For the reason that dawning of the brand new auditioning period (thanks Covid-19!), actors have been left extra to their very own units than ever. Many actors are left questioning, “What precisely are the foundations of a self tape audition?” One space the place the trade seems divided is using props. Some actors depend on them too closely. Different actors, terrified they’ll distract from their efficiency, by no means use them. In different circumstances, there are the actors who use them however solely commit midway.
Props is usually a useful gizmo in self tapes, however there are positively pitfalls to keep away from. Solely use a prop when it contributes to your truthfulness and connection, and by no means as a gimmick in an try to impress the casting director!
Widespread Audition Errors Actors Make When Utilizing Props
After watching actually tons of of self tapes a month for years, it’s truthful to say that we’ve seen all of it. One of many largest classes in What I realized Watching 900+ Self Tapes is how shortly decisions round props can kill an awesome audition tape. Listed below are the primary errors we see. Take heed, actors!
Overusing Props or Solely Half Committing
Actors who select to make use of props usually get trapped within the frequent pitfall of overusing or undercommitting. For example, an actor introduces a prop after which feels the necessity to justify it, so that they’re continually trying down writing in a pocket book that simply disconnects their eyeline, takes the ability out of the scene, and leaves the viewers questioning “What’s so fascinating down there?”
Then again, many actors determine to make use of a prop however solely half commit. Consequently, they overlook about it 30 seconds into the scene. Then, they’re left holding a wine glass filled with water that looks like an afterthought and makes the viewers query “Why are they holding that?” as an alternative of pondering “Wow, what a efficiency!”
Why Props Can Distract Casting Administrators
Props can be extremely distracting. Normally, props will detract out of your audition in the event that they dominate the scene. In the event that they block your face or are continually centred within the body, they’ll steal focus from the efficiency. This inadvertently focuses the casting director away out of your facial reactions, ideas and emotional shifts.
A phrase of warning: don’t ever use faux weapons in a self tape (or actual) audition! It’s simply bizarre and sort of scary.
By no means use a prop since you assume it’d ‘impress’ a casting director. Casting administrators wish to see grounded and truthful performances, not how effectively you possibly can supply a bouquet of flowers!
Ought to I Mime Consuming, Consuming or Smoking in a Self Tape?
The issue with miming actions is that it usually feels offputting and unnatural on display screen. If the script completely calls so that you can eat, drink, or smoke, take into consideration how one can incorporate these actions within the least distracting (and gross) manner doable. This could be taking one chew of a sandwich the place the script requires it, then maintaining it out of body the remainder of the shot. And at all times keep in mind what your mum mentioned: “Chew together with your mouth closed!”
When Ought to You Use Props in a Self Tape Audition?
To place it merely, you must use props in a self tape audition when it helps you create a extra grounded and plausible world for the character. In different phrases, the prop must be an extension of the character slightly than a distraction.
Examples of Self Tape Auditions That Use Props
Props could be a good way to floor a personality’s behaviour. Discover how at 0:15 David Coronswet takes a sip of water, then cleans his glasses and places them in a coat pocket.
These behaviours reveal a few of the internal psychology and life nonverbally. It helps floor the tape on this planet of the scene. Moreover, it reveals how nonchalant David’s character is feeling proper on the prime of the interplay. The water then disappears from body and the glasses keep within the pocket, and we’re capable of focus absolutely on the appearing.
A effectively chosen prop also can create a extra pure and life like alternate. Watch Anna Kendrick’s use of the cellphone in her Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World audition tape.
Her use of an actual cellphone offers rapid context to the scene. Moreover, it allows her to naturally work together together with her personal physique and the area together with her free hand. It additionally lends an effortlessness that fully aligns with the character, who’s somebody very used to gossiping on the cellphone!
All of those work in Kendrick’s favour, however an important factor to recollect is that the cellphone didn’t land this position, the efficiency did! When you love these movies, we even have an article on Prime 10 Well-known Auditions with extra.
Sensible Steps for Utilizing Props in Self Tape Auditions
We’ve coated what to keep away from and what works when utilizing props in a self tape. Now let’s lay out some sensible suggestions for efficient prop use.
- Maintain it easy: Use on a regular basis objects. For instance, use an actual espresso mug as an alternative of miming one. If doable, select a minimalistic merchandise in impartial colors as an alternative of one thing distracting with textual content or logos.
- Be certain it serves the story: Maintain prop use contained to what elevates the efficiency and aligns with the truth of the scene.
- Commit absolutely: Deal with the prop as an built-in a part of your efficiency. Be certain to observe with it so it feels fully pure and also you’re utilizing it with intention.
- Take a look at your takes: Report a model with the prop, and one with out. This mimics what casting administrators would have you ever do within the room.
- Keep away from dangerous objects: Don’t use faux weapons or props that really feel unsafe or bizarre.
Following these easy steps will make sure that you make the proper alternative on prop use. Do not forget that a very good prop is one which enhances your audition.
Do You Actually Want Props to E book Roles?
You by no means have to make use of props in self tapes. Many, many profitable actors have auditioned with out props and booked the position. Casting administrators aren’t inherently impressed by props. As a substitute, they’re impressed by truthful and grounded performances. Generally, props are part of these performances, however usually they’re not.
Finally, it’s an actor’s determination whether or not or to not use props of their self tapes. Keep away from utilizing a prop from a superficial motivation to “get it proper” or impress. As a substitute, solely use a prop if it helps you keep truthful and linked within the scene. Lastly, if this has gotten you excited to hone your audition craft, come be part of our StageMilk Scene Membership!
