Chicago Self-Taped Auditions
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As an actor, you might be asked to audition for a project when you are not in the town the audition is being held. In this case, you'll need to send in a self-tape. Some might ask, "Can't I just tape my audition on my cell phone?" A cell phone certainly comes in handy for auditioning: it is small enough to fit in your pocket that you can easily pull it out to use as a prop, and it's a great tool to practice recording your auditions so you can see yourself on tape and make appropriate adjustments to your work. Depending on the project for which you are auditioning, it might make sense to use your phone to record and submit your audition as well, as long as you know how to compress your files based on the casting director's requirements. This method could certainly save you a few bucks, and might be practical if your audition is for, say, a local play or a student film.
However, for bigger projects, or for characters and scripts that you wish to have a bit of coaching, it's definitely worth spending a few dollars and having a professional take care of everything for you. You'll have peace of mind knowing the lighting will help make you look your best, the clips will sound great and the footage will be edited to your agent's and/or casting director's specifications.
“Having worked in casting...[Kate] provides a keen eye for what does and doesn’t work on camera. You won’t feel rushed and she makes sure you’ve got it in the can. She is also able to juggle any technical instructions from your agent about the files.”
So to answer the question: yes, you can record your audition on your cell phone, but do so wisely. If you have any doubts about whether or not your cell phone footage will be good enough for the project to which you are submitting, go with your instincts. If you do decide to use your cell phone, have someone do the filming for you, preferably using a cell phone stand, so your footage is not shaky. You will need to have a reader who can read the scene with you, and be sure to shoot against a plain background in a flattering color (black and white are typically not ideal).
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Virtual Showcase
We had a smaller group than expected today (darn cancellations!) but they were fierce, nonetheless! I had a great time with these delightful actors; they came prepared and ready to record. I hope to see much more of them on the audition circuit SOON.
Update (October 22, 2019): Matt Miller’s Virtual Showcase is now known as the Chicago Virtual Showcase. The format is the same - actors prepare a slate, scene or monologue, one to two pieces of commercial copy and a brief interview, which I record and then send to Chicago industry professionals. The Showcase has been going strong for ten years and counting! It’s helped numerous actors find agents and book jobs. Interested? Send us an email at chicagovirtualshowcase@gmail.com.
Q: All of the videos on the site have Vimeo's markings on them (share buttons, names, etc.). What if I don't want any markings on my audition video?
A: There will be NO markings on your audition video. I am just using Vimeo as a means of uploading videos to this site.
Q: What service do you use to send me my audition link?
A: Once I have edited and compressed your audition file, you will receive a link to it via WeTransfer.
Q: After I tape my audition, how long does it take to receive the link?
A: I can usually get the link to you within an hour.
Q: The videos shown on the site do not include the actors' slates. Would I have to get a separate link for my slate?
A: No, your audition will include your slate and all scenes on one video file. Of course, if your agent, casting director, producer, etc. requests files be sent separately, it's no problem!
Q: How many takes can I do of each scene during my taping?
A: As many as you want/need! It is my goal to make sure you leave your taping feeling confident with what we've shot; maybe that happens in two takes, maybe it happens in seven. You are in control.
Q: How long will my self-tape take to shoot?
A: I schedule self-taped auditions in half-hour and hour time slots. Kids/teens generally need an hour, as there is more coaching involved. Adults tend to take half an hour, unless they have several pages of sides and multiple scenes. When you schedule your appointment, I can help you determine how much time you will need.
Q: How far in advance do I need to schedule my audition taping appointment?
A: As soon as you get the request for a self-taped audition, you should schedule a taping appointment. Sometimes, the request comes in at the last minute and is due by the end of the day. THAT'S OK! I'm used to working with actors' schedules, and I know this business can get a little crazy at times. Same day appointments are sometimes available.
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