53 Physical Tools For Actors: Ultimate Actor Tool List
Have you ever heard that ‘luck’ is when preparation meets opportunity?
Being ready for anything isn’t just good advice as an actor—it’s a must! (Unless, of course, you’re not into booking gigs).
Since I’ve been an auditioning actor, I’ve constantly been thinking about what I need to be successful and how always to be prepared.
So, here’s a list of 53 must-have tools for actors. If you have these tools of acting in your arsenal, you’ll always be ready to pounce on those rare c-Mail audition requests that hit your Actors Access inbox!
Just a heads up, the tools of acting we’re discussing here aren’t your usual acting classes, headshots, demo reels, or resumes. Those items are essential, but I figured you already knew that.
I’m chatting about the physical (and digital) acting tools you’ll wanna have on hand—whether you’re training, auditioning, rehearsing, networking, or hanging out on set. Let’s dive in 🙂
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Tools For Actors Are Ever-changing
Remember, this guide is for your reference only and shouldn’t be considered the end-all-be-all of acting tools lists.
I hope it gives you the guidance you need so you have a deeper understanding of how actors operate. I also have a list of AI tools for actors to check out.
The tools of acting are ever-changing. Be sure to share this list with fellow actors unsure of what resources are needed when pursuing this exciting career.
Learning and Development Tools for Actors
1. Books on Auditioning: For honing audition skills
It’s unlikely you’ll ever attend an audition acting class without the coach or someone in the class mentioning the book “Audition” by Michael Shurtleff.
It’s an old book but still relevant in today’s self-tape audition culture.
Audition
Michael Shurtleffs’ legendary course on auditioning has launched hundreds of successful careers.
2. Books on Self-Management: For managing personal and professional life
As an actor, you’re essentially running your own business, and you need to be able to self-manage your acting career.
The book “Self Management for Actors” by Bonnie Gellispie is the top actor’s book in this category, in my opinion.
Self-management for Actors
Become your future agent’s dream client before you’ve even met.
Self-Management for Actors will help you take control of the business side of your creative career.
3. Books on the Business of Acting: For understanding the industry dynamics
Several books discuss the business side of acting, and I’m sure you’ll have your favorites.
A couple I’ll recommend are “Ask An Agent” by actor talent agent Jason Lockhart and “The Actor’s Life: A Survival Guide” written by ‘The Office’ star Jenna Fischer.
4. Books on Acting Techniques: For exploring different acting methodologies
There’s no ‘best’ acting technique. There’s the technique that’s best for you. Regardless of your preferred technique, there’s likely a book for it.
The Meisner technique is one of the most popular. So naturally, you should be familiar with the book “Sanford Meisner on Acting” by the man himself, Sandford Meisner.
Books, after all, are the acting technique tools for actors outside of taking classes and training.
5. IDEA (International Dialects of English Archive)
This Archive contains dialects from people all over the world. So, if you have to learn a specific dialect, this audio dialect library likely has the voice you want.
It’s one of the best accent tools for actors out there!
6. Character Journals: For in-depth character study
I’ll be honest: this acting tool isn’t for everyone.
Not every actor journals their way through understanding a character, but for those who like placing their thoughts into writing, journalling as your character can be a powerful way to unlock those motivations, obstacles, and values.
If you are a real-life journaler, why not journal for the character you study?
Class/Rehearsal Tools for Actors
7. Vocal Dampener for Vocal Warmups
There aren’t many tools for actors to warm up their voices with. Enter the vocal dampener! Don’t worry; I didn’t know this existed either.
A vocal dampener is like a portable warmup room. It’s a device placed over your mouth that allows you to perform vocal warmups without waking the neighbor.
You’re not always in a space where you can be loud, so having this handy little device on hand will help remove any hindrances restricting your ability to make noise.
This one might be the most innovative of all the tools for actors! lol, just kidding, but let’s face it, as actors, we’re pretty loud and boisterous in general.
I know people who should be wearing a vocal dampener regardless of whether or not they are warming up!
Vocal Dampener
Vocal Dampener for Singers, Actors, Performers, Stress Relief.
A Portable Warm-Up Room.
8. Notepads, highlighters, pens, oh my!
Okay, this one feels like we’re back in school, but acting class should be taken seriously.
