4 Mistakes That Talent Make In Self-Tape Auditions (And How to Fix Them)
Remote casting has opened the door to incredible opportunities for talent everywhere. But self tape auditions come with their own learning curve, which can lead to mistakes. The good news? Most mistakes we see at Aura Casting are very fixable.
After reviewing countless self tapes, we’ve noticed a few common issues that pop up again and again. If you can avoid these, you’re already ahead of the game. Here are the top four self tape mistakes, and how to get them right:
1. Poor Lighting and Framing
This one is an easy mistake to make. You don’t need a professional studio set up, but we do need to see you clearly.
Common issues:
Overhead lighting creating harsh shadows
Sitting in front of a bright window
Camera angled too high or too low, putting too much space above your head or cutting it off
How to fix it:
Face a window or use a soft light at eye level
Keep the camera at eye level
Frame from mid chest (or, as we like to call it, medium close up) to just above your head
Choose a simple, neutral background. You can purchase a self tape backdrop (the ideal choice for the long term) or use a blank, non distracting wall in your home. Try to stick to colors like greys, whites or that self tape blue we all know and love.
2. Bad Audio
Casting can forgive slightly imperfect set ups. But poor audio? Much harder.
Common issues:
Background noise (outside traffic, talking roommates, ceiling fans)
Echoey rooms
Speaking too quietly or being too far from the camera
How to fix it:
Record in a quiet, soft furnished room
Turn off anything in your space that could be causing distracted noise (ceiling fans, humidifiers) and if you live with people, ask them to keep the noise down while you tape
Do a quick test run before you record your self tape and listen to the audio to ensure it sounds good
Buy a lavalier microphone that can connect to your phone or camera that you can wear during self tapes to capture clear audio
3. Overproducing the Performance
This one surprises some. Bigger isn’t always better in self tapes.
Common issues:
Overly theatrical gestures or going off script
Too many props or incorrect use of props
Heavy cutting around self tape
Multiple angles or “creative” cuts/edits
How to fix it:
Keep the camera still
Minimize use of props in an audition
Focus on authenticity and connection to yourself, the character and the material
Submit your takes in unedited cuts unless instructed to do otherwise
4. Ignoring the Instructions
This is one of the fastest ways to turn castings attention away, regardless of talent.
Common issues:
Wrong slate format (not answering all the questions we ask you, not including a slate, etc)
Submitting late
Sending the wrong file type (MOV, MP4, etc) or the wrong audition
Adding extra takes when only one was requested, or not enough takes if we ask for more than one
Not submitting all of the photos requested
How to fix it:
Read the instructions and deadlines carefully (and then read them again)
Follow them exactly
Ask questions before the deadline if something’s unclear
Double check that you are submitting the correct audition file
Remember, self tape auditions aren’t about being perfect. They’re about being prepared, clear and authentic. When you remove technical and avoidable distractions, casting can focus on what really matters: you and your performance.
Are you a producer that has a project coming up in need of remote casting? Get in touch with us to discuss your casting needs and learn how our remote casting process can support your production from start to finish.
