts. You can’t expect a good return posting one time. Do it daily, in different styles to keep it fresh.

You also have to remember to tag people so they share your post as well. You want as many eyes on your casting call as possible! And actually put in the post for people to share it because it’ll help you out.

🏫 Schools & Classes

University Theater Departments: Drama students need reel material and experience. Contact professors or post on bulletin boards.

Acting Studios & Improv Classes: Students in ongoing training, including improv classes, are often looking for projects outside the classroom to sharpen their skills and build footage for their reels.

This options is largely forgotten. If you want to find hungry actors ready to work, they’re right here!

🎬 Industry Networking

Crew Referrals: Ask your DP, AD, or other crew members, they often know actors personally.

Film Networking Events, Film Festivals & Local Screenings: Talk to actors who appear in shorts or indie films. They’re usually looking for their next gig.

The most underrated way of finding anything including actors for you next film. You want more options for gear, cast, and your crew – GET OUT THERE – show your face at events. Not only show up, talk to people and talk about wha you need. I’ve met so many actors this way!

🚶 Local Resources

Community Theaters: Stage actors frequently want to add on-camera credits. 

Meetups & Events: Search Meetup.com or Eventbrite.com for local filmmaker/actor meetups. Making in-person connections pays off so much. Everyone always wants to do everythign through email, or a posting. Go to a local event for once. Be with other humans in a room. 

💡 Outside-the-Box Ideas

Friends & Non-Actors: Sometimes the most authentic performances come from people who aren’t trained actors. Perfect for certain stories. 

Maybe you wrote a part with a friend in mind, that friend might be a possibility. But also ask friends who they know, friends of friends. Have people ask around to their friends and family. There’s absolutely an actor in there somewhere.

Street Casting: If someone has the exact look or vibe you need, ask them! It’s unconventional but often works in indie filmmaking. Now, this is a brave option if you’re willing to just stop a stranger on the street, but this has happened before. Just don’t be a creep about you guys. There are many woman who will be on high alert. 

What do I give them?

A lot of short films are made basically on a prayer, some favors, and the goodness of people hearts. That mean no money, but you can still some decent talent with no money. Actors want the chance to act, and practice their craft. I’m sure they def want a big pay day, but if they are just stating out, have no reel, or footage to show their skills you can help them with that.

You can offer them:

• Footage for their reel and website (from the project you brought them on to)
• Barter for editing a reel for their website, or project they need help with
• Barter to help record their self tapes
• You can offer headshots if you have photography skills
• You can offer deferred payment if you plan on making anything from your project
• IMDb credit (Some actors don’t have their first credit on IMDb yet)

I know all of this will help you get your film cast! The main take away is be persistent, don’t give up, and give yourself enough time. But also probably the hardest of all for most is just asking people for help. Just ask people for what you’re looking for you never know. The worst they can say is “No.”