ALL SELF TAPES ARE DUE 24 HRS BEFORE THE DUE DATE. IF YOU CANNOT AUDITION, PLEASE DECLINE THE AUDITION WITHIN 24 HRS OF RECEIVING THIS EMAIL AND EMAIL ROCKCLIFFES TALENT YOUR REASON FOR DECLINING THE AUDITION.
Key Note:
HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR VIDEO: Click on the Actors Access email link or go to ActorsAccess.com and log in with your login credentials. Under auditions, upload your self-tape directly to Actors Access. Do not email Rockcliffes Talent your self-tape video.
FILM:
o Orientation: FILM in LANDSCAPE mode, not portrait.
o Background: Use a plain, uncluttered background—no furniture, clothing, or items that could distract the viewer.
o Lighting: Use a ring light of 21” or larger if possible. Lighting is critical—ensure you are well-lit from the front, not from behind.
o Shadows: To avoid shadows on the background, stand at least 2 feet away from the wall or backdrop.
o Framing: Frame from the rib cage up, leaving no more than 2” above the head, unless otherwise specified in the self-tape instructions.
o Noise: Ensure the environment is quiet and free of background noise.
Tip: Proper lighting and clean framing can make a significant difference in landing a callback with the director.
WARDROBE: no buzzing patterns, busy stripes, white or neon colours or logos. Do not wear the same colour as your background.
CAMERA ANGLES
o Straight-On Shots: Film straight on with the camera or phone at eye level—not from above or below.
o Profile Shots: Position yourself at a 45-degree angle (left or right) relative to the camera. Do not turn to a full 90-degree profile during your acting.
o Eye Line: Do not look directly into the camera during the acting portion unless specifically instructed. If you’re looking at a phone or computer, cheat your eyeline outward so the camera can capture your eyes and expressions.
o Slate: You may look directly into the camera only during your slate.
Tip: The director needs to see your eyes and facial expressions clearly—this is key for a strong self-tape.
SLATE:
o Your slate should read:
“Hi, I am (Name) with Rockcliffes Talent for the role of (Name of the Role),”
followed by any additional info requested in the casting instructions.
o Only look directly into the camera during the slate.
Embed your name and agency into the video. Refer to the BE IN THE KNOW under the resource tab regarding this point and many other important learning points to increase your chances of landing a callback and/or role.
ROCKCLIFFES TALENT