Acting is a craft that requires note-taking and documentation. You’ll need to make notes on your scripts as you rehearse and jot down adjustments your acting coach gives you when rehearsing a scene.
Notes are the tools of acting that allow you to recall the feedback and put it into practice.
9. Durable Footwear
You may be on your feet for a while, so opt for comfy, soft-soled, and squeak-free shoes.
Dodge the heels and leather boots – they’re drama and not the kind we want.
When in doubt, check with your acting coach when going to class. In my experience, tennis shoes are not ideal for use in scenes.
10. Recording Device: For recording rehearsals for review
This can be your smartphone or other easy-to-use camera.
If class permits it, record your session and watch it back because sometimes you might miss those golden nuggets your coach gave you or discoveries made in class.
It’s always helpful to be able to review your work.
11. Rehearsal Skirts/Dance Belts: For movement during rehearsals
We’re not all dancers out here, but enough of you are to make it worth investing in some rehearsal skirts or dance belts for those high-energy, lots-of-movement rehearsals, even for non-dancers.
These items act as tools for actors to move freely during rehearsals.
Audition Management Tools for Actors
12. Audition Websites Subscriptions: For finding and tracking auditions
In the United States, the two most significant audition/acting profile sites are:
If you are new to acting and don’t yet have an agent, you’ll still want to have profiles on these sites.
However, Backstage is a popular starting-out site for new actors to start looking for work.
Be sure to search for local acting/filmmaking Facebook groups for projects you could act in.
13. Audition Tracker
Create a Google sheet document and track your auditions.
You don’t need to track everything you submit yourself to (unless you want to), but you should track your auditions to understand what type of work you’ve been auditioning for.
It can be helpful later on in your career.
14. Audition Readers
Most self-tape auditions will have instructions for you to have a reader.
When you get an audition, you’ll likely receive a scene with multiple speakers, including the character you are auditioning for.
An audition reader can read the other character lines for you when you record your self-tape audition. The tools of acting involve your fellow actors!
Many actors will read for other actors over Zoom. Having a network of actors to call on when you need someone to read is important.
You can also use an audition reader app like We Audition if you don’t have any actor friends immediately available.
But if you’ve taken acting classes or any training, chances are you’ve made some friends.
Ensure you exchange info with them and offer to read for them if they ever have auditions. I’m sure they’ll reciprocate!
Self-Tape Audition Tools for Actors
15. Tripods for Quality Self-Tapes
Most self-tapes need to be at eye level and steady. You don’t want to stack books on each other whenever you need to raise your camera.
And if you’re using your smartphone, you must ensure your tripod has a phone mount.
55″ Phone Tripod, PHOPIK
PHOPIK Aluminum Extendable Tripod Stand with Shutter, Carrying Bag, Compatible with iPhone/Android/Sport Camera Perfect for Video Recording/Selfies/Live Stream/Vlogging Black
16. High-Resolution Camera or Smartphone: For filming those video auditions
Most smartphones will suffice. Most of us have a phone with a good enough camera for self-tapes, and plenty of actors book jobs just using their phones.
There are great options for stand-alone cameras if you want to up your game. I use my iPhone 15 Pro for all my auditions, which has a fantastic camera!
17. Acoustic Panels: For sound quality improvement
This one I would say is more optional. If you do voiceover work, you’ll want these, but they’re probably not needed for self-tapes as you’ll typically be standing in front of a backdrop.
If you have an echoey space, maybe it’s worth it.
18. Backdrop Stand and Muslin Backdrop: For a professional look in self-tapes
That will work fine if you have a solid-colored wall in your apartment or home.
If not, it might be worth getting a backdrop to help make your self-tapes look more professional. Casting directors don’t expect you to produce a Steven Spielberg movie.
Still, as self-tapes have become more standard, there is an expectation of a bare minimum level of production quality, and a solid background with no distractions is one of those expectations.
Selens 3x5ft Blue Grey Backdrop
Selens 3x5ft Blue Grey Backdrop, Muslin Pop-Up Collapsible Backdrop 2-in-1 Photo Background Panel with Clip and Carry Bag for Portrait and Headshot Photography
19. External Microphone: For clear audio recording
Most smartphones shouldn’t need an external mic, but upgrading your audio might be worth it, depending on your space.
Omnidirectional mics can attach to smartphones, so don’t think you’re stuck with just your phone’s mic.
