How to Make Acting More Realistic: Proven Techniques for Authentic Performances

By Steve Dezย โ€ขย  Updated: 10/16/23ย โ€ขย  12 min read

Sharing is caring!

Table of Contents



In the creative world of acting, authenticity is key. Are you asking yourself โ€œHow to make acting more realistic?โ€

Well, youโ€™re in the right place. In this post, weโ€™ll explore proven techniques including learning the elements of a characterโ€™s background, traits, and motivations, practicing improvisation for natural reactions, and intimately mastering the script to fully understand character motivation.

In addition, weโ€™ll delve into the importance of developing a backstory for deeper understanding and more convincing performances, how to effectively use the tool of visualizing scenes for mental preparation and believable reactions, and finally, how you can benefit from joining acting classes that offer professional guidance in technique and emotional expression.

The aim is to help you deliver authentic performances that resonate deeply with audiences.

Best for Beginners
Dezperate Actor - Cracking The Hollywood Code
$97

Designed to help you catapult your career to new heights without compromising your art, all while building a profitable and purposeful acting empire.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

how to make acting more realistic

Learning the Elements of a Character: Background, Traits, and Motivations

Ever wondered how to make acting more realistic? The journey starts with your character. Now that I think about it, to offer authentic portrayal, one must dive deep into the psyche of the character theyโ€™re going to embody. For truly natural acting techniques, start by scrutinizing the background, traits, and motivations of your character. Explore books or articles featuring similar characters or experiences.

All things considered, interviewing individuals who share traits akin to your character can provide direct insight into their world-view and behaviors. This kind of research is valuable for developing authentic character development tips.

Practicing Improvisation for Natural Reactions

In Hollywood acting circles,, improvisation holds a revered spot. By training yourself in spontaneity, youโ€™ll discover true reactional instincts that elevate your performance from staged to believable.

[p]In any case, regular practice in improvisation scenarios can help you respond organically in different situations โ€“ this is a key goal when learning how to make acting more realistic.

Mastering the Script: Knowing Your Lines and Understanding Character Motivation

You see, mastering the script isnโ€™t solely about memorizing lines; itโ€™s also about comprehending what drives your character at every stage. Getting familiar with these emotional triggers allows for an emotional depth in acting that depicts a realistic performance.

While working on the lines, focus also on the โ€˜whyโ€™. This is crucial in method acting techniques and plays a key role in delivering an authentic portrayal.

Developing a Backstory for Deeper Understanding and Convincing Performance

A well-developed backstory adds layers of complexity to your character, offering more opportunities for realistic performances. The key here is to delve into your characterโ€™s past, discovering their life experiences that shaped their personality โ€“ this leads to subtle expressions in performance.

Visualizing Scenes for Mental Preparation and Believable Reactions

In any case, envisioning each scene before performing it primes you mentally and emotionally, encouraging credible reactions during the actual scene. Pay attention not just to visuals but also sensory details like smells or tastes โ€“ they enhance overall perception.

[p]Hereโ€™s a tip:
All good actors know that strong visualization skills are integral in honing improvisation skills in acting โ€“ itโ€™s an effective way of preparing yourself for various eventualities on stage or camera.[/p]

Joining Acting Classes for Professional Guidance in Technique and Emotional Expression

Apart from these self-practice methods of achieving realistic acting performances, consider joining acting classes. A professional guide can provide specialized training based on specific techniques like vocal projection and enunciation which will improve both technical and emotional aspects of acting.

how to make acting more realistic

Best Seller - Special Deal
Dezperate Actor - Bundled Special!
$148

This is the special Bundle of our Flagship Programs in one for a discount! Don't miss your opportunity to get the mentorship and online guidance you need to become an actor today. Includes Dezperate Actor - Cracking the Hollywood Code + Dezperate Actor 2.8 - Representation on Demand

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

If youโ€™re in the process of learning how to make your acting more realistic, you may be wondering where to get the best training. There are many excellent places around the world offering top-notch acting programs. For instance, if youโ€™re planning to study in North America, there are numerous places to consider. Check out our guide on where to study acting in New York . If Canada is of interest, we have tips on where to study acting in Canada .

Of course, studying abroad can also be a great option! From Londonโ€™s prestigious arts institutions detailed here โ€“ where to study acting in London , or Australiaโ€™s vibrant creative scene covered at where to study acting in Australia , right down to the thriving theatre culture in Ireland which you can read about here: where to study acting in Ireland .

A bit further along your career and need tips on creating a demo reel? Find out more about what should be included and how long it should be with our guide on how long an acting reel should be.

