HOW TO FILM
Self Tapes/Casting Tapes/Weblinks
RULES FOR FILMING
1. The easiest way to self-tape is on a Smart Phone that has a camera, you should always film in landscape mode (image below). Use a Tripod, or prop your phone up so that it remains still. Find a plain, light coloured wall to film against. Any pictures, windows, patterned wallpaper can be very distracting. The room should be well lit (you could use a ring light) with no noise in the background. Don’t sit in front of a window as we will only see your silhouette. Light should be facing towards your face.
2. Do not wear too much make-up. Keep it natural; wear something simple, plain colours, no patterned tops. When choosing your outfit be careful not to wear colours that will make you blend into the background!
3. Shoot from an angle that shows more of you, with your head and chest occupying the centre of the image. Keep your eyes level with the camera.
4. There should be no other people, or pets in the background.
5. Speak clearly & don’t rush! Use your ‘natural accent’, unless another is asked for specific to the role.
6. Do not underscore the tape with music, do not add effects!
7. Never say your age, always mention you are with BIZZY AGENCY for your profile videos, and only if specified by the client for Self Tapes.
SELF TAPES - These are auditions that you film yourself for the client
1. If provided with a link to send to the client directly, save and name your file for uploading to your device ready to send – use your first name and surname, role, then agency (eg. ClareCastle_ angryson_BizzyAgency.mp4) or the clients won’t know who you are! Always upload copy to Tagmin for your booker into 'TAPES' on the profile. You can do this in the app or desktop mode. Instruction is always provided for you.
2. If you are auditioning for a role, get into character! Dress up, find props, have fun!
3. Try to have fun with the tape to stand out and be remembered. It is hugely competitive out there!
CASTING TAPES - These are film links we have on your profile to help promote you 4yrs+
1. After filming, save the file to your device, then upload to Instagram or Youtube - Choose Youtube for privacy if required and select 'unlisted' in the settings, never Private or nobody can see it.
2. Copy the link for the individual video (not your actual youtube or Insta channel) and then paste it into the relevant field on the form at www.bizzykidzagency.com/castingtape and click to send to the agency.
3. Your booker will review it, approve it and link it to your profile - do not add it yourself! If you need film again they will let you know, and we will send a confirmation once completed.
WEBLINKS - These are fields to add links to videos onto your profile - for all under 4's and for older to add skills, accent videos etc.
1. After filming, save the file to your device, then upload to Instagram or Youtube - Choose Youtube for privacy if required and select 'unlisted' in the settings, never Private or nobody can see it.
2. Copy the link for the individual video (not your actual youtube or Insta channel) and then paste it into the 'weblinks' field within the personal details section of the profile. In the field above it pop what it is, simply 'dancing', 'playing', 'scouse accent', 'ballet' etc.
3. All staff receive notification when a tape is uploaded so they will be checked automatically. No need to tell us.
4. Remember to replace these when the artists improves, changes in appearance etc.
Here is a lovely Casting Tape example for little ones:
Here are a few really good examples, of both a child and adult
SELF TAPE. Of course, these are experienced artists (everyone is different!) and they were for specific roles, so ensure you read the brief and film yours to suit! Use your imagination!
Oliver - Intro and talking about his football skills
Caleb - Intro & talking a bit about himself (for a deodorant ad)
Mary - Intro & a few different accent takes for a commercial
