Virtual auditioning can be an uncomfortable process. At its worst, you are dealing with all the technical aspects, possibly for the first time, in front of casting, directors, and or producers while you hope that they will hire you for a job. At its best, however, virtual auditioning means you are networking with industry professionals while you get to do what you love!
So, how do you avoid audition nerves and focusing on the negative? Make a game plan for your career and for each audition! Make sure you are as comfortable as possible given the strange realities of online auditioning.
First thing’s first: Getting an easy, highly functioning in home set up is CRITICAL. Find a background that is plain and showcases you, not other things. Ensure you are lit in a way that highlights you, especially your eyes. As for sound, your sound has to be clear and an appropriate level of loudness. MAKE CERTAIN YOU HAVE A STRONG INTERNET CONNECTION.
These are all things you can obtain, gather from your home, or purchase and achieve easily and inexpensively. Make no mistake, you will get your money's worth out of them. THIS IS THE ACTORS TOOL KIT for 2020.
Once you have a “Home Studio”, you can focus on the acting.
Here are some easy ways to build your confidence as a performer that will help you calm audition nerves and enable you to approach each audition with ease:
Workout, stretch, or do a breathing exercise before every audition.
Be focused & pay attention to the directions given to you prior to your performance.
Be prepared. Make sure you have made specific choices. Have sides memorized before you go to sleep the night before. Definitely know that first line and or moment to launch you into the scene. Focus on the person with whom you are reading with.
Know your camera angles. If you do not know them, learn them.
Don’t be too big. Keep your performance grounded and truthful.. Don’t push to get to an emotional state if you are not feeling it.
Take improv classes so you are able to play with the copy if asked.
The camera picks up desperation & the feeling that you need this job so don’t be desperate. Just enjoy the fact that you get to act.
Listen and repeat the direction you are given (this is reflective listening).
Understand that direction is a good thing. Don’t panic if they ask you to make a change.
Know your words and how to pronounce everything. We all have access to Google, so there really is no excuse not to have done your homework.
No imaginary eating.
Do not mime. Use a real prop if needed.
If you mess up the copy, finish until they say “cut”. After they say cut you may say… “Let me do another”
Be CONFIDENT! Not arrogant.
Keep your hair out of your face. This goes for both men and women.
Don’t make excuses for anything.
Own your audition, thank them, and go about your day.
About the author: Judy Kain is an actress, author, acting teacher and the owner of Keep It Real Acting Studios. She offers online business, branding, commercial and theatrical classes to actors of all ages.
Judy Kain is an actress known for The Odd Couple, The Fosters and much more!