If you have been taking TV acting classes in Manchester and building up your skills and confidence, then you may be starting to think about auditioning for a few roles. As part of the audition process, it is likely that you will be asked to submit a self-tape to the casting director or creative team.
In this day and age, this is most likely to be a digital recording, but the term ‘self-tape’ is still widely used to describe the pre-recorded audition. It might be requested as part of a first-stage screening process, or instead of an in-person audition.
The team will have asked you for the self-tape after reviewing your CV, headshot, and possibly demo reel, so you can already congratulate yourself on getting this far. They like what they see, and they want to know more. It’s your chance to show them what you can do and put your best foot forward. Here are some tips for a top self-tape audition!
Read the instructions carefully
It’s easy to get carried away with the buzz of being asked for a self-tape and diving in straight away. However, let your excitement settle down and read the invitation email carefully.
If you have been sent a whole script, don’t just skim your part, but take some time to read and digest it all and allow yourself some time to respond intellectually and emotionally to it.
When you have got your head around it, do some background research on the director and view some samples of their past work if you can. This will give you an idea of what style and genre to expect. Learn all your lines well so that they are second nature and you will sound more natural and confident on camera.
Warm up before going on camera
Before switching on the camera, warm up with some stretching exercises and vocals to loosen up your body and open up the breath. This will help you give a more relaxed and energised performance. Do a few rehearsals but don’t stress too much about trying to please the director: they want to see what you can bring to the role.
Find the right environment to make your recording
Make your recording in a quiet space without too much noise or any distractions. Don’t fret too much about the background, as long as you can be seen and heard easily on the video. Natural light is best wherever possible. Introduce yourself by saying your name and agent clearly at the beginning of the tape.
Get your camerawork right
Keep your head and shoulders clearly in shot at all times, framing yourself slightly to the right or left of the lens but not in profile. Wear something in keeping with the character, but not too bright and bold as this will be distracting.
Make three recordings of the scene and pick the best one, or two if this is what the casting director asks for. Make sure that you follow their instructions carefully as to how to send the tape to them, and label it clearly with your details and the role you are auditioning for.