Whether you’re going to a studio that can produce your self-tape or you plan on doing the tape yourself, there are certain key things you should be thinking of:
#1 Be prepared. If you’ve been given the script days in advance or at least a day in advance, please read the material, study it, and prepare. There is nothing that reads more unprofessional than an actor who is not prepared. It’s a waste of your time, a waste of time for the person reading with you, and does not leave a good impression amongst casting directors. The idea is not to try and book THIS job, but instead, leave an impression that will keep you in the room for the rest of your life for ALL JOBS, or at least the ones you’re right for.
#2 Show up for yourself at least 15 minutes early. If you do this, you will not be stressed out, you will have a moment in which to breathe and really get into the zone. This same rule applies across the board, even in life. Show up for yourself!
#3 Rehearsal is homework. Keep it this way, this way you don’t spend time trying to figure out how you’re going to execute the scene during your self-tape session. Come prepared and ready to play. Use the time you’ve booked or set aside to try different options that will bring you closer to the success of the scene or scenes.
#4 Be OFF-BOOK! Actors who have properly prepared and have made a choice, walk into the room with little or no doubt, confident (not Ego & Pride) and leave strong impressions with casting directors. This is the same energy you should walk in with when you do your self-tape at a studio or on your own. Your the casting director for the next few minutes to however much time you spend on the self-tape. So just like them, root for yourself and expect the very best!
#5 TRUST. The most important ingredient for a successful self-tape. Trust that you have what it takes. That it’s in your DNA. That it lives in your spirit. This way, if you’ve prepared and you TRUST, nothing but the very best will show up.
As a side note, when you do your Slate*, make sure to take full control of this moment. Don’t shy away. It’s the one line that isn’t in the script and, it belongs to YOU. It’s truly your moment to shine and show “Who” and “What You Are!”.
*Slate: When you state your name at an audition. For some auditions, this can sometimes be followed by stating the following items: Character Name, Height, Agency, Location of where an actor resides and/or does an actor have a valid Passport. Any other items depending on the project can be added to this list. This is usually stated very clearly in the breakdown or by the casting director in the room.
Register for a Self Tape session at the Victor Cruz Acting Studio.
