The 8 x 10 (inches--the size of the picture) black and white photograph that is an actors'
first impression most of the time. Besides your in person smiling face and your wonderful personality, this is your most important tool. Glue your resume to the back of your headshot.Have you seen HEADSHOTS 'R US? 
A short (5 to 60 minute) film or video tape made for the exclusive use of the client (usually a big business) that is not for broadcast to the general public. If you're in one, ask for a copy for your demo reel. If they don't want to give you one, ask if you can bring them a blank tape--sometimes that works...sometimes, you have to pay them. Don't pay too much--unless your work is Academy Award Winning! Don't make an issue out of it if they don't want to give out copies. Remember, you can always ask your agent.
Always a part of the audition procedure, even if it's just the small talk before the casting director has you read from the script. Just be sure when they say, "tell me all about yourself" or "what have you been doing lately," you have something interesting (not too pushy) to say. You can write yourself a script about the subject (you) and then do it like your making it up on the spot! Be careful with this...if you can't 'act spontaneous' , you may be better off just answering on the spot. Listen when they talk. They hire who they like and who they think would be fun to work with (ok, they hire talented actors too).
A real or imaginary X on the floor in front of the camera where the actor stands. "Hit Your Mark" means just that--go over and stand right there on your X! Cameras have marks, sometimes several marks to hit during one take. You may also hear "Mark It" which brings out the slate.
When working on a UNION job (SAG\AFTRA) the lowest amount of money a company is allowed to pay you for your work (and it depends on what kind of work you're doing). It's best explained by a qualified agent.
German for without sound (mit ot)--just react, follow the script and listen to the director's instructions from off camera. You'll be surprised at how much acting you'll get to do, even when you don't speak!
Just beyond what the camera 'sees'. It's also where the other character's lines come from when it's time for your close up, and if you're lucky, they'll stay around and read them for you. If not, you'll hear the voice of the script supervisor 'reading' you cue lines from "off camera". Don't worry, when you have worked your way a little farther up the SHOWBIZ ladder, they'll do your close up first and then you can leave. (But if you're a real pro, you'll stay and give the other actor a break!)
A lead role in a commercial--usually a speaking role and always, ok, mostly always paid more than extras or background people. It doesn't necessarily mean you have lines. Principal Voice On Camera means lines, Principal On Camera may mean no lines. However, they both mean you better ask your agent before you show up on the set! They will expect you to know your lines if you have any!
The other half of your first impression--glued to the back of your headshot--this should be an honest list of your roles, training, agent, and contact phone numbers. If you haven't done it yet, don't make it up!
