So you're just about to embark on your first professional self tape acting audition?
For good reason, self-tape auditions are becoming a day to day occurrence of the casting process in the entertainment industry today.
Whilst broadening the casting bracket so that more diverse talent can be seen, they also save time and money on studio rentals & travel by enabling actors to take auditions in the convenience of their own homes.
However, self-tape auditions provide a unique set of difficulties, so it's critical to be organised and prepared to be able to present a job capturing audition.
Don't worry, we've all been there, so I created a quick list of the top 5 tips for a successful self tape acting audition.
1. Space
Choose a peaceful, well-lit space. Make sure there is no distracting background and if possible try to have it plain white.
Your video will be clear and of higher quality as a result.
2. Test & Prepare your equipment
Picture, Sound & Lighting .
Picture -
Keep it Steady!
Use a Tripod or Mount for you camera or phone to keep it steady.
Phones are easily good enough quality these days and keep file sizes to a downloadable size.
Sound -
Audible & Clean!
Try to make sure there is no external distractions happening around your space.
Microphones will make your sound quality better providing a clearer and more directional audio. You can attach one directly to your phone and get a directional microphone or a lavier clip on microphone.
If you also have a scene partner reading in, have them stand behind the camera at a bit of a distance, we don't want their off camera voice to be too loud and distracting!
Lighting -
Be well lit and make sure there is no shadow on anypart of your face.
There is a reason why there are so many lights on a set; good lighting is paramount to a beautiful shot.
A basic LED or ring light set up is affordable and effective.
Make sure the lighting is not so strong that you can't see!
3. Practice
Before you start recording, take some time to practice your audition material.
Learn your lines, feel the beats and make clear choices.
If you need help learning lines, find someone to help you rehearse. There are also some apps available that can help you do this if you are alone.
Preparation will help you feel more confident, unique and creative when it's time to record and smash that tape!
Remember your audition is the opportunity to demonstrate a character that you have prepared.
It's one of the main parts of the JOB, not the thing you do BEFORE THE JOB!
4. Appearance
Pay attention to your appearance. You want to make it quick and easy for the casting director to visualise you as the character so make sure you're dressed appropriately for the role that you are going for.
Avoid wearing busy patterns & very bright colors, as these can be distracting on camera.
5. Testing
Test your equipment prior to recording!
There's nothing worse than thinking you've got the take to then find out there were techinical issues with it later before submitting.
Make sure your camera and microphone are working properly and are positioned correctly.
If you are having to do a live stream audition, it's also a good idea to test your internet connection to ensure that you have a stable connection and to test your camera and audio settings on the streaming platform prior to your audition.
Create a "mark" for yourself on the floor -
This is something that will not be seen by the camera but will be a "marker" for you in your shot. It will enable that you have the framing to your liking.
Take a test shot to see your mark, framing & lighting is as you want.
Record a couple of takes to get a feel for the direction of the scene you want to go in, and review to make any adjustments to the aesthetics & performance. This will give you a chance to make any necessary adjustments and ensure that you're happy with the final take before submission.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out!
Good luck & Break a leg!