CF Cast Tips | Casting Frontier

An Introduction to Self Tape Auditions and Submissions

Casting directors and content creators can request self tape auditions via Self Tape. Saving you time and money, Self Tape gives you the control to submit your best read. If you follow our tips, you will begin to deliver great video submissions, giving you the competitive edge and increasing your chances of booking your next role.

Video Tutorial

Follow "The Read Instructions"

Pay close attention to what casting directors request for a specific read. These details are listed in the read instructions section of the role details. Some roles will include sides and/or other information necessary for your read. A successful read will result if you perform exactly per the instructions.

Lighting

Shoot your read in a well-lit room with either portable light or natural light from a window or skylight. Make sure the lighting source is not behind you, as it will darken you unfavorably. Ideas for light: windows, desk/floor/overhead lights.

Sound

Good sound will raise the quality of your videos, as sound is HALF of what we experience when watching a film, TV show or commercial. Ideally, record your read in a quiet room indoors. Most smartphones, digital cameras and webcams from 2010 onwards have good built-in microphones. If you have access to a decent microphone, don’t be afraid to use it for your reads.

Video Quality

As with sound, most laptop/desktop computers, smartphones and tablets from the last 5-7 years will deliver video quality that is sufficient for Self Tape submissions. You can also record with a higher-quality video camera (or video-enabled digital still camera that includes an audio input). In addition, there are several studios where you can tape your read on a professional set.

Background

Use a solid color, non-white background, with little to no clutter behind you. The idea is to make you the focus of the shot, so keep everything behind you as simple as possible.

Attire

Unless the instructions call for you to wear a specific outfit or uniform, wear a well-fitting, simple outfit, with solid colors (stripes, patterns and big accessories/jewelry are big no-no’s).

Make-Up

Be wary of overdoing it, but a little make-up will help your features appear on camera so you contrast with the simple background you’ve chosen. Use foundation or powder to limit oil reflections.

Slating

Whether or not the casting director has given slating instructions, a professional actor will always deliver a theatrical slate, by stating your name, followed by the name of the role for which you’re auditioning.

The key is to be clear and confident with your delivery as this is your first impression with the director / production. As stated previously, if there are specific slating instructions, follow them.

Test, but set a time limit

Whether self-taping alone or with the help of a friend or family member, it’s ok to test out a few takes – especially when testing sound, lighting and quality — but set a time limit. Frequently, those first few takes will capture your best performance.

Video & File Formatting Tips

Shoot in 720p resolution and keep each take to under 150 MB. For video use the .mp4 or .mov file type and .mp3 for audio clips. Unless instructed otherwise, hold your mobile device or camera in landscape view.

Self Tape Tips

Self Tape gives you the control to submit your best read from anywhere.