20. Teleprompter Apps: For aiding with line delivery
When you don’t have time to memorize all the lines for a self-tape audition read, a teleprompter app or external teleprompter device can come in handy to ‘fake’ memorization as best as possible.
21. Self-Taping Apps
Depending on your level of tech-savvy, you can use or not use an app for self-tapes.
A popular app for self-tapling is Slateable – Self Tape Yourself and Cold Read, a line learning app.
22. Video Editing Software
When editing together a self-tape, the amount of editing needed is minimal. I use iMovie on my Macbook Pro, and it works fine. If you have a PC, Movie Maker should work fine as well.
Kurt Yue, a working actor based in Atlanta, created a fantastic tutorial on how to edit an actor’s self-tape.
An Actors’ Wardrobe
At the beginning of your acting career, and even well into it, you’ll likely be working on lower-budget projects that don’t have wardrobe departments.
These are good wardrobe items to have on hand in case you have to provide your own costume. You can read more about what should be in an actor’s wardrobe here.
The below list is just a suggestion to be well prepared. As long as you have a variety of logo-free t-shirts, jackets/hoodies, a pair of jeans, and a suit, you should be good for most roles.
If the project you’re working on needs something more specific, they should cover it.
It will also be up to them to provide the wardrobe if your clothing will be ruined during the shoot. Otherwise, use the below as a general guide.
An Actors’ Wardrobe – Men
23. Suite and Formal Wear
- Well-fitted suits in grey, navy, brown, and black.
- A skinny suit.
- Button-down dress shirts in blue, black, and white.
- Ties in solid colors and simple patterns.
- Dress shoes in black & brown.
- A good black and brown belt.
24. Casual Wear
- Blue jeans that fit well.
- Khaki pants.
- Polo shirt in solid bright color.
- Snap button plaid shirt.
- Khaki shorts.
25. Layering and Outerwear
- Nice fitting, slight v-neck sweater.
- Cotton lightweight cardigan.
- Clean fitted solid-colored hooded sweatshirt.
26. Footwear
- Work boots
- Clean running shoes
- Clean Converse in black and red
27. Basic Essentials
- Socks (black, brown, navy & white).
- T-shirts in solid colors (red, blue, white, and black) with crew or v-neck.
- A tank top.
An Actors’ Wardrobe – Women
28. Formal and Business Attire
- Blue, white, and black button-down business shirts.
- Grey, navy, or brown suit.
- Black slacks.
- Khaki slacks.
- Comfortable character shoes or sturdy comfortable heels.
29. Casual Wear
- Muted and bright-colored cardigans.
- Bold fitted tees in blue, red, pink, green, and purple, possibly a polo in these colors.
- Casual plaid button-down shirt.
- Denim button-down shirt.
- Nice pair of jeans.
- Black leggings.
30. Dresses and Costumes
- Dresses in classic fits (1950s a-line, 60′s pencil skirt, 70′s maxi, 80′s tulle, 90′s baby doll).
- Scrubs and unlicensed Halloween costumes.
- Solid one-piece and two-piece bathing suits.
31. Outerwear and Cover-Ups
- Robe for covering up skimpy outfits between takes.
- Warm coat for overnight or outdoor shoots.
- Slippers/Uggs for keeping toes warm and relaxed when wearing heels or uncomfortable shoes.
32. Essentials and Accessories:
- Form-fitting white & black tank tops.
- Comfortable sneakers / plain Converse low tops.
- Theater blacks: black dress, long sleeve black tee, black slacks, black shoes.
On-Set Tools for Actors
33. Personal Makeup Kit: For touch-ups on set
Again, not all productions will be well financed, so having your own makeup kit is always a good idea.
MOMIRA Travel Makeup Bag
MOMIRA Travel Makeup Bag Cosmetic Bag Makeup Organizer Bag with Large Lighted Mirror 3 Color Scenarios Adjustable Brightness, Waterproof Makeup Travel Case, Large Makeup Train Case Toiletry Gift
34. Lunch Shirt: For protecting costumes during breaks
The last thing you want to do is get ketchup all over your costume.
Your lunch shirt will keep your outfit clean and save you time, so you don’t have to change.
35. Discreet Snack Pouch: For carrying small snacks on set
Keep your energy up! Having snacks could be the difference between you giving a hangry performance and a happy one.
