What we saw right – and wrong – in your Self-Tapes
enCAST recently helped pre-cast a political thriller film in Europe and received over 100 submissions for self-tapes. While some were great, many lacked a professional touch. Here are some tips to improve your self-tapes:
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Submission Email: Provide essential information briefly, include a link to your self-tape, and avoid unnecessary details.
- Links: Double-check your links to ensure they work correctly.
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No Excuses: Avoid explaining problems or challenges in your email or self-tape. Just focus on delivering your best performance.
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Self-Tape Tips:
- Add a title card at the beginning and end of your tape with your name, contact email, and role.
- Send your best take only and only include a slate if requested.
- Record your self-tape in landscape mode.
- Ensure clear and audible sound; consider using a lapel mic.
- Avoid basic shooting problems: use a tripod, don’t look directly at the camera, keep the scene unbroken, and use ample lighting with a clutter-free background.
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Final Tips:
- Only one actor should be in the frame.
- Memorize your lines; avoid reading from a script.
- Use an off-screen partner to read the other part – don’t do it alone.
- End your self-tape with a few seconds of silence instead of abruptly cutting the scene.
Follow these tips to enhance your self-tapes for better audition opportunities.
