How To Nail A Virtual Audition
As an aspiring actor breaking into the industry requires many casting calls. Understanding the auditioning process is very important, especially since COVID. Many things have changed including how auditions are held. There are many steps to follow as an actor to land a gig, but navigating virtual auditions is the first thing you need to do. Showing up to a casting call prepared is key. Make sure you understand the role they are casting for, as it is crucial to your success at the audition.
Understanding the level of competition that you will face and how to handle yourself in those situations will help you understand how to prepare and let directors know how you are to work with. Let’s dive into casting calls and how to nail a virtual audition.
What Is A Virtual Audition
A virtual audition sounds more complicated than it is, but it’s simply an online audition shot with a video camera or your phone and either pre recorded or held live. Casting directors hold virtual auditions for spec roles in a movie, commercial, or theatrical performance. Since COVID virtual auditions have been a preferred casting technique to keep productions going and put talent to work. They may be casting multiple roles for a single project, but you will be provided a script, sides or direction to be performed on camera. You will need good equipment to shoot your audition footage, but you will get better at this as you grow in your audition experience. All eyes will be on your performance so setting yourself up for a successful virtual audition is very important.
How To Prepare for a Virtual Audition
Being prepared for a virtual audition is the key to your success. There are 3 main tips to take into consideration while getting prepared.
- Make sure you have the proper equipment. Capturing your best during a virtual audition requires a good quality camera and lighting. The most updated Iphones have incredible cameras with lots of features. You do not even need a video camera these days to shoot quality video. You also need lighting equipment that is great for auditions and helps you shine on camera. From ring lights to spotlights there are a dozen lighting kits out there that are fairly easy to set up and use to perform.
- Research your role before auditioning. Understanding your character & role will help you prepare to knock them off their socks. Making sure you are comfortable with the role you audition for is very important. If you are not a fan of horror movies then auditioning for a role in that genre may not be your best fit. Research the role, see if it’s a fit and practice until you feel comfortable.
- Practice Practice Practice: Once you have your equipment, understand your character, you just need to practice until it’s perfect. Rehearsing on camera and watching a playback will help you see how it reads and if you are on the mark. Virtual auditions take a lot of guessing out of the equation. You can easily submit yourself online and see what happens. Make sure you understand the submission details so you can shoot and submit without many issues.
Where Can You Find Virtual Auditions
Virtual auditions are becoming more and more common these days. There are a plethora of ways that you can find casting calls and be able to communicate with casting directors as well as other talent.
- Facebook Groups: Facebook is a great way to look for gigs. Not only is it absolutely free, Facebook gives you the ability to join acting groups in order to find audition opportunities. You can also join groups that post casting opportunities.
- Talent Networks: IMDB, Backstage, etc are great places to connect with leaders in the entertainment industry. When you sign up with these companies you may have to pay for the services, but it opens up opportunities to showcase your talent as an actor. You can find industry contacts as well and represent who you are as a talent by managing your credentials and gaining exposure.
- Castango: Castango is an online web platform that connects companies with the best performing talent nationwide. You have the opportunity to create a personalized profile that will be seen by companies nationwide. Once you sign up you can customize your profile by uploading your best headshots, input your biography, statistics and past work experience. Companies have the ability to access the talent database and find aspiring actors just like you. Before you know it you will have casting directors reaching out to you for their next virtual audition. What sets Castango apart from the rest is that there is a streamlined payment process making it easier for the talent to get paid within 7 days or less.
Nailing a virtual audition can seem overwhelming at first, but once you get comfortable using the technology, working on camera you will be ready for your big shot. Keep in mind that you can be a part of as many web platforms as you wish.
The more you get your face and name out there the more casting directors will remember you. Always attend virtual auditions with a great attitude. There is going to be competition everywhere you go so you must keep a strong mindset. Be confident in your talent and put your best foot forward. You will gain so much experience every time you have a virtual audition and become more and more comfortable with the process. Now that you understand what a virtual audition entails you can start looking for casting callsin your area and be ready to nail your first virtual audition. Good luck!
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