36. Comfortable Folding Chair: For resting between scenes
Don’t assume you’ll have a place to sit on those desolate film sets.
Having a folding chair is not a bad idea (as long as it’s not a hassle to carry it around).
There are lots of small portable ones for you to have with you.
MISSION MOUNTAIN UltraPort Portable Camping Chair
Lightweight Foldable Chair, Ultralight Backpacking Chair for Outdoor Camp, Hiking, Travel, Beach, and Picnic – Compact Design (Black)
37. Hydration Bottle: For staying hydrated on set
Staying hydrated is a must! I have a bottle that keeps my ice solid for 48 hours! I like my water cold all the time!
HYDROWION 32oz Stainless Steel Water Bottle
(Cold for 48 Hrs, Hot for 24 Hrs), Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Water Flask with Straw Lid, Spout Lid, and Flex Cap, Fit in Any Car Cup Holder, Cobalt
38. Warm Jacket or Coat: For staying warm during outdoor shoots or in cold settings
You’ll know beforehand the location and time of your shoot.
Be prepared with the appropriate tool for warmth so you don’t have to beg your scene partner to cuddle!
39. Wet Wipes: For quick clean-ups
I’m not going to ask what you’re cleaning up, but chances are, you’ll need to clean something up. So bring some wet wipes!
40. Portable Fan: It can get hot on set!
This is one of my most important tools of acting! And in life in general, since I live in the scorching heat of Texas.
Those summertime shoots on set can get hot even when indoors.
The portable fan I use goes with me every time I leave the house! It’s great because it’s rechargeable too.
Portable Fan 10000mAh Rechargeable
Stsase Mini Waist With Max 24H Working Time, 3 Speeds 5100RPM Strong Airflow Wearable Personal Clip Belt for Outdoor, Jobsite, Farms, Traveling, Fishing
Branding Tools For Actors
41. Domain Name
Your name is one of the ultimate marketing tools for actors to promote themselves. Have you secured your actors’ domain name yet? Do it now!
It’s so cheap, and you don’t want someone purchasing it after you are famous and making you pay them a lot of money to get it.
42. Website Hosting Services: For hosting the actor’s website/portfolio
One of the most important marketing tools for actors is your online portfolio.
Many website hosting services are available to build your acting portfolio/website.
My portfolio, for example, is hosted on WPX for WordPress and uses a Kadence theme; however, it’s a little more on the technical side. That’s because I also run a blog.
A simple website builder like Wix will work fine for most actor portfolios.
43. Actor ‘Type-Finder’ Tool: An AI Talent Branding Expert to Tell You Your Type!
This tool is one of the best AI tools for actors (I’m biased since I made it).
Essentially, you can use this tool to learn what roles you might be suited for based on your physical characteristics and personality.
It’s a good alternative if you can’t afford to work with an actor branding coach.
44. IMDB (Internet Movie Database)
IMDB is like the epicenter of all things movies/films from around the globe.
You don’t have to rush to claim your page there, but you’d probably want to down the line.
If the IMDB realm is yet to know you ’cause you haven’t got your name in any credits, no sweat—you can create your page.
Throw in some cool pics, clips, and other stuff, and link it up with your agent’s profile if you’ve got one.
IMDP Pro is one of the most useful research tools for actors when looking up information on industry professionals.
Actor Line Learning/Memorization Apps
45. Memorize Lines: MemoCoach
This is a line memorization app for actors and other performers. It boasts a 4.7-star rating and has over 2k reviews.
You can upload your acting sides and memorize your lines efficiently.
46. Cold Read
As mentioned before, this app lets you record your self-tape but also helps you memorize your lines.
47. Run Lines With Me
With a 4.6-star rating and almost 600 reviews, this app is another winner in the line memorization app niche. Give it a try.
Networking Tools for Actors
48. Business Cards: For networking within the industry
There are physical as well as digital business cards out there. Being able to exchange information easily is super important.
In this article, actor Doug Jones describes how he landed a gig from film director Guillermo del Toro 5 years after handing him his business card.
Luck is when preparation meets opportunity! Remember that!
49. Networking Events
Wherever you are located, you’ll want to know where to find any acting-related events or industry gatherings.
You may be in a small town, and if that’s the case, find virtual ones, but in my opinion, in-person is always better.
That way, you can use your business cards from the previous step.
