Self-Tape Guide

How to Give Yourself the Best Chance of Success

Being asked to submit a self-tape is exciting—it means a casting director has shortlisted you and would like to see more.

The quality of your self-tape can make a huge difference, so it’s worth taking a little extra time to prepare.

Read the Brief Carefully

Every casting is different.

Before you start filming, read the email and the casting instructions carefully.

Some clients ask for:

• A slate only.
• A slate and one scene.
• A slate and two scenes.
• An introduction.
• Questions to answer.
• A specific outfit.
• A particular filming style.

Always follow the client’s instructions exactly.

What is a Slate?

A slate is a short introduction recorded before your performance.

It helps the casting director identify you before watching your audition.

A typical Bizzy Agency slate includes:

• Your name.
• Your location.
• That you are represented by Bizzy Agency.

For example:

“Hello, I’m Emily Jones, I’m based in Manchester and I’m represented by Bizzy Agency.”

Keep it natural, friendly and confident.

Important

Please say Bizzy Agency, not BizzyKidz.

Our agency has traded as Bizzy Agency since 2019.

Save Time

One useful tip is to have a standard slate already recorded.

Then, whenever a self-tape request arrives, you may only need to film the acting scene.

However…

Always check the brief first.

Some clients ask for additional information in the slate, for example:

• Your height.
• Your age (if specifically requested).
• A favourite hobby.
• Your favourite holiday.
• Or another short question.

If the brief asks for something different, always follow the client’s instructions.

The Scene

The scene is the acting performance requested by the client.

Sometimes you’ll receive:

• A script.
• A scenario.
• Improvisation instructions.

This is your opportunity to bring the character to life.

Make It Real

Whenever possible, use real props and realistic surroundings.

For example:

If the character is:

• Eating an ice cream…
• Use a real ice cream.
• Sitting in a car…
• Film inside a parked car if it is safe to do so.
• Wearing a hat…
• Wear the hat.
• Carrying a school bag…
• Use a real school bag.

Small details help casting directors imagine you in the role.

Avoid pretending to use objects if you can easily use the real thing.

Costume

You don’t need expensive costumes.

However, wearing clothing that suggests the character can help.

For example:

• School uniform style.
• Sportswear.
• Smart business clothing.
• Casual everyday clothing.

Choose simple clothing that supports the character without becoming a distraction.

Landscape or Portrait?

Unless the client specifically asks otherwise, always film in landscape (horizontal).

Portrait should only be used if the casting brief specifically requests it.

Lighting

Film with the light facing you.

Avoid:

• Bright windows behind you.
• Strong shadows across your face.
• Dark rooms.

Natural daylight or a ring light usually works best.

Sound

Speak clearly.

Choose a quiet room with as little background noise as possible.

Never add background music unless specified by the client.

Background

A plain wall is ideal.

Avoid clutter or distracting objects.

Keep It Natural

Casting directors want believable performances.

Don’t over-act.

Listen carefully.

React naturally.

Focus on telling the story rather than trying to impress.

Before You Upload

✔ Read the instructions again.

✔ Check you’ve filmed in landscape (unless told otherwise).

✔ Watch your tape before uploading.

✔ Make sure you can be clearly seen and heard.

✔ Upload before the deadline.

Never leave uploads until the last minute.

Technical problems can happen.

Remember

A self-tape isn’t about producing a Hollywood film.

Casting directors are looking at you.

A clear, natural, believable performance will almost always beat an over-produced video.

Good luck!