Audition Tips from Casting Director Brian Beegle
Essential Audition Tips from Casting Director Brian Beegle
At Sans Secret, we’re committed to giving our talent the best tools for success. Recently, we had an insightful meeting with Atlanta casting director Brian Beegle (We Are Marshall, One Missed Call) and Casting Networks. Here’s a breakdown of his most valuable tips for auditioning, especially in self-tapes.
1. Follow Directions (Most Important!)
When it comes to auditions, following directions matters more than perfect line delivery. Casting directors like Brian want to see that you can take instruction and adapt accordingly. Whether it’s stage directions, specific scene notes, or character traits, showing you can follow directions indicates you’re professional and easy to work with.
Tip: Always prioritize the instructions provided and incorporate them into your performance. It’s better to follow directions closely than to give an impressive but inaccurate performance.
2. Submit Early
Submitting your self-tapes early demonstrates professionalism and shows casting directors that you’re reliable. Waiting until the last minute can lead to technical issues or missed opportunities.
Tip: Plan your preparation and filming time in advance to ensure you can submit your audition ahead of the deadline.
3. Confirm or Decline Auditions
Casting directors track your audition responses, so leaving them “pending” reflects poorly on you. Either accept or decline auditions promptly to show respect for their time and your commitment.
Tip: Be prompt in responding to audition requests, and don’t leave casting teams guessing.
4. Self-Tape Framing & Lighting
Proper framing and lighting are essential in self-tapes. Ensure there’s no more than a hand’s width of headroom above your head, and always use good lighting that complements your skin tone and hair color. Darker tones should use a lighter background to stand out.
Tip: Invest in simple, effective lighting and a clean, neutral backdrop to ensure you look your best on camera.
5. Always Have a Reader
A reader is vital to help your performance feel authentic and natural. If you don’t have someone physically present, use Zoom or FaceTime.
Tip: A strong reader enhances your audition by giving you real-time reactions. I’m happy to help via Zoom or FaceTime if needed!
6. Don’t Over-rehearse
Preparation is key, but over-rehearsing can make your performance feel forced. Auditions should feel natural, so leave room for spontaneity in your delivery.
Tip: Rehearse enough to feel prepared, but keep your performance fresh and in the moment.
7. Respect Deadlines
Asking for extensions on the day of the deadline is unprofessional and reflects poorly on you. Casting directors are on tight schedules, and respect for their deadlines is essential.
Tip: Submit your self-tapes on time to build a reputation as someone who is easy to work with.
8. Keep Pre-Scene Moments Under 3 Seconds
Having a brief moment before jumping into the scene can help set the tone, but keep it short. Anything over 3 seconds can feel like wasted time.
Tip: Take a quick beat before the scene starts, but get into the action quickly.
9. Practice with Props (Commercials)
If your scene involves a prop, practice with it to make your movements feel natural, but don’t film with it unless instructed. This ensures your performance remains fluid without unnecessary distractions.
Tip: Run through the action with the prop off-camera, but keep it out of the final take unless allowed.
10. Commercial vs. TV/Film Auditions
For commercials, the product is the star. Keep your social media neutral, as casting teams often look for actors without strong political opinions. For TV/Film, focus on being the best actor who follows directions well.
Tip: Adapt your approach depending on whether you're auditioning for a commercial or a TV/film role. Be versatile!
Final Thoughts
Every audition is a chance to build a relationship with casting directors. Even if you don’t land the role, they will remember you for future projects, so always put your best foot forward.
We’ll be sharing more tips soon after our meeting with Ken Lazer, an NYC casting director specializing in commercial and TV castings.
Stay tuned and feel free to reach out with questions!