50. WeAudition: Rehearse and Read Virtually with Other Actors
WeAudition is my absolute favorite way to instantly find a scene partner. This tool could certainly belong in the ‘self-tape’ category, but I also think it’s a fantastic networking tool.
If you need a rehearsal or scene partner to practice with, use WeAudition!
If you are recording a self-tape and want an on-demand virtual reader for your audition, WeAudition always has someone ready to go. Read my full WeAudition review.
Financial Management Tools for Actors
51. Budgeting Apps: For managing finances effectively
Actor Finances are often overlooked. Having financial stability is a crucial aspect of successfully pursuing an acting career.
I use Rocket Money, which lets you monitor your accounts and subscriptions, credit score, net worth, and more, and create a budget.
But use the best app for you. You should be monitoring your finances to some degree.
52. Mileage Tracker: For tracking travel expenses related to acting jobs.
If you’re treating acting like a business, which is it, then your mileage costs will be nice write-offs.
Of course, if you’re booking work and traveling a lot, you’ll want to work with an accountant, as mentioned in the next step.
53. An accountant Experienced with Actor Taxes
When we think of tools for actors, we rarely think of tax professionals. Don’t feel like you need to navigate your complicated tax situation alone!
Sure, using online tax accounting software or even your neighborhood tax professional is helpful.
Still, if you can work with someone who has experience working with actors, it will be the most advantageous for you.
You need to be booking work first, of course, before seeking out an actor accountant.
Conclusion
Having these tangible, physical tools of acting will give you every advantage imaginable in being successful in your audition process and on set.
Remember that everyone’s acting journey is different, and how often you use these tools will depend on how many opportunities you make!
But now that you know all the most important tools for actors, you’ll be sure to kick those auditions butts, be prepared and professional on set, and give the best performance possible!
Now, break a leg and beat those odds!
Stay scripted, stay savvy!
Frequently Asked Questions
What tools do actors use?
Actors use various physical tools to enhance performance and manage their professional lives. These include self-tape equipment (camera, tripod, microphone, and good lighting), high-quality headshots, resumes, voice recorders for practicing lines, comfortable rehearsal clothing, and makeup kits. Additionally, they may use script-reading apps, portable fans for comfort on set, and organizational tools for scheduling and audition tracking.
What should I consider for creating professional-looking self-tape auditions?
For a professional-looking self-tape, consider placing a high-resolution camera or a smartphone on a tripod to ensure a steady, eye-level shot. Utilize a backdrop stand and a muslin backdrop to create a clean, distraction-free background. To enhance sound quality, consider using acoustic panels and an external microphone. Teleprompter apps can assist with line delivery and video editing software can help you combine the final self-tape seamlessly.
What are the tools used in drama?
In drama, actors use tools such as props and costumes, which are essential for character portrayal and setting the scene. Other tools include stage makeup, blocking notes, and script binders. Technical tools like microphones and lighting equipment are also crucial in a theatrical setting.
What Technique Do Most Actors Use?
Actors commonly use Method Acting, Stanislavski’s System, and the Meisner Technique. Each approach varies in how actors connect with their characters, ranging from using personal experiences to focusing on reacting to other characters in the moment.
What is the actor toolbox?
The actor toolbox is the collection of physical items and resources an actor uses to prepare for roles, auditions, and performances. This includes tangible tools like script highlighters, note-taking materials, a reliable bag or case for transportation, vocal health items like throat lozenges and water bottles, and personal care items to maintain appearance and comfort during long work hours.
What are the 4 basic acting skills?
While this question pertains more to conceptual skills, it’s important to note that physical tools support these skills. The four basic acting skills are emotional expressiveness, physical expressiveness, vocal projection, and speech clarity. Tools supporting these skills include voice recorders for feedback, mirrors for practicing expressions, and comfortable clothing for physical freedom.
How can I network effectively in the acting industry?
Effective networking in the acting industry can involve utilizing business cards (both physical and digital) to exchange information with industry professionals easily. Attending networking events, found through various event directories, provides opportunities to meet and connect with industry peers and professionals. Additionally, platforms like SceneBot, which allows you to perform mock auditions for industry professionals, can also be a valuable tool for gaining feedback and potentially catching the eye of casting directors, talent agents, or managers. I think taking classes is one of the best networking strategies.