Done For You! - Just Replace with your Information
Acting Resumรฉ Templates
$9 - $12

Our acting resume templates are specifically designed to showcase your talents and highlight your experiences in the industry.

With a polished and professional resume, you can stand out to casting directors and increase your chances of landing your next big role.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

My Personal Take about How to Make Acting More Realistic

Hey there my friend!

Iโ€™m Steve Dez, and when it comes to how to make acting more realistic, Iโ€™ve got a treasure trove of experience up my sleeve.

Working as an actor in the bustling world of Hollywood, diving deep into the craft, understanding its nuances has been a wild yet gratifying journey.

You see, being part of this dynamic industry has equipped me with some exciting techniques that can absolutely transform your performance. In my upcoming blog post titled โ€˜How to Make Acting More Realistic: Proven Techniques for Authentic Performancesโ€˜, Iโ€™ll be laying out some practical tips that have worked wonders for me and many others.



In any case, remember that it takes time and practice to fine-tune these skills, so keep striving and never lose heart! Now that I think about it, itโ€™s also significant to mention Actor Marketing & Business aspects which could pave your way towards success.

All things considered, if you have the passion for acting and wish to shine bright under those Hollywood lights then believe me โ€“ youโ€™ve got what it takes! Hereโ€™s raising a toast to all your future performances โ€“ may they be nothing short of real, raw, and riveting!

Mentorship on the Go
Dezperate Actor - Coaching For Actors Online Program
$79

Coaching for actors focused on marketing can help actors develop strategies for promoting themselves and their work to agents, casting directors, and other industry professionals.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Best Bundle Deal - Exclusive Price
Dezperate Actor - Complete Edition Program
$198

The Complete Edition is the ultimate bundle designed to give actors the tools and knowledge they need to effectively promote themselves and succeed in the competitive world of acting. It includes - The Dezperate Actor - Cracking the Hollywood Code Program, Dezperate Actor 2.8 - Representation on Demand, Dezperate Actor - Coaching For Actors Online Program + Bonuses


We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Before you goโ€ฆ

Takeaway 1: Dive Deep into Your Character

To make your acting more realistic, you gotta know your character inside out. Do your homework and research their background, traits, and motivations extensively. Get to know them like theyโ€™re your best friend. You can read about similar characters or people whoโ€™ve had similar experiences to get some inspiration. Heck, you can even interview folks who share traits with your character. The more you understand your character, the more authentic and believable your performance will be.

Takeaway 2: Master the Script

Memorizing lines is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to acting realistically. Take it a step further by truly understanding what motivates your character in each scene. By doing so, youโ€™ll bring a whole new level of honesty to your performance. So study that script like thereโ€™s no tomorrow! Once you know those lines like the back of your hand, youโ€™ll have room in your head to focus on how you deliver them with real emotion and conviction.

Takeaway 3: Bring Your Character to Life

You know what they say โ€“ every great actor needs a killer backstory! Develop a backstory for your character that goes beyond whatโ€™s written in the script. This will give you a deeper understanding of their motivations and reactions, which will shine through in an incredibly convincing performance. Take inspiration from other performances but remember to add a dash of yourself into the mix. And donโ€™t forget to visualize each scene before performing it โ€“ this helps prepare you mentally and adds those authentic touches that make everything feel real.

So there you have it โ€“ three key takeaways for making your acting more realistic! Dive deep into your characterโ€™s world, master that script inside out, and bring every inch of their being to life on stage or screen. And donโ€™t forget to keep learning and growing as an actor โ€“ join classes, participate in projects, and observe the people around you. At the end of the day, acting is a journey of self-discovery and creativity. Enjoy every step of the way!

Looking to take your acting skills to the next level? Studying at the best acting classes can give you the tools and techniques necessary to portray more believable, realistic characters.

The key to making your acting more realistic often lies in constant learning and practicing. Enrolling in the best online acting classes can provide you with a flexible way to hone your craft, whatever your schedule may be.

Remember, bringing authenticity to your performance is a skill that comes with practice. Whether youโ€™re attending physical acting classes or opting for online ones, focus on immersing yourself fully in the characterโ€™s emotions and motivations.

Best Seller
Dezperate Actor 2.8 - Representation on Demand Online Program
$98

As you progress in your career, you're going to need Representation and what better way to obtain it than by following a proven system that works in landing you the best agents, managers, publishers and more! This online program will help you get closer to your goals in being a working professional Hollywood Actor.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Sharing is caring!

Steve Dez

I am the founder of Dezperate Actorยฎ and I have been in the acting and entertainment industry since 2011. Since then, my mission is to make acting and breaking into Hollywood easy for everyone. And each year, I continue to help more people with acting tips, resources, coaching and online courses.

Keep Reading