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Ten Steps to Creating and Submitting Your Best Audition Tape

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Ten Steps to Creating and Submitting Your Best Audition Tape

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1

It all starts with your background. Clear the mess, make sure there are no patterns behind you and keep it neutral to avoid looking washed out.

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2

Great lighting is crucial to your tape; so, look for a large, natural light source, much like a big window, and keep it simple.

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3

The good news is that you don’t need an expensive camera. Camera phones are totally fine to use. But make sure to rotate the phone horizontally, not vertically. Since submissions will most likely be watched on a computer, it is best to film accordingly so your video will fill the horizontal space on every monitor. If you can, use a tripod! No one likes a shaky self-tape. Try to also obtain a microphone that connects to your cellphone. This will make your audio easier to understand and minimize sounds and noises.

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4

Have your lines memorized and look presentable. (For more information, see our 10 acting tips.) Think of this self-tape as an interview: dress the part, either business casual or to the character in which you are trying to portray.

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5

Know your camera angles. Make sure the camera is stable and you are visible head-to-toe for the production team.

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6

If there is a script with another person in the scene, get someone to read it with you (preferably another actor). This will allow for the viewers to see how you interact with others in the scene. Never change the script dialogue. Say it verbatim.

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7

Finish your audition tape by recording your slate (which is your basic information): name, height, representation (if any), present location, age, character you are auditioning for and any Union affiliations.

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8

Learn the basic software to edit your perfect audition tape. There are free software options that can take your tape to the next level.

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9

Follow directions from the casting call and the deliverable requirements. If you have no requirements on how to deliver your perfect self-tape, try using Dropbox or OneDrive. These online delivery software options are free and, unlike YouTube or Vimeo, do not have commercials or ads that run before or after your video!

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10

Never be late submitting your audition tape. Be aware of deadlines, so you don’t miss your chance of getting a role!