Hiring and managing actors for your next project is an involved process. If you’re considering hiring actors, then San Diego talent agencies like our team here at InnoVision Talent Agency (ITA) can help. We’ll guide you through each step so everything runs smoothly.
From auditioning actors to managing talent during project development and filming, here’s what you need to know when casting your next San Diego-based project:
Hold Auditions
The first step in hiring actors is to audition them for the roles you are casting. There are a few ways to do this. You could reach out to talent agencies in your area to see if they have someone on their roster who would be a good fit for the project or you could place a casting notice and have actors submit their headshots or an audition tape for the roles. Both of those options would be considered “closed auditions,” where you prescreen the actors and invite only those selected for an audition.
Another option is to hold an open call. Rather than having actors submit and invite only those you feel are suitable for the project, you would instead publish the date, time and place of the audition so anyone interested can attend. Remember that this can sometimes lead to what’s known as a “cattle call,” when a large number of actors turn up to audition for a project. A cattle call can be a difficult situation to manage and there may be a better way of doing things.
Utilizing the Talent Roster at InnoVision
InnoVision Talent Agency has an innovative way of managing talent. As a casting director, you are invited to view our talent roster and see who may be the best fit for your next project. When you find the actors you’re interested in, you can provide them with a selection from your script (also called “sides”) and ask them to submit a video audition instead of holding an in-person meeting. This saves you both time and money since it eliminates the need to book a studio space.
Once you’ve selected your talent, contact us and we’ll coordinate the hiring process, including negotiating the actor’s pay rate. If you’re interested in booking our talent, we’ll charge up to 20 percent of that negotiated rate. If you decide to move forward with other actors, you owe us nothing. That makes working with ITA risk-free.
Since we only charge our fee when you choose to cast our talent in your project, you can try us without any commitment. Give us a shot and you may find our agency model is just what you need to streamline your casting process.
Communicate Project Terms
There’s more to casting than simply negotiating pay rates. For example, check the availability of each actor you’re interested in hiring and confirm they can commit to the project shoot dates. You should also communicate how transportation and wardrobe will be handled.
For instance, if the production is supplying the project wardrobe, be sure to get each actor’s current measurements. If you want the actors to supply their own wardrobe instead, provide a detailed description of what they will need to bring to the shoot. It’s also a good idea to let them know whether they must come camera-ready or if hair and makeup will be provided.
Have a Table Read
Like actors have rehearsals leading up to a theatrical production, you want to allow your actors to work with one another before filming. So, depending on the type of project you’re casting, you may want to hold a table read prior to the start of the shoot.
A table read enables you to provide direction or make adjustments before the project gets underway. It also lets your actors become comfortable with one another and gives them a better idea of what to expect during filming.
Provide Call Times
Call each actor at least one day before their scheduled shoot to give them their call time when they’re expected to be on set. You should also communicate when they can expect to hear from you so they don’t miss your call. This is one last opportunity to confirm the actor has all the necessary information and will be thoroughly prepared for the shoot.
Be Patient on Set
One of the hallmarks of a good director is providing clear direction. Another hallmark is being patient with your actors. Give detailed directions without telling the actor exactly how you would like them to interpret the line.
Instead, give them some room to grow into their part. Allow your actors to be creative and find their place in the role. Be patient if it takes them a few takes to get things just right. Fostering a supportive environment on set will give your actors the artistic freedom to shine.
Have a Plan B
Sometimes, even the best-laid plans aren’t enough and the unexpected happens. You may have an actor get sick, a change in project schedule or an unprofessional actor who consistently shows up late to set. These scenarios may lead you to replace an actor you’ve hired. So, have a Plan B in place to ensure your project stays on track.
For instance, you should have a few backup actors in mind, just in case you need to recast a role. You should also have some flexibility in the project schedule in case you need to reschedule a shoot day or two. Being flexible and having a backup plan will make your project run much more smoothly and prevent unnecessary stress.
When it comes to hiring actors, San Diego-based InnoVision Talent Agency is here to assist and ease your stress. Contact us to learn more about what we can do for you. We’re committed to a diverse talent roster of all types and experience levels. So whether you’re looking for fresh faces or seasoned professionals, we’re confident our top-notch talent will deliver.