22/09/2020
Are you making these self-tape mistakes?!
To be honest, I think I’ve seen more self-tapes than I have sunsets…
And you’d be surprised at how many actors are making some really huge self-tape mistakes! But don’t fret, there are simple fixes to each of these blunders.
It’s hard to get an acting gig - particularly during a pandemic. So make sure you’re putting your best foot forward at ALL times when you’re self-taping.
Let’s get into it:
Mistake #1: It’s shot in portrait mode.
*face palm*
Self-tapes must, must, must be shot in landscape!!!
Fix: Turn your phone/camera landscape - done!
Mistake #2: Sound is too quiet/too loud
One of the most important elements of self-taping is getting good quality audio. We need to hear YOU! If you cannot be heard, or if we can only hear your reader and not you, or if you sound like you’re underwater – casting is going to throw your tape in the bin.
Fix: Invest in a good microphone.
Mistake #3: False Starts!
I see so many actors who take soooo long to get into the work. The first 10 seconds are so important in a tape. Make sure you are getting straight into the scene. 1-3 seconds max and even then it has to have a reason. ��
Fix: if you need time to get centred do it, but just edit it out. We want to get straight into the action!
(Always find your moment before and bring that into the scene)
Mistake #4: Background Noise
Casting does not want to hear your dog barking, or your dad mowing the lawn during your self-tape! It’s distracting and is going to take away from your acting.
Fix: Shoot in a quieter space!
Mistake #5: Lighting is too bright/too dark
Seems obvious, but we need to SEE you. Make sure there’s enough light in your self-taping space, and that it is flattering, soft and even light.
Fix: Don’t shine a desk lamp or a torch on your face. Invest in some LED lights, or use a room with plenty of natural light.
Mistake #6: Bad Backdrop
No crinkled sheets. No cluttered bookshelves. No bathrooms. No bright crazy colours. A backdrop needs to be plain and flattering: ideally a nice plain blue, white or grey. Make sure you are the centre of attention.
Fix: Designate a plain “self-tape wall” in your home or better yet, invest in a self-tape backdrop!
Mistake #7: Poor Framing
Another one that goes wrong all the time! The camera needs to be set up with the lens at the same level as your eyes. Not above shooting down so we see the top of your head, and not below shooting up so we see the insides of your nostrils! The best framing is to have a gap between your head and the top of the frame, cutting off around your mid bicep at the bottom of the frame.
Fix: Make sure the camera is set at eye level height, zoomed in enough that you take up about 1/3 of the frame, make sure you’re standing front and centre. Or - find a savvy friend who knows how to make you look amazing, and get them to shoot your self-tapes for you!
Mistake #8: Going overboard on Costume!
Some actors think that wearing a full scuba diver outfit is going to help them book a gig. Well, it’s certainly going to make them stand out, but not in a good way.
Fix: Keep it simple, and professional. Definitely HINT at character, but don't go overboard.
Mistake #9: Distracting or Dangerous Props
Too often I see self-tapes where actors are pulling knives out of their sleeves, guns out of their jacket pockets or using a plush toy in place of a baby! Not only is it dangerous to use weapons as props, it’s also incredibly distracting. A casting director is going to be completely distracted by the fact that you’re pointing a knife at the camera, and won’t be paying any attention to your acting.
Fix: Unless the script specifically – and I mean specifically states that you must be handling a certain prop – please avoid using props as much as possible. If it’s something simple, like a pen and paper or a glass of water - that’s okay, just make sure the action isn’t distracting.
Mistake #10: Moving Camera
Try to remember that your self-tape is not The Blair Witch Project. There is no reason for you to be handling the camera. You need to make sure it is completely still while you are filming.
Fix: Use a tripod.
Mistake #11: Weird Edits
Self tapes are 1 take only! You cannot edit multiple takes together, this shows your skills as an editor not an actor. 1 take, all the way through, with great acting.
Fix: If this means you need to do 10 takes to get it right, then so be it! This is the nature of the game, there’s no editing in auditions, and the same goes for self-tapes.
Mistake #12: Bad Acting
Now this is the big one to avoid. You need to be great if you’re going to book that role!
Fix: Get thee to an acting class! Practise your self-taping on a regular basis.
